Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a powerful tool in human hands, capable of expanding horizons and overcoming borders. The sentiment anchored the opening remarks for Maxim Oreshkin, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office, Russia, and Alexander Vedyakhin, member of the Sberbank Executive Board, at The AI Journey 2024 conference in Moscow, which concluded recently. The turnkey technology conference, which marked a significant milestone in global AI collaboration and attracted millions of viewers worldwide also showcased the growing influence of the UAE in shaping the future of AI development.
With this year's conference highlighting technological advancements and the importance of ethical considerations and sustainable practices in AI deployment, speakers also recognised AI’s potential to foster international cooperation and drive economic growth. Andrey Belevtsev, Senior Vice President, Sberbank delivered a comprehensive presentation on AI's evolution as an indispensable human assistant. Belevtsev’s session, which included significant announcements about existing technological services and new initiatives, drew interest from UAE-based technology firms and investors as well. Belevtsev's insights underscored the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in driving innovation.
UAE explores AI-ESG connect
Dr Aisha Bin Bishr, Director General, Smart Dubai Office emerged as one of the conference's most influential voices. Her presentation titled AI and ESG: Finding the Intersection for a Sustainable Future, resonated with the UAE's commitment to sustainable development.
The session explored the crucial relationship between AI and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, emphasising the need for AI solutions that drive economic growth while positively impacting society and the environment.
The conference featured an impressive line up of international speakers, including Jaspreet Bindra from Tech Whisperer Limited, who provided insights into Artificial Intelligence: Future Outside ChatGPT. This presentation particularly interested UAE delegates, aligning with the nation’s goals of diversifying AI applications. Bindra's discussion on AI's potential in finance, logistics, and healthcare sparked engaging conversations among attendees.
As the world converges on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, the AI Journey 2024 conference in Moscow stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit driving innovation across borders. With influential speakers from various sectors, including founder and managing director of Omnien and former programme director at IBM, Tapiwa Chiwewe, the conference highlighted the UAE's commitment to leveraging AI for societal benefit.
Janet Sawari, CEO, TAIR Labs, South Africa presented compelling case studies on AI applications in education, healthcare, and agriculture. Her insights proved relevant to the UAE's food security initiatives and social development programs, highlighting technology's transformative potential in addressing global challenges.
The following video captures key moments and insights from this landmark event.
National Award ceremony and AI Challenge inspire
A highlight of the conference was the National Award ceremony, recognising AI leaders who have made significant impact in the field. This acknowledgment celebrated individual achievements and underscored the collaborative spirit of the conference, as participants shared experiences and best practices.
The AI Challenge for young data scientists and the AIJ Contest for experienced specialists demonstrated the growing talent pool in the field. These competitions highlighted the importance of nurturing the next generation of AI professionals, reflecting a commitment to building a robust AI ecosystem.
The conference marked a significant milestone in scientific collaboration with the announcement of AIJ Science's open selection of scientific articles. Selected papers will be published in a prestigious journal in partnership with the Russian Academy of Sciences, creating new opportunities for UAE researchers to contribute to global AI knowledge.
For the UAE and broader GCC region, the conference outcomes align with national strategies for digital transformation. The event highlighted how AI continues to evolve as a crucial tool for economic diversification and sustainable development — key priorities for the UAE. The discussions and partnerships formed during the conference are expected to drive the UAE's ambitions in becoming a global leader in AI technology.
The conference featured numerous presentations from partner technology companies, demonstrating practical applications of AI across various sectors. These sessions provided valuable insights for UAE businesses looking to implement AI solutions. The focus on real-world applications underscored the importance of collaboration between technology providers and end-users in driving successful implementation of AI technologies.
UAE a leading hub for tech innovation
As the AI Journey conference series concluded its year-long programme in Moscow, it set new benchmarks for international collaboration in AI development. For the UAE, the event reinforced its position as a leading hub for technological innovation in the Middle East and highlighted the importance of continued investment in AI capabilities. The insights gained and partnerships formed during the conference are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI in the region.
The conference's focus on practical applications of AI technology, combined with its emphasis on sustainable development and cross-border collaboration, mirrors the UAE's approach to technological advancement. The knowledge sharing and partnerships formed during the event are expected to contribute significantly to the nation’s ongoing digital transformation journey, ensuring that the UAE remains at the forefront of AI innovation on a global scale.
