Dubai: Dressed in traditional Emirati attire, Bu Sunaidah walked across a Dubai residence before taking a seat beside the man behind its creation. Just weeks earlier, the humanoid robot had become the centre of an online debate after footage showed it praying at a mosque, prompting conversations about the intersection of technology and faith.
"Cameras love me," Bu Sunaidah quipped in Arabic when asked if it was ready to be filmed.
Developed by YS Lootah Tech, part of the Emirati SS Lootah Group, Bu Sunaidah is described on the company's website as a "community and storytelling ambassador". The humanoid robot was created to celebrate Emirati culture and connect with people, particularly younger generations.
Yousif Lootah, executive director of SS Lootah Group and chairman of Lootah Biofuels, said the robot was deliberately given an Emirati name to make it more relatable.
"His name is Bu Sunaidah. We named him as a character, you know, to be close to the culture, the Emirati culture exactly."
The robot also has its own Instagram page with thousands of followers and has been designed to celebrate UAE heritage through media events and innovation programmes across the country, according to the company.
The conversation around Bu Sunaidah intensified after YS Lootah Tech released footage showing the robot walking towards Lootah mosque in Dubai and praying inside.
The videos sparked mixed reactions on social media. While some users praised the blend of Emirati tradition and technology, others questioned the robot's presence during prayer.
Responding to the debate, Lootah emphasised that Bu Sunaidah could not be Muslim or belong to any religion. Instead, he described the humanoid as a tool designed to help elders, educate children and support the hospitality sector.
Looking ahead, Lootah said he believes robots will become a common part of everyday life within the next decade or two and that Emirati children should grow up familiar with the technology.
