Sheikh Tahnoun Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is the UAE's National Security Adviser. ARCHIVE

Sheikh Tahnoun Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has been named one of the 100 most influential personalities in artificial intelligence (AI) by Time magazine, highlighting the UAE's growing role in shaping the global AI landscape. The recognition reflects the leadership of Sheikh Tahnoun, the UAE’s National Security Adviser, in driving technological innovation and AI development, both in the UAE and beyond. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, publicly praised Sheikh Tahnoun’s achievement, emphasizing how AI and technology are key to the future of the global economy. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Sheikh Tahnoun’s contributions to advancing AI-driven initiatives and global collaborations. “In a changing world, technological advancement is a primary driver of the evolving global economic landscape, with AI emerging as a pivotal technology,” Sheikh Mohammed stated. Sheikh Mohammed noted that Sheikh Tahnoun’s inclusion on Time’s prestigious list is a testament to the UAE’s strategic vision and leadership in the AI sector. He also commended Faisal Al Bannai, another influential Emirati recognized by Time for his contributions to AI. “The future is contingent upon your success, and the future of our generations with you is more promising,” Sheikh Mohammed added.

UAE’s strategic vision in AI

Time’s annual list, titled The Shapers, celebrates individuals globally who are making a profound impact on AI’s development. These influencers are shaping not only the technology but also the policies and businesses that will define the next phase of AI integration into daily life. The UAE's continued recognition in AI reflects its strategic investments and initiatives in various sectors such as defense, healthcare, and finance, further establishing the nation as a global hub for AI innovation. Sheikh Tahnoun’s influence, particularly in fostering AI-driven advancements, highlights the UAE’s ambitions to lead in this transformative field.

G42 and UAE's AI empire

Sheikh Tahnoun’s reach extends far beyond his governmental role. As the overseer of a $1.5 trillion empire, including two sovereign wealth funds, he has steered significant investment into AI development. Central to these efforts is G42, an AI conglomerate he founded in 2018, which has grown into a tech powerhouse in the Middle East. G42’s portfolio spans biotechnology, healthcare, and surveillance, with prominent partnerships with AI giants like OpenAI and Cerebras. Recently, G42 secured a $1.5 billion deal with Microsoft, which Sheikh Tahnoun hailed as “a pivotal moment” and “a strategic alignment of vision and execution.” The deal, he noted, marked a significant step forward for the UAE’s role in AI. This follows a strategic shift by G42, which divested from China in favor of aligning with Western tech giants amid global concerns over Beijing’s technological influence. Additionally, Sheikh Tahnoun chairs the AI-focused fund MGX, which has been reported to be in talks to back OpenAI’s chip venture—a move that could further strengthen the UAE’s AI leadership.

Global AI vision

Sheikh Tahnoun’s early fascination with AI, which dates back to IBM’s Deep Blue chess victory over Garry Kasparov in 1997, has translated into a broader vision for positioning the UAE at the forefront of global AI development. Through G42 and other initiatives, Sheikh Tahnoun continues to drive the nation’s AI ambitions, solidifying the UAE’s place as a key player in the global AI ecosystem. As Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid noted, the inclusion of UAE leaders in Time’s influential list reaffirms the country’s forward-thinking strategy in AI and its broader technological ambitions. The UAE’s leadership is not only shaping its own future but also contributing significantly to the evolving global economy. ICA/Expat Media
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