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Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Official Calls for Independent AI Safety Checks Amid Rapid Advances

A senior UAE official stated that countries must create independent evaluation frameworks rather than expecting the global artificial intelligence race to decelerate. Speaking at a technology summit in Abu Dhabi, he noted that developers should not be solely responsible for certifying their own AI systems. He also advocated for adaptive benchmarks that align with the critical nature of specific AI applications.

Industry News

UAE AI Commercialisation Hinges on Adoption and Operational Change, Presight CEO Says

At the Presight Future Forum in Abu Dhabi, Chief Executive Thomas Pramotedham stated that turning AI ideas into revenue and navigating corporate change remain the sector's primary challenges. The Abu Dhabi-based firm unveiled its FutureSight platform to connect international founders with enterprise customers, government entities, and capital providers. Industry data cited shows that while 89% of firms use AI, only 6% report significant financial returns.

China–UAE News

Mistral CEO Claims New AI Model Beats Chinese Rivals in Cybersecurity

Speaking at a conference in Abu Dhabi, Mistral AI CEO Arthur Mensch claimed the French firm's new model outperforms Chinese competitors in cybersecurity. Mensch said Mistral's position outside the US and China could help it secure enterprise clients across the Gulf and Asia-Pacific. The startup raised €3 billion at a €21 billion valuation in September 2026 as it battles US rivals and lower-cost Chinese offerings.

Policy & Legal Updates

DMCC Chief Urges Including Fertiliser Minerals in Global Critical Mineral Frameworks

DMCC Executive Chairman Ahmed Bin Sulayem stated that fertiliser components such as potash, phosphate rock, and sulphur must be treated as critical minerals for food security. Writing in Gulf News, he highlighted Dubai's trading infrastructure and proposed applying the Dubai Critical Minerals Standard to fertiliser inputs. The UAE remains the world's leading exporter of sulphur, with exports previously projected to reach 11.4 million tonnes annually by 2029.