Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, transforming industries worldwide, but with this swift progress comes complex challenges around governance, ethics, and accountability. Kelly Forbes, a member of the AI Council at Qlik, emphasizes that simply having human oversight is not enough to safely manage AI’s increasing autonomy. As AI technologies evolve from generative AI to agentic AI—systems that can independently perform tasks—businesses and regulators must develop smarter, more comprehensive frameworks that keep pace with AI’s growth. Forbes highlights the critical need for better training, global standards, and corporate leadership to ensure AI systems remain responsible and fair in diverse environments, including places like Dubai International Airport, Abu Dhabi International Airport, and Sharjah International Airport, which are major hubs witnessing AI integration in their operations.
The Growing Complexity of AI and Governance
Over the last year, the conversation around AI has shifted from generative AI, which creates content based on data inputs, to agentic AI, which acts more independently. Forbes explains that this autonomy reduces human input, making it essential to establish rigorous safeguards to monitor AI behavior and prevent mistakes. Businesses face practical challenges, such as understanding local regulations and building the right infrastructure. This is especially relevant in global hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah airports, where AI applications must align with regional laws and operational needs. Corporate AI councils, like the one at Qlik, play a pivotal role by bringing together experts to guide companies on compliance, ethics, and responsible AI deployment.
Fragmented Global Standards and the Need for Unified Frameworks
Despite progress, global AI governance remains fragmented. Different countries and regions, including the European Union with its AI Act, are creating their own regulations, making it difficult for businesses to operate under a single unified standard. Forbes points out that while the EU’s AI Act might influence global policies through the “Brussels effect,” a comprehensive worldwide framework is still lacking. Governments like those in Singapore, the UAE, and Japan are balancing innovation with regulation by using sandbox approaches that allow controlled testing of AI technologies before imposing strict rules. Forbes also stresses that educating businesses and users about AI’s limitations—such as bias, misinformation, and copyright issues—is vital to minimize risks as AI becomes more widespread.
As AI continues to evolve and integrate into critical infrastructures, including international airports, the challenge remains to advance policies and practices that not only promote innovation but also protect users and society from potential harms.
