Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a landmark moment for the UAE’s leadership in artificial intelligence, the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has awarded its first-ever honorary doctorate to Sam Altman, Co-founder and CEO of OpenAI.
The historic recognition celebrates Altman’s pioneering contributions to the development and global adoption of AI technologies, his pivotal role in driving digital transformation, and his efforts in advancing impactful innovations that shape the future of societies worldwide.
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, attended the ceremony and congratulated Mr. Altman on receiving the university’s inaugural honorary degree. Sheikh Khaled highlighted that the award reflects a career of groundbreaking achievements that align with the UAE’s bold vision for global AI leadership.
“I am honoured to receive MBZUAI’s inaugural honorary doctorate,” said Mr. Altman. “The university’s commitment to putting AI at the centre of education and research is truly commendable. As we enter a new era shaped by AI, the UAE’s bold vision to advance this technology responsibly and ambitiously aligns with our mission to ensure its benefits are widely shared.”
Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority and Chairman of MBZUAI’s Board of Trustees, described the awarding of the degree as a testament to the university’s growing status as a global centre of excellence in artificial intelligence.
“Sam is a pioneer whose brilliance and tenacity have made the transformational benefits of AI accessible and impactful for individuals, organisations, and societies worldwide,” he said.
Professor Eric Xing, President of MBZUAI, added that Altman has “turned AI from a research concept into a global engine of progress. His vision, conviction, and courage in scaling generative AI have transformed how billions of people process, apply, and share information. In honouring him today, we recognise not only an extraordinary innovator and leader, but also the enduring legacy he is building in shaping humanity’s future.”
The conferral of MBZUAI’s first honorary doctorate underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering research, nurturing global talent, and building a knowledge-driven economy. It also highlights the critical importance of collaboration between academia and industry in shaping a responsible and sustainable technological future.
