From Police Inspections to Stroke Diagnosis, AI Transforms Dubai – News Roundup
This news roundup tracks the latest AI trends and developments across the the UAE (Dubai), Saudi Arabia (Riyadh) and Qatar (Doha).
Here’s your AI in the Gulf news roundup for the first week of November. As part of our mission to keep you in the know, we’re bringing you the most intriguing AI developments in the Gulf. These are insights you won’t want to miss.
Note: Only PAID subscribers get our news analysis at the end of these roundups.
🇦🇪 UAE
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Microsoft’s Vice Chair Team Up on AI and Green Tech
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sat down with Microsoft’s Vice Chair Brad Smith to hash out strategic collaborations aimed at pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence in clean energy and sustainability. They’re eyeing how AI can supercharge energy efficiency and slash carbon emissions. The meetup spotlighted partnerships between Microsoft, ADNOC, Masdar, and G42, all geared toward leveraging Microsoft’s AI prowess to boost the UAE’s green tech goals and expand its AI ecosystem across various sectors. (Al-Bayan,4 November)
Health Sector Embraces AI for Precision Surgeries and Cardiac Procedures
At a recent medical conference, the UAE’s health sector showcased its adoption of AI in precision surgeries, cardiac procedures, diagnostics, and intensive care. They’re not just talking the talk—AI-assisted robotic surgeries for children, including cardiac catheterizations and thoracic surgeries, are already in play. (Al-Ittihad, 3 November)
Dubai Crown Prince and Google’s Top Exec Discuss Digital Transformation and AI Integration
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Muhammad Al Maktoum recently huddled with Alphabet and Google President and Chief Investment Officer Ruth Porat to explore how Google can drive Dubai’s digital transformation and AI integration. Sheikh Hamdan reaffirmed Dubai’s ambition to be a global tech and digital innovation hub, highlighting major strides in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and AI-focused government initiatives. They also dove into Google’s “AI Opportunities” initiative—the largest in the MENA region—aiming to equip 500,000 individuals with AI skills and boost local research. (Al-Ittihad, 1 November)
Abu Dhabi to Host Open Source AI Summit Later this Month
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi announced the first-ever Open Source AI Summit, set for 26-27 November. Heavy hitters like Meta, Google DeepMind, Oxford University, and Tsinghua University are on the guest list, along with local leaders like the Inception Institute. The summit will tackle the challenges and opportunities in open-source AI, focusing on accessibility, safety, ethics, governance, computational power, and sustainability. TII officials say the summit aims to foster inclusive and ethical AI development, providing a platform for global collaboration on transparent and resilient AI systems. (Al-Ittihad, 31 October)
International Energy Conference to Spotlight AI’s Role in Energy Transition
The UAE is gearing up to host the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC 2024), a massive energy event. AI is set to take center stage, emphasizing its critical role in facilitating the energy transition. Key features include ADNOC’s inaugural “AI for Future Energy” exhibition, showcasing AI’s potential to revolutionize the energy value chain. ADIPEC 2024 will also host the event across 16 halls, with over 2,200 exhibitors from various energy sectors and 30 national pavilions, highlighting innovations shaping the future of global energy. (Al-Khaleej, 1 November)
Abu Dhabi Deputy Ruler and Blackstone CEO Discuss AI in Global Investment Strategies
Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor, took to social media platform X to share insights from his discussion with Stephen Schwarzman, CEO and co-founder of Blackstone. They see eye to eye on the importance of weaving AI into global investment strategies. Both expressed enthusiasm for collaborating on AI-driven opportunities that could redefine industry standards and bolster global economic frameworks. (Al-Khaleej, 31 October)
AI Slashes Acute Stroke Diagnosis Time to Seconds
The Emirates Neurology Society confirmed that the UAE is among the first countries to implement AI for the rapid diagnosis of acute strokes, cutting down the process to just five seconds. By leveraging an advanced system that accurately analyzes CT scans, color images, and angiograms, this technology significantly accelerates treatment, reducing diagnosis time from up to an hour to mere seconds. That means quicker, more accurate diagnoses and timely, appropriate treatment. (Al-Bayan, 31 October)
Educators Discuss AI Integration into Teaching
Over 300 educators, policymakers, and thought leaders from the UAE and the Arab region gathered in Ras al-Khaimah under the theme "Exploring Teaching and Assessment in the Age of Artificial Intelligence." They delved into AI's profound impact on transforming education, focusing on integrating AI into teaching methods and international assessments. (Al-Bayan, 27 October)
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Visits AI Research Program in Singapore
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan made a stop at the Artificial Intelligence Research Program in Singapore, honing in on enhancing AI capabilities. He met with the program's executive team to discuss support for research institutions and startups, along with initiatives aimed at developing local talent in the AI sector. (Al-Ittihad, 30 October)
UAE Launches AI-Driven Language Model Targeting Hindi
The Mohamed bin Zayed University for Artificial Intelligence, the world's first research university for graduate studies in AI, has launched "Nanda," a large, open-source language model developed specifically for Hindi. Created in collaboration with Inception, a subsidiary of the G42 Group, and Cerebras Systems, Nanda aims to serve over half a billion Hindi speakers. With 10 billion parameters, it offers cognitive capabilities that outshine other models of its kind. (Al-Khaleej, 31 October)
Dubai Police to Deploy AI in Inspection Operations
Colonel Salah Khalifa Al Mazrouei, Director of the K9 Security Inspection Department at Dubai Police, announced plans to integrate AI into inspection operations and open new checkpoints throughout Dubai. (Al-Bayan, 27 October)
Dubai Police Establish Digital Transformation and AI Council
The Dubai Police have set up the "Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence Council" to accelerate digital transformation within the force and boost global competitiveness. The council aligns with Dubai's digital strategy and the UAE's AI strategy for Centennial 2071. Goals include adopting advanced technologies, improving the digital landscape, and enhancing public safety through innovative cybersecurity—ultimately creating a safe, connected digital city. (Al-Bayan, 30 October)
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia
Official Highlights AI's Role in Enhancing Quality of Life
During the Future Investment Initiative's eighth edition, Khalid Al-Bakr, CEO of the Quality of Life Program, emphasized AI's crucial role in enhancing quality of life in Saudi Arabia, positioning it as a key pillar of Vision 2030. He highlighted strategic partnerships, including collaboration with the UN Development Program, aimed at leveraging modern technologies to improve services and citizen welfare. Al-Bakr noted that the initiative's discussions on AI and sustainability reflect Saudi Arabia's significant role in the global economy. (Okaz, 31 October)
Minister of Economy Stresses Saudi Arabia's Ambitions to Become an AI Leader
Minister of Economy Faisal Al-Ibrahim spotlighted Saudi Arabia's rise as the go-to destination for investment and future development. He pointed out the kingdom's pioneering achievements in solar and wind energy and efforts to strengthen global supply chains. Al-Ibrahim reported growth in the non-oil sectors—a 20% increase since the launch of Vision 2030—and a 70% rise in private investments, contributing to 53% of the GDP. He emphasized Saudi Arabia's ambition to become a leader in AI, committing to solutions for economic integration and global connectivity, while reiterating the kingdom's historical role in supporting global stability and tackling challenges head-on. (Okaz, 31 October)
Conference Explores AI's Role in Road Safety and Sustainable Transport
Minister of Transport and Logistics Saleh Al-Jaser kicked off the Road Safety and Sustainability Conference, set to discuss over 130 scientific papers and showcase more than 27 innovations and technologies. The conference aims to tackle innovative transport solutions and government policies focused on reducing emissions and enhancing green infrastructure for road safety. AI and intelligent transport systems are front and center in promoting sustainable mobility. The accompanying exhibition showcases the latest in AI, smart transport systems, and sustainable transport. (Okaz, 3 November)
AI to Play a Crucial Role in Riyadh's Development
Ahmad Al-Rasheed, Chairman of the Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority, stated that Riyadh is on track to become one of the world's top 10 cities. He highlighted rapid growth in Saudi Arabia's non-oil sectors, which have expanded by 7%, crediting Vision 2030's transformative effects on the exhibitions and conferences sector. He emphasized the significance of hosting Expo 2030 as a unifying global event and stressed that AI will play a crucial role in Riyadh's development, enhancing urban adaptation and transforming the workforce. (Saudi Gazette, 1 November)
Minister of Commerce Discusses AI Investment Opportunities with Global Companies
During the fifth Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, Minister of Commerce Majid Abdallah Al-Qasabi engaged with representatives from several global companies to discuss advancements in AI. The talks focused on investment opportunities in AI, software and application development in collaboration with Saudi startups, and establishing business accelerators and incubators to foster innovation. The minister highlighted the importance of opening specialized training centers and enhancing collaboration in trade, media, and research, as well as promoting student engagement and university partnerships to strengthen Saudi Arabia's AI ecosystem. (Al-Madinah, 28 October)
🇶🇦 Qatar
Meeting Highlights AI's Role in Tackling 21st Century Challenges
At the Arab Scientists Association's annual meeting at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Sheikha Moza bint Naser underscored the role of technology—especially AI—in addressing 21st-century challenges. The event featured discussions on AI, biotechnology, and cybersecurity, and launched a digital platform for collaborative research and professional development. (Al-Watan, 4 November)
Qatar University to Host AI Week to Boost Students' Skills
Qatar University is set to host the third edition of "Artificial Intelligence Week 2024" on November 12, aiming to showcase the latest innovations in AI—a key driver for sustainable development in Qatar and globally. The event will feature workshops, specialized panel discussions, and an exhibition for startups to present their AI applications. A university official emphasized that this week offers students a golden opportunity to enhance their skills in modern AI technologies, prepping them for rapid global advancements and expanding their scientific horizons. (Al-Watan, 3 November)
Qatar and Vietnam Discuss Strengthening AI Cooperation
Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Qatar's Minister of Communications, Muhammad bin Ali Al Manni', to bolster cooperation in AI and technology sectors. They emphasized the importance of collaboration in technology and innovation. Al Manni' also met with Vietnam's Minister of Information and Communications, Nguyen Manh Hung, to discuss joint efforts in digital transformation and AI, including opportunities for shared investment in promising tech projects to enhance digital development in both countries. (Al-Rayah, 2 November)
Qatar to Launch National AI Strategy at MENA AI Summit
The Global AI Summit for the Middle East and North Africa, slated for December 10-11 in Doha, is expected to draw over 2,000 participants under the theme "Putting Humanity at the Center of AI Development." The summit will explore key topics like human-AI interaction, AI-driven innovation, and responsible AI governance. It aims to launch the new National AI Strategy 2024 and will feature over 100 expert speakers across ten specialized fields, focusing particularly on smart health and life-saving AI applications. The summit also provides a unique platform for startups and digital companies to mingle with global AI industry leaders, fostering strategic partnerships that will shape the future of AI in the region—all in line with Qatar's National Vision 2030. (Al-Rayah, 27 October)
Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn: Connect with us for regular updates, behind-the-scenes snippets, and all the global savvy you crave.
🇰🇼 Kuwait
Ten Kuwaitis Head to Silicon Valley for AI Innovation Program
The Sabah Al-Ahmad Center for Talent and Creativity announced that 10 Kuwaiti innovators will participate in an AI innovation program in Silicon Valley from November 18 to 27. The program aims to enhance participants' innovation skills and provide insights into the latest AI trends. (Al-Ra'y, 28 October)
🇴🇲 Oman
Media Specialists Get Trained Up on AI Skills
Oman Telecommunications launched a two-day initiative called "Innovative Media," aiming to beef up media skills in AI for 200 professionals from various sectors. The program included workshops and discussions on leveraging AI to enhance media production, content creation, and data analysis. Participants noted that these sessions would elevate their professional practices and technical capabilities, enabling them to deliver more creative and impactful content. (Al-Shabibah, 28 October)
🇧🇭 Bahrain
Attorney General Calls for Unified AI Advisory Law Within GCC
Attorney General Ali bin Fadl Al-Buainain emphasized the importance of integrating AI in modernizing public prosecution tools. He proposed establishing a unified advisory law on AI across GCC member states, outlining guidelines for its technical use in judicial applications. This came during a meeting of GCC Attorneys General, which also discussed enhancing cooperation, executing judicial requests, and creating an electronic platform for judicial collaboration among GCC states. (Al-Ayyam, 30 October)
Legislators Propose Using AI to Enhance Diplomatic Work
Legislators proposed leveraging AI to boost diplomatic efforts and develop decision-support systems for real-time data analysis and crisis monitoring. They emphasized AI's potential to help diplomats adapt to rapid geopolitical changes, enabling timely decision-making and crisis prevention. The proposal includes creating AI-driven systems for early warning alerts and improving information exchange between diplomatic missions and foreign ministries. (Al-Ayyam, 25 October)
We hope you enjoyed this roundup make sure you share and subscribe for more. Remember, we are human and this work takes time to produce. A paid subscription will help us keep doing this work.