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This month, Abu Dhabi reaffirmed its position as a leading global player in the dialogue on ethical innovation and technology governance, culminating in the Governance of Emerging Technologies Summit (GETS 2025) on May 6. The two-day event attracted over 1,000 attendees from more than 20 countries, focusing on the development of worldwide frameworks for the responsible oversight of swiftly evolving technologies.
Hosted by the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) in collaboration with the UAE Public Prosecution, GETS 2025 brought together ministers, legal experts, technologists, and business leaders for an in-depth discussion on the future of artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and Web3 technologies.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasized the strategic necessity of the UAE’s early investment in AI. He stated, “Under visionary leadership, the UAE identified the significance of artificial intelligence early on, emphasizing the need for bold actions and responsible governance to shape its future.” He highlighted efforts to mobilize national expertise and create forward-thinking regulatory measures to remain ahead of technological changes.
Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, discussed the evolution of the UAE’s educational framework to meet future challenges. “Integrating AI concepts and technologies into academic programs represents a vital investment in creating more resilient societies prepared for future demands,” she remarked.
Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State and Secretary General of the UAE Cabinet, pointed out that “incorporating responsible technology governance into national policy is a long-term goal. It aligns with our commitment to developing agile institutions, proactive legislation, and resilient communities that can navigate the complexities of the digital era.”
The summit included targeted sessions on the real-world effects of emerging technologies. Dr. Amin Hussain Al Amiri from the Ministry of Health and Prevention, along with representatives from NMC Healthcare and the Al Dhafra Youth Council, examined the application of AI in healthcare and the regulatory frameworks necessary for safe and effective implementation.
Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the co-founder of Binance and Giggle Academy, addressed the regulatory changes required for a decentralized Web3 future. Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of the Technology Innovation Institute, stressed the importance of innovation and resilience during periods of disruption from quantum advancements and AI.
Additional discussions covered industrial transitions, intellectual property rights in the era of generative AI, and the integration of governance into educational systems. A panel featuring Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lameen Abdul-Malik, along with representatives from Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and Abundance Studio, advocated for the application of governance principles early in educational systems.
In the concluding session, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, and Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, outlined a strategic roadmap aimed at boosting institutional preparedness, fostering ethical innovation, and enhancing global coordination in technology governance.
GETS 2025 commenced on May 5 under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Dignitaries attending included the attorneys general of Qatar and Egypt, as well as the deputy attorney general of Oman.
In his keynote address, Chancellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, UAE Attorney General, stated: “Innovation without ethics is incomplete. The future of emerging technologies needs to be guided not only by progress but also by a greater purpose—serving humanity and society.”
The UAE Public Prosecution took advantage of the summit to launch its Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030, which aims to revolutionize the country’s justice system using predictive analytics, smart governance, and cutting-edge digital technologies.
The summit concluded with a Gala Dinner hosted by the UAE Public Prosecution, gathering global thought leaders to collectively advocate for inclusive, secure, and human-centered innovation.
As the event closed, it was evident that the UAE is taking not only a proactive stance in adopting emerging technologies, but also playing a crucial role in shaping the frameworks for their governance.