Today's Edition
By: Dr. Mohammed Abdulla Al-Ali*
In this age of advanced technology, our world is changing at a breathtaking pace, driven by new technological innovations aimed at improving quality of life and achieving sustainable development.
AI has unlocked unprecedented possibilities that were once unimaginable but are now tangible realities in every aspect of life. The search continues for even more sophisticated technologies to serve humanity and the future of life on Earth.
Statistical estimates show the tremendous impact of artificial intelligence in shaping the future. It is expected that the global AI market will exceed $3.5 trillion in less than 10 years, reflecting its enormous growth potential.
Against this backdrop, TRENDS Research & Advisory held a symposium in Washington DC, titled “The Future of US-MENA Partnerships: The Impact of Technology and Innovation”. Attended by Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE Ambassador to the United States, along with an elite group of experts and executives from major technology and space companies, the symposium discussed the fast-moving technological transformations.
While the United States remains the world’s largest technological and economic power, trustworthy partnerships with Washington can open doors of opportunity for all countries.
At TRENDS, we believe our mission should focus on finding new ways and visions for cooperation in areas of technology, innovation, digital transformation and technological integration.
The world will not wait for those who fall behind in the technological race, while those who actively contribute to the development of technology will lead the way, given the role of technology as a key driver of tomorrow’s economic progress across the world. To strengthen research collaboration and partnerships with major global think-tanks, TRENDS has opened its physical office in Washington DC.
This is part of ongoing intellectual dialogue and a new phase of research cooperation between TRENDS and prominent US institutions in international affairs, technology, economics and global security.
The TRENDS office in Washington will serve as a bridge to the US academic and think-tank community, enabling forward-looking studies that keep pace with political, economic and social dynamics and anticipate future trends, particularly in technology, cybersecurity, clean energy, health tech and space.
As part of this engagement, TRENDS held research discussions with experts at the US State Department’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs and with researchers at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).
These meetings are in line with TRENDS’ collaborative efforts in promoting scientific research, exploring the future of technology and AI, and developing solutions to global challenges through policies and strategies that are based on knowledge, research, information, accurate information and data.
Creating a secure and sustainable digital environment through a comprehensive AI and cybersecurity strategy is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. Cybersecurity is a cornerstone for the stability of national and international security, and the integration of digital infrastructure with AI must be a core element of national strategies.
This ensures the safe and responsible use of AI, particularly as it affects manufacturing, healthcare, education, marketing, finance the creative industries, and beyond. It also enhances efficiency, improves forecasting and provides solutions that improve human lives.
With sound governance and oversight, societies can ensure that AI delivers fair outcomes, respects ethical norms and safeguards privacy through rigorous data protection laws. In recent years, AI has leapt from the realm of science fiction into everyday life.
It now offers practical solutions to pressing problems and opens the door for pioneering leadership in developing AI that serves humanity. This is why TRENDS, in its international tours and dialogues, focuses on building bridges, communication, collaboration, contributing to global dialogue and offering future-focused insights on issues of global concern. At the centre of these efforts is AI as an engine driving the future of the world.
*The writer is the Chief Executive Officer at the think-tank firm TRENDS Research & Advisory
