Sanaa: The Artificial Intelligence Summit Yemen 2026 officially commenced in Sanaa under the theme "Towards a Smart Future and Sustainable Development." The summit, launched on Wednesday, delves into the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and its application across vital sectors, promoting innovation, scientific research, digital transformation, and partnerships to support sustainable development. Discussions are also being held on proposals for a national vision and platform to propel Yemen's digital future through AI and emerging technologies.
According to Yemen News Agency, Deputy Minister of Education and Scientific Research Dr. Hatem Al-Duais, during the opening session, emphasized that artificial intelligence is now a strategic necessity rather than a technological luxury. He lauded the university's initiative, describing the summit as a pivotal step towards establishing a national AI strategy that unites policymakers, researchers, academics, and industry experts to bolster innovation and technical capacity.
Dr. Al-Duais highlighted the need to keep pace with technological advancements and urged specialists to develop local AI platforms and utilize open-source technologies to create systems tailored to Yemen's specific needs and regulatory framework.
Executive Director of the Information Technology Center Dr. Fouad Abdul-Razzaq underscored the importance of formulating a national AI strategy to steer the integration of artificial intelligence in development projects. He stressed the significance of investing in domestic AI models, localizing technology, and applying AI in sectors such as public services, healthcare, education, agriculture, and human development.
Modern Specialized University President Dr. Mujahid Al-Jabr described the summit as a pivotal opportunity to shape Yemen's digital future. He noted that artificial intelligence is a key driver of global economic and scientific progress. The summit aims to foster dialogue on AI ethics and governance while enhancing cooperation among universities, government institutions, and the private sector.
Dr. Al-Jabr expressed optimism that the summit would lead to the formation of a Yemeni Society for Artificial Intelligence and the creation of a national AI vision accompanied by a comprehensive governance framework.
The opening ceremony saw the attendance of university presidents, representatives from higher education institutions, government agencies, the private sector, and the Innovation, Science and Technology Authority. It featured a presentation on the future of artificial intelligence in Yemen, followed by the launch of scientific sessions, lectures, workshops, and technical discussions.
Research presentations focused on AI applications in various fields, including healthcare, education, agriculture, banking, cybersecurity, scientific research, innovation, the digital economy, infrastructure, digital sovereignty, and AI governance.
Organized by the Modern Specialized University, the event brought together academics, researchers, technology experts, students, and representatives from Yemeni universities and institutions. Participants also toured an AI exhibition held alongside the summit, showcasing over 20 student-developed engineering projects incorporating artificial intelligence.