The AI Ethics Council (AIEC), a US-based initiative supported by Operation HOPE, has announced the appointment of Omar Sultan Al Olama to its board of directors. Al Olama, who serves as the UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, becomes the first international figure and the first representative from the Middle East to join the council.
This milestone reflects the UAE’s advanced position in ethical AI governance and its active role in supporting global efforts to ensure the development of responsible, inclusive, and secure AI technologies.
Representing the Middle East on a Global AI Platform
Al Olama’s inclusion in the AI Ethics Council brings regional representation to a global platform comprising top leaders in civil rights, education, business, government, technology, and ethics. The council is co-chaired by Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and John Hope Bryant, founder and chairman of Operation HOPE.
His appointment reinforces the UAE’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation, sharing expertise, and contributing to global frameworks that build trust in future technologies — all aligned with the country’s vision of fostering a transparent, secure, and sustainable digital ecosystem.
A Statement of UAE’s Global Vision
Commenting on his appointment, Omar Al Olama emphasized that the UAE, under the leadership of its visionary government, continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
He highlighted the UAE’s pioneering model in ethical AI governance and its responsible adoption of advanced technologies, which has solidified its role on the international stage and contributed to building a more prosperous and sustainable digital future.
Al Olama reaffirmed that ethical responsibility is a core principle of the UAE’s strategy toward modern technologies. He stressed the nation’s ongoing support for global efforts to establish standards that ensure fair and responsible use of AI, while driving economic progress, expanding access to knowledge, and preserving the human values that the UAE and the world uphold.
Acknowledgment from the Council Leadership
John Hope Bryant welcomed Al Olama to the council, praising his appointment as a reflection of the UAE’s global leadership in artificial intelligence. He noted that Al Olama brings strategic insight, a bold vision, and invaluable experience that will enhance the council’s efforts to shape a responsible future for AI.
Bryant expressed gratitude for Al Olama’s partnership as the council works to build a comprehensive global framework for the ethical use of emerging technologies.
About the AI Ethics Council
The AI Ethics Council was established in December 2023 and includes a distinguished group of global leaders across various sectors. Its mission is to ensure community representation in AI development and to create a responsible, inclusive, and fair approach to how AI technologies are used.
The council is focused on leveraging AI to create new economic opportunities, particularly for underserved communities. Members include notable figures such as Dr. George T. French Jr., Dr. Helene Gayle, Dr. Bernice A. King, Dr. David Thomas, Angela F. Williams, and Ambassador Andrew J. Young, among others.
