MUSCAT: The International Conference on Artificial Intelligence: Applications, Innovation, and Ethics commenced on Monday at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), organised by the university’s Unesco Chair on Artificial Intelligence and under the auspices of Eng Said bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology.
This three-day event serves as a pivotal platform to explore AI's role in shaping Oman’s digital future. Bringing together over 80 international and local experts, the conference delves into cutting-edge AI applications while addressing innovation, ethics, and sustainability.
Dr Said bin Salem Al Abri, Assistant Professor at SQU’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, emphasized the conference’s significance in aligning with Oman’s digital economy vision. He stated, “We are witnessing transformative changes in AI, making it an essential part of our future. This conference enhances local expertise and strengthens SQU’s role in applied research benefiting Oman’s economic sectors.”
The conference features expert-led workshops and discussions on AI’s impact across key sectors, including education, healthcare, industry, and energy. AI specialist Dr Abdullah Al Shamsi from the UAE remarked, “This event fosters collaboration between academia and industry, supporting digital transformation in the Gulf region.”
Beyond academia, the conference also provides a unique learning opportunity for students. Rashid Al Sulaimani, an Electrical Engineering student, noted, “AI is driving global advancements, and this conference allows me to gain valuable insights from leading experts.”
The discussions extend to AI’s role in tackling climate challenges, predicting natural disasters, and improving decision-making in critical industries. Experts also highlight the ethical concerns surrounding AI, emphasizing responsible development to ensure fairness, transparency, and societal well-being.
A key focus of the conference is Oman’s roadmap for AI-driven innovation, with speakers addressing policies that support responsible AI integration in government and private sectors. With Oman Vision 2040 prioritizing digital transformation, participants explored strategies to bridge the gap between research and industry application.
As Oman accelerates its digital transformation, the insights shared at this conference will shape future policies and technological advancements. By fostering global collaboration and innovation, Sultan Qaboos University continues to position itself as a leader in AI research, driving sustainable progress in the region.
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