ABU DHABI – The UAE Cabinet, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the country’s official stance on artificial intelligence (AI) policy at an international level. The policy, developed collaboratively by the Office of the Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology and the Office of the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, marks a strategic step in the UAE’s foreign policy approach to AI governance.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, highlighted the UAE’s pivotal role in shaping global AI governance frameworks. “The UAE has become a significant player in the global governance of artificial intelligence, actively contributing to international policy discussions and helping define the standards and frameworks that will shape the future of AI,” said Al Olama. He stressed that the new policy will bolster the UAE’s leadership in AI, ensuring advancements in technology benefit society at large.
Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology, emphasized that aligning AI policy with international standards enhances the UAE’s global position, while building trust with strategic partners. “This alignment enables local stakeholders, including private enterprises and research institutions, to address AI challenges on an international scale,” Sharaf added.
The policy is built on six guiding principles: advancement, cooperation, community, ethics, sustainability, and security. It ensures that AI development aligns with ethical, social, and environmental priorities. Additionally, the policy aims to harness AI to drive economic diversification, innovation, and the development of impactful technological solutions.
The UAE’s stance also includes active participation in international AI forums, advocating for transparent AI tools with built-in ethical checkpoints, and supporting international alliances to govern, secure, and develop AI systems. The policy promotes joint research and development to ensure the responsible use of AI, while upholding international regulations to prevent AI misuse that could destabilize or cause harm.
