The United Nations has appointed Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE's Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, to its new High-Level AI Advisory Body. This body, composed of 39 global experts, is tasked with supporting international efforts to govern artificial intelligence and bridge AI divides. Its mandate includes fostering collaboration on AI development and ensuring its responsible use worldwide. Why it matters: This appointment underscores the UAE's increasing influence in global AI governance and its commitment to shaping international AI frameworks and standards.
The UAE Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications Office has released a new generative AI guide. This guide aims to accelerate the adoption of AI technologies across both government and business sectors within the country. It provides clear guidance and support for the responsible and effective use of generative AI. Why it matters: This initiative underscores the UAE's strategic commitment to enhancing its AI ecosystem and leadership by fostering innovation and responsible adoption of cutting-edge AI technologies across key national sectors.
Eyal Ofek of Microsoft Research is researching how to augment users' senses and use scene understanding to create more inclusive workspaces, especially for remote work. His work involves designing applications flexible to changing environments and personalized to each user. Ofek's background includes computer vision, augmented reality, and leading research groups at Microsoft. Why it matters: This research aims to improve remote collaboration and adapt technology to individual user needs, which could enhance productivity and inclusivity in the evolving work landscape of the GCC region.
MBZUAI's Dr. Hao Li is working on using AI and 3D telepresence to transform communication, work, and education by replacing physical transportation with virtual teleportation. His research focuses on the intersection of computer graphics, computer vision, and AI, specifically virtual avatar creation and facial performance capture. Li aims to improve communication using AI to achieve what cannot be done in real life. Why it matters: This research has the potential to reduce carbon footprints by enabling remote work and virtual collaboration, while also positioning MBZUAI and the UAE as leaders in AI-driven metaverse technologies.