The AI in Dubai Conference 2026 is honored to welcome Prof. Michael Allen, Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Zayed University, as one of its distinguished speakers.

Prof. Allen brings decades of academic leadership and international experience to the conference.

He currently serves as Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Zayed University, after previously spending five years as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

His academic career includes appointments at leading global institutions such as the University of Auckland, the University of California at Berkeley, Brigham Young University, and the University of Victoria in Canada.

Trained as a historian, Prof. Allen earned his Ph.D. from the University of Washington and a Master’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley.

Commenting on his participation, Dr. Hikmat Beaini, President of the AI in Dubai Conference, stated:

“Prof. Michael Allen represents the academic leadership we aim to highlight at AI in Dubai, leaders who understand that the future of artificial intelligence in education must be guided by deep historical insight, global awareness, and strong institutional values.”

Prof. Allen shared his perspective on the role of AI in higher education, saying:

“As universities navigate rapid technological change, artificial intelligence offers both opportunity and responsibility. The challenge is to integrate AI in ways that strengthen learning, critical thinking, and global understanding while preserving the core mission of higher education.”