AI Preparedness Essential As Technology Reshapes Media, Society: Abdulla Al Hamed
DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 17th Sep, 2026)
Governments, organizations, and individuals must prepare for the rapid development of artificial intelligence as the technology increasingly shapes information, media, and everyday life, said Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority, during the Arab Media Summit 2026.
Speaking at a session titled “The Next Chapter for Arab Media”, Al Hamed emphasized the need to build greater awareness of AI, especially regarding the growing sophistication of content that makes distinguishing between genuine and fabricated information more challenging. He extended this preparedness beyond governments and companies to communities, schools, and children.
"The world is changing, and it is our responsibility to keep pace with that change," he stated.
Al Hamed warned that AI could pose risks to national security if societies are not sufficiently prepared to understand and respond to the technology and the misinformation it can enable. He cited recent regional developments where fabricated videos and reports attempted to create fear by falsely depicting incidents in the UAE.
According to Al Hamed, public trust and awareness play a crucial role in countering such content, as citizens and residents used social media to challenge false reports and share authentic footage from the ground. He also encouraged individuals to verify information before believing or sharing it, particularly as AI tools become more adept at producing convincing images, videos, and written content.
Al Hamed personally utilizes AI tools to trace the origins of images and information and assess the credibility of their sources. He compared the development of AI to earlier technological concerns, such as calculators, which eventually became commonplace in daily life.
"The question is: will it be dangerous while I am prepared for it, or dangerous while I know nothing about it?" he posed.
Instead of rejecting AI due to fears about its future evolution, Al Hamed suggested developing enough knowledge about AI to understand both its potential and its risks. He noted that he currently uses over 120 AI agents to assist with tasks ranging from emails and calendars to reminders, upcoming events, and personal organization.
"Life is going to change. The way we deal with one another is going to change," Al Hamed concluded.