OpenAI CEO proposes UAE as global AI regulatory testing ground

Sam Altman, the leader of OpenAI, has identified the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a potential "regulatory sandbox" for testing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. He thinks the UAE's progressive AI policies make it an ideal place to experiment with different regulations before implementing them worldwide.

Altman says it's important to test these rules in real-world situations rather than just theorizing about them. He sees the UAE's commitment to AI development and infrastructure as key factors that could lead to it becoming a leader in shaping global AI regulations.

Altman's comments come as he seeks investors in the Middle East for a semiconductor initiative to advance AI. However, concerns have been raised about the UAE's connections to China, prompting some Emirati companies to adjust their strategies.

In addition to discussing regulations, Altman also mentioned OpenAI's plans to make some of its AI models available to the public and to develop tools to help countries with limited resources access AI technology.

Altman's proposal positions the UAE as a potential hub for testing and shaping future AI regulations, leveraging its progressive stance on AI and infrastructure to drive global discussions in this field.