Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
As part of its programme at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, TRENDS Research and Advisory hosted a workshop titled 'Artificial Intelligence and Its Legal Applications'.
Held in collaboration with Abu Dhabi University’s College of Law and the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals, the session attracted researchers, academics and legal-technology specialists.
TRENDS CEO Dr Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali opened the workshop by stressing the urgent need to explore the legal dimensions of emerging technologies. He said that integrating AI into judicial systems is now essential, though it must be done responsibly and through informed dialogue.
Moderated by researcher Eissa Al-Mannaei, the session featured Dr Abdullah Ghanem Al-Nasser, legal advisor and Head of the Artificial Intelligence Team at the Emirates Association for Lawyers and Legal Professionals. He addressed legislative and ethical challenges posed by AI in judicial processes, noting its usefulness in data analysis and document drafting, while emphasising that AI cannot replace human judgement in upholding justice.
Dr Al-Nasser shared a real-life example involving an AI-assisted bail request, which considered human and legal factors such as the defendant’s background and the presiding judge’s perspective. The case illustrated the importance of merging AI with expert legal reasoning.
Audience engagement was strong, with questions covering judicial accountability, ethical standards, and the readiness of Arab legal systems to adapt to AI. Participants agreed on the need to update legislative frameworks and concluded that the best path forward is integrating AI with human insight to ensure sustainable, efficient justice.
Also at the fair, the TRENDS Youth Council hosted a session titled 'Emirati Youth: Between Language and Books', in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s Specialised Libraries Department. The session explored the role of Arabic as a marker of identity and its importance in shaping social awareness, particularly in light of digital transformation and cultural shifts.
Young researchers and cultural activists examined the evolving relationship between youth and literature, addressing the decline in traditional reading habits and the need to balance heritage preservation with modern knowledge tools. They stressed that Arabic is more than a language; it is a cultural bridge linking generations.
Speakers called for greater support for Arabic digital content, youth-focused publications, and the integration of Arabic into modern technologies. They highlighted the role of libraries as cultural hubs combining technology, reflection and creativity to attract younger audiences.
The session drew strong interest from students and youth advocates, with lively discussion on reviving reading habits, promoting Arabic in workspaces, and positioning young cultural ambassadors as role models.
Participants concluded by calling for collaboration between youth and institutions to foster a generation proud of its language and heritage, and equipped to engage with the world. They praised TRENDS and its Youth Council for providing a platform to voice youth perspectives and shape a culturally rooted, forward-looking discourse.
