UAE Launches First-Ever AI Policy for National Election Campaigns
The United Arab Emirates has made history by introducing the world’s first policy regulating artificial intelligence (AI) in national elections. This bold move demonstrates the UAE’s leadership in ethical technology use, showing the world that innovation and transparency can go hand in hand. According to Al Bayan Arabic daily, this policy reflects the country’s dedication to fair, safe, and responsible AI usage in democratic processes.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, unveiled the National Elections Committee Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence. Developed in partnership with the Federal National Council (FNC) and the Ministry of State for FNC Affairs, this policy requires all candidates in upcoming elections to declare any AI tools used in their campaigns. The main goal is to maintain transparency, prevent manipulation, and ensure that voters can trust the democratic process.
“This is the first policy of its kind in the world,” said Al Olama. “AI can help candidates reach more voters efficiently, but it can also be used unfairly. In the UAE, all AI applications in campaigns must be declared, monitored, and evaluated to maintain fairness.”
A Balanced Approach to AI in the UAE
The UAE’s new policy reflects a proactive and balanced approach to emerging technologies. It aligns with the National Charter for the Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence, which guides both government and private sector AI initiatives. The charter emphasizes that innovation should go hand in hand with ethical practices, ensuring technology improves productivity without compromising societal values.
Al Olama highlighted how the UAE’s approach differs from other countries. For instance, the European Union has strict regulations that can slow innovation, while the United States relies on flexible guidelines that encourage rapid growth. “The UAE chooses a middle path,” he explained, “combining clear legislation with ongoing innovation to foster responsible AI use.”
The UAE has even appointed AI as a “Cabinet advisor,” using real-time data analysis and insights to inform critical economic and social decisions. This unique approach allows the government to make better-informed choices while encouraging Emirati talent to fully harness AI technology.
AI Modernizing Lawmaking
The UAE has launched the world’s first AI-powered legislative system. This system helps lawmakers study, draft, and evaluate laws more effectively. Using AI, legislators can analyze complex technical details, assess social and economic impacts, and generate insights for better decision-making.
“This system does not replace human lawmakers but supports them with advanced intelligence,” said Al Olama. By integrating AI into lawmaking, the UAE ensures that decisions are data-driven, accurate, and timely.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has showcased this AI governance model at international forums, demonstrating how the UAE is leading the way in ethical and responsible AI use worldwide.
Regulating AI in Finance
AI is also transforming the financial sector, and the UAE is creating advanced regulations to ensure its safe use. Particularly in Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s financial free zones, laws are being designed to allow innovation while protecting investors and the public.
Al Olama explained the concept of “legislative laboratories”, where new regulations are tested in controlled environments before nationwide implementation. These labs help policymakers understand the social, economic, and governmental effects of AI laws, reducing risks while fostering innovation.
By carefully regulating AI in finance, the UAE ensures the sector remains secure, innovative, and competitive, encouraging global businesses to invest confidently.
AI in Media: Ensuring Authentic Content
AI is increasingly used in journalism and digital content creation. However, this raises challenges around misinformation and deepfakes. The UAE is developing guidelines for AI use in media to ensure content authenticity while allowing creativity.
“When we see online content, we need to know whether it is real or AI-generated,” said Al Olama. “Our laws aim to allow innovation without spreading false information or manipulating public opinion.”
Data shows that 81% of journalists now use AI in their daily work, but fewer than 13% of media organizations have formal AI policies. Clear regulations ensure responsible AI usage, protect privacy, and maintain trust in media.
Protecting Privacy and Personal Data
AI can analyze personal data with incredible precision, making privacy protection a top priority. The UAE is creating fast-moving, adaptable laws to keep pace with AI growth.
“The challenge is to find the right balance — enabling AI to be effective while preventing misuse,” said Al Olama. Currently, 88% of workers worldwide use AI directly or indirectly, and the World Economic Forum predicts AI could create more than 69 million jobs and generate over $407 billion in global economic value by 2027.
Al Olama emphasized that AI regulation is a shared responsibility, involving governments, businesses, and individuals. The UAE’s approach ensures AI continues to be a tool for good, driving innovation while protecting society.
UAE Leading Global AI Governance
By introducing the National Elections Committee Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence, the UAE is setting an international example. The policy strengthens transparency and fairness in elections while advancing AI governance across finance, media, and legislation.
From helping lawmakers with AI-powered insights to protecting citizens from fake content, the UAE demonstrates how responsible AI use can boost innovation, economic growth, and public trust. This approach places the country at the forefront of ethical AI governance globally.
