Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence Discussed at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: As part of its cultural and intellectual programme at the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion hosted a seminar titled “Ethics of Artificial Intelligence Usage”, presented by Dr. Mohamed Abdulzaher, CEO of the Artificial Intelligence Journalism Foundation for Research and Forecasting (AIJRF).
Dr. Abdulzaher began the seminar by stressing the urgent need for clear ethical and legislative frameworks to govern AI technologies. He underscored the importance of responsible use and protecting individual privacy in an era of rapid AI development.
Highlighting the explosive growth of AI, he noted that while tools like ChatGPT and Gemini have become popular, they represent only a fraction of the broader AI ecosystem. The number of AI-based applications has grown from 35,000 in 2018 to 50,000 in 2024, with expectations that over one million applications will be in use by the end of 2025.
Dr. Abdulzaher distinguished between “tools” and “applications,” explaining that tools are specific implementations like ChatGPT, while applications refer to fully integrated AI systems operating within entire environments. He warned that the unchecked proliferation of AI could pose ethical and societal risks, especially amid intensifying commercial competition.
Calling on the media sector to be transparent, he urged journalists and media institutions to clearly disclose when AI is used in content creation. He also emphasized the need for legislative action to regulate AI use across public and private sectors.
“AI is not a substitute for human beings; it is a tool to enhance human performance,” he stated. Addressing concerns about job displacement, Dr. Abdulzaher said, “There are no jobs at risk from AI—only individuals at risk if they fail to upgrade their skills.”
Currently, AI tools are reportedly involved in over 50 million jobs globally, yielding substantial economic benefits. Dr. Abdulzaher concluded with a powerful reminder: “AI is a powerful tool, but it cannot replace the human mind. We must learn to master it, not surrender to it.”
The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Book Fair showcases more than 250 intellectual and cultural publications, including recent titles from Al-Hokama Publishing, reinforcing the Council’s commitment to promoting thoughtful dialogue around contemporary global issues.
