Ethics of AI usage discussed at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
ABU DHABI (WAM)As part of its cultural and intellectual programme at the 34th edition of the 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).At the start of the session, Dr. Abdulzaher emphasised the urgent need to establish clear ethical and legislative frameworks for AI technologies, tools, and applications to ensure responsible use and safeguard individual privacy.Dr. Abdulzaher noted that AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini represent just a drop in the ocean of AI advancements, explaining that the number of AI-based applications surged from approximately 35,000 in 2018 to 50,000 in 2024, with projections exceeding one million applications by the end of 2025.He further clarified the critical distinction between a 'tool' and an 'application,' pointing out that tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini serve as implementation mechanisms, while applications refer to integrated AI systems functioning within complete environments. Given this rapid expansion, he stressed the necessity of developing robust ethical standards, warning that unregulated usage could pose risks to individuals and society, particularly as companies race to offer faster and more precise AI-powered services.The AIJRF's CEO also called on journalists and media institutions to assume their responsibility by disclosing when AI is used in content production. He underscored the vital role of legislative bodies in enacting laws and monitoring the use of these technologies across both public and private sectors. 'AI is not a substitute for human beings,' he affirmed. 'It should be viewed as a tool that enhances human performance.'Dr. Abdulzaher continued: 'There are no jobs at risk from AI—only individuals who are at risk because they have not upgraded their skills.' He pointed out that AI tools are currently utilized in over 50 million jobs worldwide, generating significant economic returns.He concluded with a call for conscious and responsible technology use, remarking, '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 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair features more than 250 diverse intellectual and cultural publications, including a selection of the latest releases from Al-Hokama Publishing.
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