DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates is leveraging its strategic geographic position and diverse demographic to pioneer the development and global export of artificial intelligence systems, according to Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications. Speaking at the 2024 Annual Meeting of Global Future Councils, Al Olama emphasized the UAE's infrastructure capabilities in hastening the deployment of AI technologies worldwide. According to Emirates News Agency, Al Olama highlighted the UAE's role as a connector between major global regions and its implications for AI development. "The UAE has always been the bridge between East and West, and between North and South," Al Olama said, underscoring the advantage this provides to companies developing AI systems for international markets. He noted that the UAE's infrastructure supports the rapid integration and dissemination of AI technologies, allowing for quicker deployment compared to other n ations. The minister also pointed out the UAE's proactive approach in training its workforce to adapt to new technologies. He mentioned that over 400 government officials have already completed specialist training in AI, aiming to align the country's human capital with its technological ambitions. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to not only innovate within but also to export AI solutions globally, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to maintaining a leading position in the technological sphere despite global geopolitical challenges. The conference also featured discussions on the interplay of AI with public health, climate action, and economic development. Mirek Dušek from the World Economic Forum, Masood Ahmed from the Center for Global Development, Jane Burston from the Clean Air Fund, and Tolu Oni from the University of Cambridge contributed insights on leveraging emerging technologies to address these interconnected global issues. Jane Burston emphasized the importance of integrating climate action with public health benefits, suggesting that highlighting the health implications of environmental policies can garner greater public support for sustainability measures. On the other hand, Masood Ahmed stressed the urgency of decarbonizing economic growth and securing affordable financing for green initiatives in developing countries. The 2024 Annual Meeting of Global Future Councils, held from October 15-17 in Dubai, brought together over 700 participants from 80 countries, including global experts and leaders in government and business. This assembly sets the stage for the agenda of the 2025 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos.