Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has described the UAE as the world’s most forward-looking country for artificial intelligence adoption, highlighting its growing role in the development and use of AI technologies.
Speaking during a panel discussion at ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi, Altman discussed agreements involving OpenAI, ADNOC and G42, saying the partnership could help shape the energy sector through artificial intelligence.
The collaboration comes as AI applications increasingly extend beyond everyday digital services into industries such as energy, where the technology could support more efficient operations and address complex technical challenges.
How AI could transform the energy sector
Altman said artificial intelligence was already changing how people work, with tools such as ChatGPT helping employees complete tasks more efficiently. He also noted that some people were beginning to use AI as a colleague or team member.
He identified scientific discovery as one of the most promising areas for the technology, pointing to recent progress in solving mathematical problems that had previously remained beyond human capabilities.
He said similar developments could benefit other scientific fields, including efforts to address complex challenges in energy production.
AI efficiency and energy demand
Altman also addressed concerns about the energy required to operate AI systems.
He said the energy consumption of individual AI queries was declining as technology became more efficient. However, lower operating costs were also encouraging wider use, increasing overall demand.
He expressed hope that AI applications in the energy industry would deliver benefits that outweigh the energy consumed by the technology itself, potentially helping expand global energy availability.
What AI means for jobs and human decision-making
On employment, Altman acknowledged that AI could already perform many tasks associated with certain white-collar jobs.
However, he expressed confidence that societies would adapt as the technology changes the workplace.
He emphasised that human creativity and judgement would remain important, stressing that people should retain control over decisions.
Altman said artificial intelligence should serve as a tool for people rather than become a system entrusted with decisions about their future.
