The Samina Leaders Summit 2025 commenced today in Dubai, inaugurated by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.

The summit is organized under the auspices of the Federal Authority for Regulating Communications and Digital Government and features a broad participation of policymakers, regional regulatory bodies, technology companies, and digital system enablers from around the globe.

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Nahyan emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "It is a great honor and pleasure to once again participate in the Samina Telecommunications Leaders Summit, a prominent event at the forefront of efforts to outline the digital and economic future of our region." He expressed gratitude to the Samina Council for their invitation and commended the council's ongoing commitment to achieving a shared vision for a digital future that is inclusive and sustainable.

Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the digital transformations occurring in the UAE, noting that they have transcended mere ambition to become a tangible reality.

He referenced the UAE's prioritization of digital innovation by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, emphasizing its importance in diversifying the economy, promoting societal well-being, and enhancing global competitiveness.

He stated, "Thanks to His Highness’s directives and support, we have adopted a proactive approach by establishing institutions that assist in adapting to rapid technological developments, such as the creation of the world’s first Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and the establishment of ethical guidelines for AI usage."

The UAE is recognized as a global leader in digital economy development and continues to pursue sustainable progress illuminated by a vision focused on innovation in policies and comprehensive growth.

Sheikh Nahyan noted the rapid expansion of fifth-generation networks, cloud infrastructure, and advancements in artificial intelligence, which are redefining what's possible for individuals, industries, and governments.

He addressed the complex and rapidly changing global environment, wherein recent trade measures, such as tariffs imposed by major economic powers, have underscored the deep interconnections among trade, technology, and geopolitics.

According to Sheikh Nahyan, such policies impact supply chains, increase costs for emerging markets, and could potentially slow the pace of global digital transformation.

He posited that in every disruption lies an opportunity, urging the Samina region to respond with resilience and determination by enhancing local innovation ecosystems, constructing flexible infrastructures, and forming new partnerships to secure a stable position in the future global digital framework.

Artificial intelligence, he indicated, will play a critical role in this phase, reshaping sectors such as healthcare, education, finance, and agriculture, while creating new business models and providing insights into human needs and behaviors.

He acknowledged that despite the numerous benefits of AI, it presents significant governance challenges, particularly concerning ethical issues, privacy protection, cybersecurity, and labor market shifts.

Sheikh Nahyan called for the region to take the initiative in establishing responsibility and trust at the core of AI strategies, emphasizing the importance of maximizing benefits from these technologies while ensuring inclusivity and addressing ethical challenges to achieve safety and sustainability.

The theme for this year, "Smart and Sustainable Transformation for Digital Economies," highlights the critical timing as success in the digital age is measured not solely by the speed of technology adoption but by the wisdom of its application.

He noted that this theme invites efforts to foster inclusive and sustainable innovation systems, build human capital alongside technical infrastructure, and ensure that digital progress enhances social cohesion, expands economic opportunities, and protects the environment.

The essence of smart transformation is rooted in a fundamental principle: that technology should serve humanity and not the reverse.

The Samina region possesses unique potentials that empower it to lead this transformation, given its digitally skilled youth, visionary governments, and vibrant systems for entrepreneurship, investment, and innovation.

Sheikh Nahyan stated, "We must invest in future skills, enhance cross-border digital cooperation, streamline regulatory frameworks to accelerate investment and innovation, and support startups and small to medium enterprises in creating digital value."

Concluding his address, Sheikh Nahyan reaffirmed the United Arab Emirates' full commitment to playing a pivotal role in this journey, calling upon all stakeholders to unify efforts for thinking, creating, and inspiring a smarter, safer, and more prosperous digital world for future generations.

He expressed hope that today's discussions would inspire renewed ambition and collaboration.