Khalifa University of Science and Technology will host the AI Futures Summit: Empowering Higher Education on 24–25 September 2025, bringing together experts from academia, government, and industry to examine the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping higher education. The UAE is not just adapting to AI. It is creating the conditions for others to do so. The AI Futures Summit is a direct outcome of this intent, positioning the country as a host to the experts and ideas influencing the future of higher education.
Participants will engage in two days of thought-provoking, strategic and practical dialogue on the future of education in an AI‑driven world. The agenda will explore how universities can respond to and capitalise on the growing influence of AI while balancing institutional values, student outcomes, and operational demands.
Programme sessions will address:
- AI in teaching and learning, including curriculum integration, personalised learning, and assessment models
- Ethical and sustainable AI, with a focus on data privacy, academic integrity, and environmental impact
- Institutional use cases, covering automation in research workflows, learning‑management systems, and administrative processes
- Industry partnerships, exploring how universities and technology companies are working together to enhance innovation and student engagement
- Participants will hear from institutions actively deploying AI in core operations and engage in discussions about the risks, limitations, and governance challenges presented by emerging technologies.
Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost, Khalifa University, said: “The AI Futures Summit is an opportunity for universities to come together and share practical ideas on how artificial intelligence can support teaching, research, and student development. By bringing global and regional voices to Abu Dhabi, we hope to have insightful conversations about the opportunities that come with adopting new technologies in higher education. Hosting this dialogue at Khalifa University reflects our role as a hub for innovation and knowledge creation in the UAE, and our commitment to helping shape how AI is applied responsibly in this sector.”
The event will feature keynote presentations from leading experts from diverse professional backgrounds, offering a comprehensive perspective on AI integration across research management, digital innovation, and cybersecurity. Dr. Nader Ghazal, Chairman of the African Asian Council for AI and Cybersecurity, will address global challenges and collaborations in AI policy and cybersecurity. Nik Claesen, Managing Director of EARMA, will share insights on the evolving role of AI in research management. Prof. Dr. Christian Kapteyn, Professor of Digital Business at SRH University, Hamburg, will discuss practical applications of generative AI in academia and industry.
Additional keynote speakers and sessions will be announced in the coming weeks, including leaders in higher education, senior university officials, academic experts, scholars, and specialists in AI policy and academic transformation.
Delegates may register under academic, public sector, or corporate categories, with early‑bird rates available until 05 September 2025. For full details and registration, visit www.aifuturessummit.com
Members of the media are welcome to attend and cover the summit. Interview opportunities with keynote speakers and organisers are available on request. For media inquiries, please contact: Lisette van Kessel, Head of Marketing, Knowledge E, [email protected]
Further information can be found on the AI Futures Summit, Knowledge E and Khalifa University’s social media channels and website, while requests can be directed to [email protected]
