Emirati woman named member of UN’s AI panel

Dr. Tuqa Al Hanai, a graduate of Khalifa University, has been appointed as member of the United Nations’ Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (IISPAI), to join 40 experts selected from over 2,600 candidates from more than 140 countries.

Al Hanai obtained a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Khalifa University and currently works in the field of human-computer interaction.

Her research focuses on developing systems to measure the subjective dimensions of human experience, including team dynamics, conditions that affect the success of ideas in the market and how to evaluate individuals based on visual cues. Her work combines engineering foundations, behavioural cognition and applied artificial intelligence.

The United Nations General Assembly established the IISPAI in 2025 as the first permanent global scientific body dedicated exclusively to AI. Along with the other 40 members of the IISPAI, Al Hanai will prepare the IISPAI’s annual report, which provides evidence-based scientific assessments of the opportunities, risks and impacts of AI and is scheduled to be presented during the inaugural session of the ‘UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance’ to be held in Geneva in July this year.

The IISPAI’s tasks include preparing substantive summaries of urgent issues, providing updates to the United Nations General Assembly, forming working groups and consulting with external experts.

The 40 members of the IISPAI offer independent, policy-related perspectives on such issues as the development of safe and reliable AI systems, open-source software, open data, AI models available, transparency and accountability mechanisms and the broader implications including social, economic, ethical, and human rights implications of AI technologies.

Al Hanai’s selection reflects the presence of Khalifa University graduates among a group of international experts who participate in preparing scientific assessments that contribute to guiding multilateral dialogues on the future of AI.

“It’s a great honour to be selected as a member of the UN IISPAI and I look forward to contributing to evidence-based scientific assessments that can support and enrich global discussions on AI,” Al Hanai said.

“I am particularly proud of this achievement because it reflects the prestige of Khalifa University and the excellent education I received there. My studies provided me with a solid foundation in engineering and science that has shaped my career path every day since graduation. They also provided a stimulating environment that fostered self-confidence, a spirit of exploration and ambition. Everyone has a unique path that may not be a straight line, and I would like to encourage students and graduates to make the most of every day in ways that align with their strengths and experiences,” she added.