The United Arab Emirates has unveiled the world’s first national policy governing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in elections, setting a new global benchmark for ethical technology regulation, according to Gulf News.
Announced by Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, the policy mandates that all candidates in upcoming Federal National Council elections must disclose and register any AI tools used in their campaigns. Developed in partnership with the Federal National Council and the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs, the measure aims to ensure transparency, prevent manipulation, and protect the integrity of the democratic process.
“This is the first policy of its kind globally,” Al Olama said, noting that the UAE seeks a balance between innovation and responsibility. “AI can help candidates reach a broader audience, but it can also be misused to influence voters unfairly. In the UAE, all AI applications in campaigns must be declared, reviewed, and monitored to ensure fairness.”
The minister said the framework reflects the country’s proactive approach to managing emerging technologies “to serve humanity and improve quality of life without compromising ethical principles.” He cited the UAE’s “National Charter for the Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence” as a guiding reference for ensuring AI adoption across sectors aligns with social values.
Al Olama also revealed that the UAE has launched the world’s first AI-powered legislative system to modernize how laws are studied and drafted. The government is further developing regulations for AI use in media and finance to combat misinformation and maintain public trust.
“The greatest challenge today is finding the right balance,” he said. “AI is one of humanity’s greatest opportunities, but our laws must remain fast, flexible, and forward-looking.”
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