TRENDS Research & Advisory, as a part of its scientific pursuits at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024, unveiled a new English book titled “Digital Libraries in the Era of the Metaverse: Security, Privacy, and Machine Learning”. This publication, discussed in a panel discussion, highlights the critical importance of cybersecurity and privacy in this sphere, emphasizing their indispensable role in ensuring a secure and trustworthy user experience.

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of the Cybersecurity Council of the UAE Government, joined the panel discussion held in the TRENDS pavilion at the exhibition, alongside Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, heads of sectors, department directors, researchers, media professionals, and university students.

Moderating the session was Mohammed Al Salmi, Principal Researcher and Head of Research and Advisory Sector at TRENDS, who initially delved into the book’s themes, significance, and TRENDS’ contributions.

Dr. Mohammad Al Kuwaiti commended TRENDS Research and Advisory, applauding their role in knowledge dissemination and staying abreast of new developments. He lauded the book, “Digital Libraries in the Era of the Metaverse: Security, Privacy, and Machine Learning,” as a valuable contribution and insightful resource in understanding digital library advancements amid the metaverse revolution.

Exploring the book’s content, Dr. Al Kuwaiti highlighted the transformation of digital libraries into immersive knowledge hubs within the virtual realm. He underscored the book’s exploration of the intricate interplay between digital libraries, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity within the expansive metaverse landscape, with a particular focus on the United Arab Emirates.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of cybersecurity in digital protection and the advanced capabilities of artificial intelligence, Dr. Al Kuwaiti explained how digital libraries shape experiences, disseminate information, and curate content within the metaverse.

Dr. Mohammad Al Kuwaiti highlighted the comprehensive analysis provided by the book on the evolving role of digital libraries within the metaverse era. These libraries, developing into dynamic reservoirs of knowledge, grant users access to vast arrays of data, resources, and content, significantly shaping shared experiences and information dissemination. Leveraging advanced technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality, the metaverse offers immersive experiences tailored to users’ mounting and changing preferences and behaviors.

Addressing the UAE’s cybersecurity efforts, Dr. Al Kuwaiti underscored the significance of the National Cybersecurity Strategy in fostering a secure cyber environment. Notably, these endeavors propelled the UAE to the fifth rank globally in the cybersecurity index issued by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) of the United Nations.

The book extensively discusses the remarkable advancements in digital libraries witnessed in the UAE, particularly highlighting the establishment of the “Digital Knowledge Hub”. This initiative has significantly enriched knowledge platforms with approximately 200,000 diverse titles across various fields.

Dr. Mohammad Al Kuwaiti outlined a series of recommendations within the book aimed at developing and safeguarding national digital libraries in the UAE. These include integrating emerging technologies such as augmented reality and virtual reality, conducting periodic reviews of protection programs, and training national personnel in alignment with the National Cybersecurity Strategy.

These recommendations, he emphasized, reinforce the UAE’s stature and position as a global hub for innovation and technology.

Following the panel discussion, a book signing ceremony was held at the TRENDS pavilion during the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti autographed copies of his book, which were distributed to attendees.