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UAE and US forging the future of AI and advanced technology together

Microsoft UAE recently hosted the ‘Microsoft Build: AI Day’ tour in the UAE, bringing together government officials, technologists, innovators, IT decision-makers, and business professionals to discuss the transformative power of AI.

The event featured speeches from esteemed officials and experts. Naim Yazbeck, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, highlighted the company’s plans for the MENA region and the evolving tech landscape in a conversation with Edge Middle East.

**Microsoft to Increase Investment in MENA**

Yazbeck described AI as “the biggest tech innovation since the internet,” emphasizing its widespread impact. He noted that AI innovations are now emerging from the region, citing examples like Falcon and Jais, developed in the Emirates and now going global. “AI allows smaller countries and businesses to innovate at scale,” he said.

He praised market competition for driving innovation, affirming Microsoft’s leadership position. Yazbeck also announced the company's plan to expand its investment in the MENA region, including the expansion of their data center in the UAE and the introduction of OpenAI on Azure in the country, a unique offering in the region.

**UAE’s Early Commitment to Semiconductors**

The UAE is establishing itself as a global hub for advanced technology and AI, with a strategic vision that includes international partnerships in advanced semiconductor manufacturing. The Gulf state’s commitment to semiconductors began with Mubadala Investment Company’s establishment of GlobalFoundries in 2009, now a NASDAQ-listed leader in the field.

**Dubai’s AI Initiatives**

Dubai recently hosted an AI Retreat, attracting over 2,500 government officials, executives, and experts. Crown Prince HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed directed that the retreat’s outcomes be turned into actionable projects to enhance Dubai’s leadership in the AI sector. The event included 35 sessions and workshops on AI opportunities, trends, regulation, digital infrastructure, talent education, and high-level roundtables for immediate progress.

While AI’s rapid advancement is exciting, it necessitates a thorough and open discussion on AI ethics and the principles organizations should follow. Dubai’s Ethical AI Toolkit, featuring principles, guidelines, and a self-assessment tool for developers, aims to help entities use AI systems responsibly across the city ecosystem.
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