UN General Assembly Appoints Dr. Tuka Alhanai to Independent International Scientific Panel on AI
On February 16, 2026, the United Nations General Assembly announced the appointment of Dr. Tuka Alhanai, an Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering at New York University Abu Dhabi, to the newly established UN Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Recognition of Expertise
Dr. Alhanai is renowned for her work at the intersection of human and computational intelligence. Her contributions to the field have earned her multiple national and international accolades, including the MIT Technology Review Innovators Under 35 MENA (IU35 MENA) Award.
As one of two representatives from the Arab region, she joins a select group of 40 members on the Panel, which is tasked with providing independent and multidisciplinary scientific assessments to inform discussions on the opportunities, risks, and impacts of AI.
Goals of the Scientific Panel
The Panel was conceived as part of the Global Digital Compact (GDC), which was adopted as an annex to the Pact for the Future (PftF) at the 2024 Summit of the Future. Its primary objective is to ensure that international deliberations on AI are guided by the best available evidence.
Additionally, the Panel aims to make complex assessments accessible to all countries and stakeholders, thereby addressing the AI knowledge gap. The diverse composition of the Panel reflects this ambition, ensuring a wide range of perspectives and expertise.
Statements from UAE Officials
Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology, expressed, “The appointment of Dr. Alhanai to this landmark UN Panel reflects the strength of Emirati scientific talent and the UAE’s investment in advanced technologies.” He emphasized the UAE’s readiness to support the Panel’s first report and contribute to shaping global AI governance effectively.
Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, the UAE’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, stated, “We take tremendous pride in Dr. Alhanai’s appointment. Her distinguished research career showcases the UAE’s commitment to sustained investment in artificial intelligence and the development of world-class scientific talent.”
Dr. Alhanai’s Vision
In her remarks, Dr. Alhanai noted, “I am pleased to join this distinguished Panel at such a pivotal moment for AI innovation and governance.” She looks forward to collaborating with experts to enhance understanding of AI’s impacts and opportunities, while also highlighting the contributions of the UAE and the region to AI research.
The UAE’s Commitment to AI
Dr. Alhanai’s appointment coincides with the UAE’s rapid growth in research outputs and advancements in scientific expertise and AI applications. Her focus on human-centric AI aligns with the UAE’s vision of utilizing AI to promote sustainable development and enhance human values.
As a hub for technology, commerce, and innovation, the UAE’s AI strategy emphasizes leveraging technology for good, with a focus on partnerships that support sustainable development globally, particularly in the Global South.
The UAE is committed to fostering international cooperation, capacity-building, and the ethical and inclusive advancement of AI at the United Nations and in multilateral forums worldwide.
