UAE's Minister Omar Al Olama Discusses Proactive AI Regulation At BRIDGE Summit 2025

The BRIDGE Summit 2025, a major media event in Abu Dhabi, hosted a session titled "Order and Oversight in a World Run by Code." Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, engaged in a dialogue with Ali Aslan, an esteemed international moderator and journalist. The discussion focused on the transformative impact of AI on the global media landscape.

Al Olama highlighted that embracing artificial intelligence is crucial for future success. He warned against resisting technological change due to its inherent risks. He cited Netflix's acquisition of Warner Brothers as an example of how industry leaders are adapting their strategies to remain competitive in an AI-driven world.

AI presents significant opportunities for the media and digital content sectors. It enhances data analysis, question processing, and content generation. However, challenges exist that necessitate improved integration between humans and machines to maintain production quality. Al Olama noted that while AI can produce music, it has not yet surpassed human creativity.

He emphasised the UAE's proactive approach to AI policy development under its leadership's vision. This involves fostering cooperation between government and private sectors to create frameworks for responsible AI development and management. The UAE builds on its extensive experience in managing technological transformations.

Al Olama predicted that AI will reshape workforce skills requirements. A new generation of professionals with diverse expertise will emerge. This positions UAE companies to compete globally and lead future international markets. He stressed the importance of instilling cultural understanding within AI tools to preserve intellectual heritage.

The session "Order and Oversight in a World Run by Code" was part of over 300 sessions at the BRIDGE Summit 2025. This inaugural event is scheduled from 8–10 December 2025 at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi, reflecting the summit's scale and ambition.

Al Olama stated that technologically enabled companies will absorb those lacking technology integration. He recalled how cinema companies once viewed internet streaming as temporary but now face dominance by streaming giants.

He added that enhancing conscious intervention and model testing ensures responsible technology use. This approach helps integrate societal values into AI tools while preserving cultural knowledge.

With inputs from WAM