# AI & the New Rules of Innovation: Can MENA Lead the Next AI Era?

- Event: Techne Summit Alexandria 2026
- When: Monday, 5 October 2026, 3:30 pm – 3:45 pm (Cairo time, GMT+3)
- Where: Closing Stage, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria
- Track: Startup Innovation
- Page: https://techne-summit-concept.pages.dev/agenda/ai-and-the-new-rules-of-innovation-can-mena-lead-the-next-ai-era
- Calendar: https://techne-summit-concept.pages.dev/agenda/ai-and-the-new-rules-of-innovation-can-mena-lead-the-next-ai-era.ics

AI is advancing faster than traditional policy frameworks can keep pace. As governments, businesses, and startups across MENA accelerate AI adoption, the region faces a critical question: how do we create an environment that enables innovation while building trust, safety, and accountability? In this fireside chat, Basma Ammari explores the evolving relationship between AI, regulation, and innovation and what MENA needs to do to shape the future rather than simply adapt to it.

## Speakers

- [Lamiaa Melegui](https://techne-summit-concept.pages.dev/speakers/lamiaa-melegui.md), Partnerships and Programms Management, United Nations (Moderator)
- [Basma Ammari](https://techne-summit-concept.pages.dev/speakers/basma-ammari.md), Director of Public Policy, Middle East and North Africa, Meta