Dubai: Samer Abu-Ltaif, President of Microsoft Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), emphasized the necessity of foundational pillars like clear leadership, a strategic vision, and effective governance frameworks for building advanced national artificial intelligence ecosystems. His remarks were made during an interaction with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) at the World Governments Summit 2026 in Dubai.
According to Emirates News Agency, Abu-Ltaif highlighted the crucial challenge many countries in the region face in establishing robust cybersecurity foundations. He warned about the potential risks associated with adopting artificial intelligence technologies without an integrated infrastructure to protect data and digital systems. He also emphasized the importance of investing in human capital through upskilling and reskilling to maximize the benefits of artificial intelligence.
Abu-Ltaif underscored the necessity of forming strategic partnerships with global companies, not just for technology transfer but also to adopt and localize global best practices to serve national objectives. He expressed Microsoft's pride in its strategic partnership with the UAE, praising the country's leading global role in the adoption and application of artificial intelligence technologies, especially in the government sector, where the UAE's experiences represent advanced models internationally.
He further noted the UAE's exceptional capabilities, which qualify it to play a significant role in supporting Arab countries in bridging the digital gap in artificial intelligence. Abu-Ltaif pointed out that the UAE's proactive approach to global technological advancements, its ambitious leadership, and advanced infrastructure, including the establishment of the position of Minister of Artificial Intelligence, strengthen its position as a leader in this field.
Abu-Ltaif reaffirmed Microsoft's commitment to continue supporting the UAE and its regional partners to accelerate digital transformation and achieve sustainable development through innovation and advanced technology.
