Oman Hosts 4th International Conference on Communication, Media, and AI Revolution

Muscat, The Gulf Observer: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), is hosting the 4th International Conference on the Present and Future of Communication, Media, and the AI Revolution.

The three-day event, inaugurated under the auspices of Dr. Abdullah Nasser Al Harrasi, Minister of Information, brings together experts to discuss over 60 scholarly papers addressing the philosophical frameworks and practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in communication and media. The conference explores challenges in media education, training, and the broader implications of AI on the future of the industry in the Arab region and beyond.

During his address, Dr. Abdullah highlighted the transformative role of AI in various aspects of life, particularly in content creation and innovative fields. He remarked, “AI will bring about major changes, some positive and others appearing negative, at least for now, such as shifts in media jobs, content production, and the risks of misinformation.” He emphasized the potential of AI to foster job creation and enhance audience engagement by analyzing big data to develop tailored media content that aligns with individual preferences.

The Minister noted the significance of the conference coinciding with two key milestones: the 50th anniversary of Oman TV broadcasting, which began on 17 November 1974, and the recent promulgation of the Oman Media Law, designed to balance the freedoms, rights, and responsibilities of media professionals and institutions.

Dr. Abdullah Khamis Al Kindi, Chairman of the Preparatory Committee, shared insights on the economic impact of AI in media. He stated that the global market for AI applications in media is expected to grow from $10 billion in 2022 to over $30 billion by 2030. He noted that AI algorithms currently allocate content for 80% of social media users and that 70% of global media organizations are adopting AI to analyze audience interactions, streamline content production, and enhance efficiency by over 50%.

The conference aims to intensify research efforts on AI’s role in communication and media, focusing on its challenges and opportunities. By fostering dialogue among industry experts and scholars, the event seeks to chart a sustainable future for media and communication in the age of AI.