Hip-hop icon Jay-Z met with Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, the National Security Advisor and Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, on Wednesday to talk about the future of the entertainment industry and the technological changes brought about by artificial intelligence.
They discussed the emirate’s attempts to implement its Government Digital Strategy 2025–2027, which calls for a shift to a service-based economy backed by AI and cutting-edge technology.
Elbert O’Neal Robinson, the chief executive of MarcyPen Capital Partners, and Jay Brown, the vice chairman, both attended the conference.
“I met with Shawn ‘Jay-Z’ Carter, chairman of Roc Nation, together with Jay Brown, vice chairman, and Elbert O’Neal Robinson Jr, chief executive officer of MarcyPen Capital Partners, where we discussed the future of the entertainment industry and the technological transformations driven by artificial intelligence in this vital field, as well as the importance of balancing innovation with data protection and the rights of creators,” Sheikh Tahnoon wrote on X after a successful meeting.
He added ”“We also discussed Abu Dhabi’s efforts to transform into a service-led economy powered by AI and advanced technology, further strengthening the emirate’s position as a leading global destination for culture, creativity, tourism and entertainment.”
Allocation of resources
With Abu Dhabi allocating substantial funds to its plan, the emphasis on AI governance is a component of a larger national movement.
Between now and 2027, about Dh13 billion ($3.53 billion) will be spent to promote innovation and accelerate the implementation of AI across all government agencies.
The Prime Minister and ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, declared in June that the National Artificial Intelligence System of the United Arab Emirates would join the Cabinet as an advising member starting in January 2026.
The system will facilitate decision-making, offer technical analysis, and increase the effectiveness of policies.
Sheikh Mohammed announced a new federal strategy cycle a month later that aims to integrate AI into government planning and service provision.
Sheikh Tahnoon was joined this month by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, to discuss the status of important AI and digital transformation objectives.
