120 Researchers Discuss Artificial Intelligence Developments at Al Ain University’s Annual Student Forum
Under the patronage and in the presence of Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, Al Ain University launched the Second Annual Student Conference of the Association of Deanships of Student Affairs, affiliated with the Association of Arab Universities, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence Without Limits… Students’ Journey Toward the Future.” The conference was held from 25 to 29 January 2026.
The conference featured more than 120 researchers who presented over 120 papers, representing 26 universities across 10 Arab countries: the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, Jordan, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, Morocco, Tunisia, and the Arab Republic of Egypt. This participation reflected the growing Arab academic engagement in artificial intelligence and student scientific research.
The conference featured a comprehensive scientific program, including specialized seminars, scientific sessions, and motivational workshops delivered by a distinguished group of researchers, academics, and experts. The program focused on highlighting the latest applications and research trends in artificial intelligence, while enhancing students’ research, innovation, and future-readiness skills.
In her opening address, Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan expressed her pleasure at participating in the conference, emphasizing the delicate balance within a “world without limits,” and noting that the future is no longer something to be awaited but something being shaped in the present moment. She explained that the concept of “without limits” in artificial intelligence does not imply the absence of boundaries, but rather the removal of barriers between reality and possibility. She stressed that while machines possess speed and data, humans possess wisdom and conscience, underscoring the importance of ethics and humanity in guiding technological advancement so that artificial intelligence remains a tool that serves humanity rather than burdens it.
Prof. Ghaleb Al Refae, President of Al Ain University, stated that the second annual student conference reflected the University’s commitment to supporting student scientific research and strengthening students’ role in anticipating the future and contributing to knowledge production. He emphasized that artificial intelligence has become a core pillar in advancing higher education systems and building human capacities for innovation and competitiveness. He added that hosting this conference reaffirmed the University’s dedication to providing an interactive scientific platform that brings together students and researchers from Arab universities, fostering knowledge exchange and academic integration in support of sustainable development.
For her part, Prof. Ibtehal Abu Rezeq, Vice President of Al Ain University for Development and Follow-up, Dean of Student Affairs, and Secretary-General of the Association of Deanships of Student Affairs, explained that the conference served as a high-quality platform for empowering students to utilize artificial intelligence tools in scientific research and creative thinking. She noted that preparing future-ready generations requires integrating academic knowledge with practical application, while strengthening analytical and innovation skills. She further highlighted that the diversity of research papers and participating Arab universities reflected growing awareness of the importance of artificial intelligence in addressing educational and societal challenges, and reaffirmed the conference’s role in supporting student and research excellence across the Arab world.
The conference structure aligned with global trends toward digital transformation and the adoption of artificial intelligence as key drivers of sustainable development and the knowledge economy. Artificial intelligence was highlighted as a fundamental pillar in advancing higher education, empowering students with future-oriented tools, and enhancing their capacity to develop innovative and intelligent solutions to societal and economic challenges. The conference also underscored the importance of investing in young talent and preparing them for active participation in technological advancement, in line with global developments and the Arab world's strategic priorities.
