His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama was appointed as the UAE’s first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in 2017, becoming the world’s first minister in this field. In July 2020, his responsibilities expanded to encompass Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications. In 2023, he further assumed the roles of Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and Director General of the Dubai Crown Prince’s Office.
Playing a pivotal role in shaping the UAE’s technological and economic future, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama also holds the position of Deputy Managing Director of the Dubai Future Foundation, where he spearheads innovative and futuristic initiatives. As the Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, he is at the forefront of efforts to establish Dubai as a global digital economy leader. His influential roles extend across major councils and committees, including the World Government Summit and key sectors within the UAE’s digital and AI strategies.
His Excellency has earned a place in Time’s list of the 100 most influential people in AI, a testament to his global impact. He serves on the World Economic Forum’s AI Governance Alliance steering committee, a group comprising world leaders in digital and technological fields. Moreover, UN Secretary-General António Guterres appointed His Excellency to his AI Advisory Body, focusing on the international challenges and governance of Artificial Intelligence.
As the architect behind the UAE’s AI strategy and digital economy initiatives, His Excellency has a definitive vision to establish the nation as a world leader in AI and technology. His strategy emphasizes cultivating a robust AI ecosystem, enhancing the UAE’s competitive edge in key sectors, fostering talent for AI-driven future jobs, and encouraging groundbreaking research collaborations in target industries.
His Excellency’s professional journey spans various sectors, including finance, telecommunications, private enterprises, and government. He has been instrumental in developing and implementing strategies, conducting risk analysis, managing change, and planning for various scenarios.