UAE’s Minister of Economy, Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, has issued a stern warning about Deepfake investment scams regarding circulating videos on social media that falsely claim he is promoting investment in certain shares. Speaking at Gitex Global 2025, Al Marri clarified that these videos are deep fakes and requested the public to verify information only through the official channels.
Al Marri said during a question-and-answer session at the technology expo, “I think you have seen a lot of videos about me investing in some shares and an investment program. I never did that in my life. Please be aware that I will never do it. It is actually a deep fake. “
He further highlighted the importance of technology to detect deep fakes and protect personal and national identity in the digital era. Plus, he added, “We need technology that detects deep fakes to protect me, first of all. But overall, to really save our identity as a human race. That’s an important aspect.”
Al Marri highlighted that the rise of deepfake has become a global concern due to many videos circulating online featuring senior government officials giving fraudulent financial services. Plus, authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are continuously issuing advisories to urge the public to avoid such fake content and to rely on information from the official government sources.
Focus on Non-Oil Economy Growth
During his sessions, Al Marri also discussed the post-pandemic economic progress of the UAE. Plus, he revealed that the non-oil economy of the country has grown from 69 percent five years ago to 77.3 percent today. Looking ahead, he aims to reach 80 percent non-oil contribution over the next five years. Hence, it highlights the commitment of the country to economic diversification.
Al Marri stated, “This is not a race with other countries.”The statement highlights the strategy of the UAE to boost domestic talent and innovation. Plus, he highlighted the important role of Artificial Intelligence (AI)in shaping the economic future of the nation. It is noted that AI is as important to national sovereignty as the investment in defense or cybersecurity.
He said, “AI is a sovereignty for every single nation. So, the race is not across the street or across countries. It is a race within us – how infrastructure is created, talent is groomed, strategies aligned, and SMEs grown.”
AI and Talent as the Cornerstones of Future Growth
Al Marri highlighted that talent development is important to ensuring technological advancement. Moreover, he cited campaigns like 10-year residency visas, the launch of AI University, and investments by companies like G42 as a method to attract and create high-skilled people in the UAE.
He added,” Even if you have beautiful ideas without the right talent to process them, technology cannot progress alone. You need people to help technology help.”
The Minister also highlighted the global economic climate. However, he notes a period of relative stability after the recent geopolitical conflicts. Yet, he highlighted that AI race and talent competition are emerging challenges that nations are required to address proactively.
Protecting UAE Residents from Deepfake Investment Scams
At last, Al Marri repeats his warning regarding Deepfake Investment Scams. He said while responding to a question from Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity at the UAE Government, “Again, anything you see about me, all those videos, it’s not me, it is a deepfake. I will never say invest in X or Y shares.”,
The UAE authorities continue to highlight that residents and investors should stay alert and verify any financial information through the credible source to avoid falling victim to fraud schemes.
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