Harvard organises international conference on AI transformative potential, challenges in Dubai

Dubai [UAE], December 14: The Digital Data Design Institute at Harvard, in collaboration with the Harvard Business School Club of the GCC, has hosted its inaugural International AI Conference at the Museum of the Future in Dubai. The event convened a distinguished gathering of global leaders, academics, and innovators to delve into the multifaceted challenges and explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). With a keen focus on learning, adoption, and transformative strategies, the conference highlighted the pivotal role of AI in shaping the future of industries, organizations, and societies.
In a fireside chat at the event, Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, reflected on the UAE's transformative journey. "The focus of our founding fathers has always been on people-educating them, building the right infrastructure, and ensuring a sustainable balance between physical and human development. Today, we continue that legacy by leveraging AI to improve the lives of every person in this room and every future generation," he remarked.
Al Olama explained the UAE's three-tiered AI strategy, which began with foundational investments in infrastructure, regulations, and government capabilities. In recent years, the nation has deployed AI across critical sectors, including energy, education, health, and cyber security, with over 147 government applications already implemented. By 2031, the UAE aims to solidify its position as a global leader in AI, with a focus on measurable impact and quality-of-life enhancements.
He stressed the importance of using AI in non-controversial manners and sectors, "I believe we do not need to be an AI-first country. We are focused on being quality-of-life first. AI should not be a disruptive force; it should seamlessly integrate into our lives to make them better. For example, UAE airports now use AI-powered facial recognition to ensure fast and efficient immigration processes, even during the busiest travel seasons. This isn't technology in your face-it's technology working quietly and effectively to improve your experience," he noted.
Talking about key sectors for AI implementation, Al Olama emphasised the role of AI in reshaping infrastructure development. Over the past 50 years, significant resources have been allocated to building roads, bridges, and tunnels. Now, AI is enabling savings of 5-25% on large-scale projects while enhancing safety, efficiency, and speed. "Whether it's optimising traffic flows through AI-powered systems or ensuring safety in billion-dollar projects, AI is helping us build smarter, faster, and more sustainably," he stated.
Looking ahead, Al Olama acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding AI's evolution but remained optimistic about its potential to amplify human creativity and societal progress. "What amazes me is how AI allows people to express themselves in ways they never could before. A year ago, no one would have predicted that AI could compose music or generate art at this level. It's a powerful reminder that those who remain agile and resilient will thrive in the age of AI," he said.
The UAE's strategy reflects a commitment to striking the right balance-leveraging AI to solve complex societal challenges while safeguarding ethical considerations. As Al Olama concluded, "AI is not just a tool for progress; it is a companion for humanity's future, and we must use it responsibly to ensure a brighter tomorrow for all."
The conference, themed AI Elevate: From Readiness to Exponential Growth, saw the keynote address by Karim Lakhani, Dorothy & Michael Hintze Professor of Business Administration at the Harvard Business School, Co-founder and Chair of the Digital Data Design Institute at Harvard (D^3). He announced the launch of an innovative AI-powered conference bot, designed to retain and archive dialogue from the conference, as well as the groundbreaking AI-native online course. The course focuses on AI adoption and is crafted "by AI, for AI.