AI leaders gather in Dubai to promote gospel of technology

World leaders, ministers and technology executives are gathering at GITEX Global 2025 to share a unified vision of a future powered by cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI), the twin pillars of digital resilience and sustainable growth.

- BOONSONG LIPIMAS PHUSADEE ARUNMAS

Speaking at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) for the opening ceremony of the 45th edition of the forum on Oct 13, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Minister of Economy, described AI as a matter of national sovereignty.

“Just as nations invest in defence, we must also invest in Al,” he said.

Non-oil sectors now contribute 77.3% of Emirati GDP, up from 69% five years ago, with a goal of 80% by 2030.

“Digital infrastructure and AI are the backbone of productivity,’ said Mr Al Marri.

The UAE has embedded AI across government, including a new Al-powered trademark registration system that reduces approval time from days to milliseconds.

He said talent is “the oil of the new economy,” highlighting initiatives such as the Mohamed bin Zayed University of AI, and long-term visas for digital professionals.

“We are not great at building walls; we are great at building bridges. Use the UAE as your bridge — we connect the world,” said Mr Al Marri.