TRENDS Cultural Salon Highlights AI's Role In Legal Applications At ADIBF 2025 Workshop

At the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, TRENDS Research and Advisory organised a workshop titled "Artificial Intelligence and Its Legal Applications." This event, in partnership with Abu Dhabi University’s College of Law and the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals, attracted researchers, academics, and legal-technology experts. Dr Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, emphasised the importance of examining the legal aspects of new technologies.

Dr Abdullah Ghanem Al-Nasser, a legal advisor and Head of the Artificial Intelligence Team at the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals, addressed legislative and ethical challenges posed by AI in judicial processes. He highlighted AI's role in data analysis and document drafting but stressed that human judgement remains crucial for justice. A real-life case involving an AI-assisted bail request demonstrated how AI can complement expert legal reasoning.

The workshop underscored the necessity of responsibly integrating AI into judicial systems through informed discussions. Dr Al-Ali noted that while AI is essential for modernising these systems, it must be implemented carefully. The session was moderated by researcher Eissa Al-Mannaei and featured engaging discussions on various topics related to AI's impact on law.

Audience members actively participated by asking questions about judicial accountability, ethical standards, and the readiness of Arab legal systems to adopt AI. There was consensus on updating legislative frameworks to integrate AI with human insight effectively. This approach aims to ensure sustainable and efficient justice delivery.

Alongside this workshop, the TRENDS Youth Council hosted a session titled "Emirati Youth: Between Language and Books" in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s Specialised Libraries Department. This session explored Arabic's role as an identity marker amid digital transformation and cultural shifts.

Young researchers and cultural activists discussed how youth engagement with literature is evolving. They addressed declining traditional reading habits while balancing heritage preservation with modern knowledge tools. Arabic was highlighted as more than just a language; it serves as a cultural bridge connecting generations.

Promoting Arabic Culture

Speakers called for increased support for Arabic digital content, youth-focused publications, and integrating Arabic into modern technologies. Libraries were identified as cultural hubs that blend technology, reflection, and creativity to attract younger audiences. The session sparked lively discussions among students and youth advocates.

Participants concluded by advocating collaboration between youth and institutions to foster pride in language and heritage while equipping them to engage globally. They praised TRENDS and its Youth Council for providing a platform to voice youth perspectives, shaping culturally rooted yet forward-looking discourse.

The sessions at the book fair highlighted critical issues surrounding AI's role in law and the significance of preserving cultural identity through language. These discussions emphasised collaboration between technology experts, legal professionals, youth advocates, and cultural institutions to navigate these evolving landscapes effectively.

With inputs from WAM