Structured as responses to the UN's survey for the First Global Dialogue on AI Governance, written from a MENA practitioner's vantage point.

Argues that a widening gap exists between global policy language and operational reality, and that success means durable, usable commitments rather than declarations.

Proposes three priorities for the Dialogue: convergence on a baseline governance architecture anchored in ISO 42001, inclusion of the Global South, and clear signals for the private sector.

Sets out four interdependent priority areas for urgent action, led by safe and trustworthy AI and AI capacity-building, noting the region lacks sufficient trained practitioners.

Positions AI governance as a shared professional discipline rather than a geopolitical contest, drawing on the author's ISO 42001 lead auditor experience across the region.