MBZUAI Assistant Professor Bin Gu is working on black-box optimization techniques, especially in the context of vertical federated learning. Gu's work, in collaboration with JD.com, aims to enhance data and model privacy in machine learning. He is also focused on large-scale optimization and spiking neural networks to bring machine automation closer to the way the human brain operates. Why it matters: This research contributes to advancements in privacy-preserving machine learning techniques relevant to sensitive sectors like finance and healthcare in the region.
Dr. Hao Dong from Peking University presented research on addressing the challenge of limited large-scale training data in embodied AI, particularly for manipulation, task planning, and navigation. The presentation covered simulation learning and large models. Dr. Dong is a chief scientist of China's National Key Research and Development Program and an area chair/associate editor for NeurIPS, CVPR, AAAI, and ICRA. Why it matters: Overcoming data scarcity is crucial for advancing embodied AI research and enabling more sophisticated robotic applications in the region.
KAUST and the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) signed an MoU to foster investment in SMEs, build a digital transformation strategy, and develop AI initiatives. As part of the collaboration, KAUST will receive a seat on JCCI's Industrial council and provide access to its laboratories and technology. The partnership aims to bridge the gap between research and industry, supporting local SMEs and entrepreneurs in Jeddah. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens KAUST's role in driving economic development and AI adoption in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals for SME empowerment and technological advancement.
Naheed.pk, a Pakistani online retailer, has expanded its services to over 30 cities, offering same-day delivery in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. The company has seen 100% year-on-year growth and aims to capture 5% of Pakistan's retail market share. Naheed.pk focuses on providing genuine products and a trustworthy shopping experience to compete with brick-and-mortar stores. Why it matters: The growth of e-commerce platforms like Naheed.pk signals a shift in consumer behavior in Pakistan and the increasing importance of online retail in the region's economy.
KAUST and Gulf Data Hub, along with Data Hub Tech and Ashi Bushnag Co., held a groundbreaking ceremony on September 18 to celebrate the development of a new data center on the KAUST campus. The data center will be built by Gulf Data Hub in partnership with the Saudi company Data Hub Tech and Jeddah-based design and contracting firm Ashi Bushnag Co. KAUST Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr and Gulf Data Hub CEO Tarek Al-Ashram exchanged gifts during the ceremony. Why it matters: This data center project signifies growing investment in Saudi Arabia's technological infrastructure and KAUST's role as a hub for innovation.
UC Berkeley professor Michael I. Jordan will lead a session on AI, Machine Learning and Economy as part of the MBZUAI Executive Program. The program is headed by MBZUAI President Eric Xing and includes 42 participants from ministerial leadership and top industry executives. The 12-week program aims to support the UAE's AI leadership mission through education, capacity building, innovation, and R&D. Why it matters: The involvement of a prominent academic figure like Jordan highlights the UAE's commitment to attracting global expertise in AI education and solidifying its position as an AI hub.
KAUST and Shenzhen, China, signed several MOUs on September 14 to enhance collaboration in research, education, talent exchange, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The agreements involve Tsinghua University, Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen), and Shenzhen Research Institute of Big Data. The alliances are part of KAUST’s strategy to connect with elite academic institutions and innovation hubs to promote research commercialization. Why it matters: The partnership aims to boost Saudi Arabia's economic competitiveness and elevate its higher education system by fostering scientific research and innovation.
A professor from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore gave a talk at MBZUAI about "Just-Noticeable Difference (JND)" models in visual intelligence. The talk covered visual JND models, research and applications, and future opportunities for JND modeling. JND can help tackle big data challenges with limited resources by focusing on user-centric and green systems. Why it matters: Exploring JND could lead to advancements in AI applications related to visual signal processing, image synthesis, and generative AI in the region.