Abu Dhabi, UAE – Valerie Hawley, Founder of SCAI, shared her perspective on the global AI landscape, investment priorities, and the UAE’s strategic role during the Machines Can Think Summit 2026. Hawley spoke in an interview with Justin Cooke at the event.
Hawley described Machines Can Think as a content driven forum that brings global AI expertise to Abu Dhabi while reinforcing the UAE’s position on the international AI map.
“This event brings together experts from around the world and feeds meaningful discussion on AI for Abu Dhabi,” Hawley said. “It places the UAE firmly on the global AI stage.”
Reflecting on the current phase of AI development, Hawley emphasized the importance of diversity in both technology and investment.
“We need to support AI development at many levels,” she said. “Diversity reduces risks such as echo chambers, monopolies, and concentration of power.”
She stressed the need to balance innovation with privacy, risk management, and broad participation across regions and sectors.
Hawley pointed to the UAE’s long term vision as a key differentiator. She highlighted national investments across the full AI value chain, from chips and infrastructure to foundation models, startups, education, and research.
“The UAE understands AI end to end,” she said. “The goal to become a net exporter of technology by 2030 is realistic and well supported.”
From an investor perspective, Hawley described current challenges in AI funding. High valuations and project saturation make decision making complex. She noted a shift from broad horizontal models toward vertical AI built for specific industries and use cases.
“Sector specific AI is becoming more attractive,” Hawley said. “Energy efficiency and compute optimization also matter, since energy cost remains a major constraint.”
She also pointed to advances in computing efficiency and long term potential in quantum technologies as areas to watch.
When advising new AI founders, Hawley focused on accessibility and opportunity. AI tools now allow founders to build faster with smaller teams, lowering traditional barriers to entry.
“This is a strong time to start,” she said. “Founders should take advantage of what AI enables and move forward.”
The conversation reflected core themes of the Machines Can Think Summit 2026, inclusive AI growth, responsible investment, and the UAE’s expanding role as a global AI hub.
About SCAI
SCAI stands for Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence. The company is owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia. SCAI develops AI solutions for government and enterprise use, with focus areas such as smart cities, healthcare, energy, and digital services.
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Interview conducted by Justin Cooke at Machines Can Think Summit 2026