Dr. Qirong Ho joins MBZUAI as an assistant professor focusing on machine learning systems, aiming to inspire students to specialize in this area. He emphasizes the importance of AI software systems for turning AI prototypes into real products, addressing a skills imbalance in the AI field. MBZUAI is expanding its machine learning department and finalizing its Centre for Integrative AI. Why it matters: This highlights MBZUAI's focus on developing expertise in AI infrastructure and systems, crucial for translating research into practical applications within the UAE and beyond.
MBZUAI has appointed Professor Mohsen Guizani as Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs and Institutional Advancement, bringing over 30 years of academic experience. Guizani previously served as the Founding Associate Vice President for Graduate Studies at Qatar University. He has secured over $30 million in research grants and published extensively in AI, IoT, and cybersecurity. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens MBZUAI's leadership and faculty development, contributing to its goal of becoming a globally recognized institution in AI research and education.
MBZUAI is launching the second edition of its Executive Program, following the completion of its inaugural edition in January. The 12-week program aims to enhance AI capacity building for senior leaders in the UAE across both public and private sectors. The program covers topics such as AI ethics, policy-making, and the future of robotics, and is taught by global AI leaders. Why it matters: This program signals the UAE's commitment to developing national AI leadership and integrating AI into its economic development plans.
UAE University (UAEU) and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) are strengthening research ties through collaboration. A UAEU delegation visited MBZUAI to discuss joint programs and cooperation, aiming to develop academic talent. MBZUAI has 133 students from 40 countries enrolled in graduate programs like computer vision, machine learning, and NLP. Why it matters: This partnership between two leading UAE institutions can help advance the nation's AI capabilities and contribute to its 50-year vision.
MBZUAI President Eric Xing has been elected a fellow of the American Statistical Association (ASA) for 2022. The ASA recognized Xing for pioneering machine learning research in areas like structured inference and probabilistic graphical models, as well as his entrepreneurship and leadership in AI education. He was previously a professor at CMU and the founder of Petuum Inc. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the growing prominence of MBZUAI and its leadership in the international AI research community.
MBZUAI's Executive Program held a module on AI ethics, safety, and societal impacts, led by Professors Tom Mitchell and Justine Cassell. The session covered machine learning bias, privacy, AI's impact on jobs and education, and the ethical use of AI. Forty-two participants from ministerial leadership and top industry executives are part of the first cohort. Why it matters: This highlights MBZUAI and the UAE's commitment to ethical AI development as part of building a knowledge-based economy.
A delegation from Malaysia, including His Royal Highness Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Ibni Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, visited MBZUAI. The delegation toured the campus and discussed potential collaborations between MBZUAI and Malaysian educational institutions. Discussions also covered leveraging AI for societal and economic benefits, and how MBZUAI's curriculum will shape future AI experts. Why it matters: This visit signals growing international interest in MBZUAI and potential partnerships that could foster AI development in both the UAE and Malaysia.
Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) welcomed its inaugural cohort of 78 students from 29 countries in a virtual event. The students have enrolled in Machine Learning and Computer Vision programs, comprising 13 PhD students and 65 MSc students. H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber emphasized the importance of AI in transforming industries, with MBZUAI focusing on R&D across services, manufacturing, and sustainability. Why it matters: This marks a key step in the UAE's strategy to become a leader in AI research and development, particularly in areas that can address critical global challenges.
President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska of Ukraine visited Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi. They met with MBZUAI leadership including President Dr. Eric Xing and Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf. The delegation received a briefing on MBZUAI’s goals and strategies to support the UAE’s vision for a knowledge-based economy and AI leadership. Why it matters: The visit signifies the UAE's growing prominence as a hub for AI research and education on the global stage.
A delegation from the Kyrgyz Republic, including the Ambassador to the UAE and the Minister of Education and Science, visited MBZUAI. The visit included a tour of the MBZUAI campus and discussions on potential collaborations. The delegation expressed interest in increasing the number of Kyrgyz students at MBZUAI and collaborating on research projects. Why it matters: This engagement signals MBZUAI's growing role as a regional hub for AI education and research, extending its reach beyond the GCC.
Kazakhstan's Prime Minister, Askar Mamin, and senior delegates visited Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and were hosted by Professor Eric Xing and Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf. The visit included a tour of the MBZUAI campus in Masdar City and a briefing on the university's goals. Discussion between Mr. Shigeo Katsu, President of Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan, and MBZUAI leadership explored potential partnerships. Why it matters: This visit signals growing interest and potential collaboration between Central Asian nations and the UAE in the field of AI research and education.
A delegation from Luxembourg, including H.E. Franz Fayot, Minister of Economy, and H.E. Elisabeth Cardoso, Ambassador to the UAE, visited MBZUAI. They met with MBZUAI President Prof. Eric Xing, Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf, and Prof. Le Song to discuss potential collaborations. The discussions focused on opportunities between MBZUAI and Luxembourg institutions. Why it matters: This visit signals growing international interest in partnering with MBZUAI, potentially fostering research and educational exchanges.
A delegation from the Embassy of Poland in the UAE met with senior leaders at Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). Discussions focused on potential collaboration opportunities between MBZUAI and Polish institutions. The meeting included Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf, Prof. Le Song, and Reem Al Orfali from MBZUAI. Why it matters: This meeting indicates MBZUAI's continued efforts to expand its international partnerships and foster collaboration in AI research and education.
H.E. Sara Musallam, Chairwoman of ADEK, met with MBZUAI President Prof. Eric Xing on June 16, 2021. They toured the MBZUAI campus in Masdar City and discussed MBZUAI’s vision for AI. Potential collaborations between MBZUAI and ADEK, as well as MBZUAI's role in supporting Abu Dhabi's education ecosystem, were also discussed. Why it matters: The meeting indicates growing alignment between Abu Dhabi's education policymakers and its flagship AI university, potentially leading to new AI-focused educational initiatives.
An interview with MBZUAI President Professor Eric Xing discusses the university's unique focus on AI as a scientific discipline. He emphasizes MBZUAI's role as a global hub connecting AI and data science to various fields. Professor Eric highlights the importance of AI education for economic growth and societal advancement. Why it matters: The interview underscores the UAE's strategic investment in AI education and research through MBZUAI, positioning the nation as a key player in the global AI landscape.
Professor Fakhreddine Karray from the University of Waterloo has been appointed as the new Provost of Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), succeeding Professor Ling Shao. Karray previously served as the co-director of the Waterloo Artificial Intelligence Institute and holds fellowships with the Canadian Academy of Engineering, the Engineering Institute of Canada, and the IEEE. He will collaborate with President Eric Xing to advance MBZUAI's academic and research strategy. Why it matters: This appointment signals MBZUAI's continued commitment to attracting top international AI talent to the UAE and solidifying its position as a leading AI research institution.
MBZUAI welcomed its second cohort of students for the Fall 2021 semester, totaling 74 students across master's and Ph.D. programs. The incoming class includes 41 students in Computer Vision, 24 in Machine Learning, and 9 in the inaugural Natural Language Processing program. The cohort represents 29 nationalities, including 10 UAE nationals, and includes graduates from universities such as Purdue, Edinburgh, and Khalifa University. Why it matters: This demonstrates MBZUAI's continued growth as a global AI research institution attracting international talent to Abu Dhabi.
MBZUAI has launched an Executive Program to help UAE government and business leaders unlock the potential of AI. The program includes six courses delivered by instructors from top academic institutions and global companies. It aims to foster collaboration between government, business, and the scientific community to advance AI development in the UAE. Why it matters: The program reflects the UAE's commitment to becoming a global leader in AI and leveraging it for economic growth.
MBZUAI is launching a 12-week Executive Program to train UAE government and business leaders on leveraging AI. The program aims to equip decision-makers with skills to shape future industries, aligning with the UAE's AI ambitions. It will feature instruction from professors from Oxford, MIT, and Sinovation Ventures. Why it matters: This program signals the UAE's commitment to developing local AI expertise among leadership and realizing its economic goals in the sector.
A delegation from Estonia's Ministry of Education and Research visited Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). The delegation learned about MBZUAI's vision for AI and discussed the UAE's AI ecosystem. They explored potential partnerships and collaborations between Estonia and MBZUAI. Why it matters: This visit signals growing international interest in the UAE's AI capabilities and MBZUAI's role as a hub for AI research and development.
MBZUAI AI Talks hosted a webinar on AI in government, featuring Dr. Mohamed Abdelhameed Al Askar of the Abu Dhabi Digital Authority. Dr. Al Askar highlighted use cases such as machine learning for cardiovascular risk calculation, student performance prediction, and traffic safety tools. The UAE aims for a 60% GDP increase by 2031 through AI, with an estimated AED 353 billion economic benefit. Why it matters: This showcases the UAE's proactive approach to integrating AI across various sectors, particularly in public services and infrastructure.
MBZUAI hosted a senior delegation from Indonesia to explore future cooperation. The delegation toured the MBZUAI campus in Masdar City and the Visitor Center. Professor Eric Xing presented the university’s objectives and strategic plans. Why it matters: This visit indicates MBZUAI's growing role in international AI education and collaboration, particularly with countries seeking to develop their AI capabilities.
MBZUAI hosted a delegation from Ca’ Foscari University of Venice to discuss potential collaboration. The delegation toured the MBZUAI campus and met with Provost Fakhri Karray to explore cooperation opportunities in development and training. The meeting highlighted MBZUAI's objectives and strategic plans. Why it matters: Such collaborations can foster knowledge exchange and advance AI research and education in the UAE.
MBZUAI and the Abu Dhabi School of Government (ADSG) signed an MoU at GITEX 2021 to develop AI training programs for UAE leadership. The programs will focus on integrating AI technologies into governance, industry, education, and healthcare. MBZUAI and ADSG will jointly develop training programs and offer seminars/workshops on key AI research areas. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens the UAE's knowledge economy and supports Abu Dhabi's digitalization agenda by enhancing AI expertise in the government sector.
MBZUAI hosted a webinar by Provost Fakhreddine Karray on "Advances in Operational Artificial Intelligence and Impact on Society." The talk covered AI's origins, advancements with a focus on Operational AI (OAI), and its potential to grow global GDP by 15% as early as 2025. Karray highlighted AI's impact on sectors like healthcare, finance, and transportation, emphasizing its transformative potential and connection to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Why it matters: This event signals MBZUAI's commitment to disseminating knowledge and fostering discussions on the impact of AI across various sectors, solidifying its role as a thought leader in the region's AI landscape.
MBZUAI hosted a delegation from the Commonwealth of Poland, including representatives from the Polish Embassy and Chancellery of the Prime Minister. Discussions covered MBZUAI's objectives, activities, and potential collaborations with Polish entities. The visit included a campus tour and presentation. Why it matters: This engagement indicates MBZUAI's ongoing efforts to build international partnerships and expand its global reach in AI research and education.
A delegation of senior officials from Singapore, including Minister Mohamed Maliki Bin Osman and Ambassador Kamal R. Vaswani, visited MBZUAI. They were hosted by MBZUAI's VP of Corporate Services Ian Matthews, Director of Outreach and Engagement Dr. Hosni Ghedira, and Director of Special Projects, Yun Xu. The visit involved discussions about MBZUAI's achievements and potential future collaborations. Why it matters: This signals growing international interest in MBZUAI and opportunities for partnerships in AI research and education between the UAE and Singapore.
A delegation from Rabdan Academy, led by Academy President James Morse, visited MBZUAI and met with President Eric Xing and other senior leaders. They toured the MBZUAI campus and received an update on MBZUAI activities. Both parties discussed establishing a long-term partnership and exploring future collaborations. Why it matters: Partnerships between specialized academies like Rabdan and research universities like MBZUAI can help align AI education with specific industry and government needs in the UAE.
MBZUAI hosted delegates from the US-UAE Business Council Trade Mission to discuss research and education partnerships. Discussions focused on AI research and collaboration in healthcare, with representatives from Abbott, Johnson & Johnson, and leading children's hospitals participating. Potential personnel exchanges and R&D facility development were also explored during the meeting. Why it matters: This engagement strengthens ties between US and UAE institutions, potentially accelerating AI innovation in healthcare and other sectors.
Citadel Securities CEO Dr. Peng Zhao will lecture on AI, Machine Learning, and the Economy at the MBZUAI Executive Program. Zhao, who holds a Ph.D. in statistics from UC Berkeley, became CEO of Citadel in 2017. The MBZUAI Executive Program aims to support the UAE's mission to become a world leader in AI through education and capacity building. Why it matters: The lecture highlights the UAE's commitment to attracting global expertise in AI and integrating it into its leadership development initiatives.
Stanford Professor Yoav Shoham, a leading AI expert, will speak at the MBZUAI Executive Program. Shoham will present on lingual cognition and intelligence as part of a virtual class session. He has founded several AI companies, including AI21 Labs, and chairs the AI Index initiative. Why it matters: The participation of globally recognized AI experts like Shoham enhances the prestige and educational value of AI programs in the UAE, attracting talent and fostering innovation.
A delegation from Singapore, led by Ambassador Kamal R Vaswani, visited Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi. The delegation toured the campus and learned about MBZUAI's AI vision. Discussions included the UAE's AI ecosystem and potential future collaborations between Singapore and MBZUAI. Why it matters: Fostering international partnerships between institutions like MBZUAI and Singapore can accelerate AI research and development in the region.
MBZUAI will welcome its inaugural cohort of 101 students from 31 countries in January 2021, with 82 in M.Sc. programs and 19 in Ph.D. programs focusing on computer vision and machine learning. The students come from diverse regions, including the UAE (21%), other parts of the Middle East (13%), Asia (38%), Africa (21%), and the Americas/Europe (10%), with 30% female representation. Many admitted students graduated from top universities worldwide. Why it matters: This signals the operational launch of MBZUAI as a global hub for AI research and education, with potential to foster international collaboration and AI innovation in the region.
MBZUAI's President Eric Xing met with École Polytechnique (L’X) and Institut Polytechnique de Paris (IP) leaders to discuss AI research initiatives. The meetings explored potential collaborations between MBZUAI and the French institutions, including the Hi! Paris interdisciplinary center in AI and Data Science. They also discussed strengthening links with private industry and maintaining excellence in research and innovation. Why it matters: This partnership aims to foster international collaboration in AI research and development, potentially enhancing MBZUAI's capabilities and expanding its global network.
H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of the MBZUAI Board of Trustees, visited MBZUAI and discussed the university's role in shaping the UAE's next 50 years. He was briefed on research projects including AI for remote medical care, holographic surgery techniques, and machine learning for enhanced mobility. He emphasized the importance of AI literacy in the UAE government's strategic projects and the university's role in fostering digital, technical, and scientific excellence. Why it matters: The visit underscores the UAE's commitment to AI as a key driver of future solutions and economic progress, with MBZUAI playing a central role in this vision.
MBZUAI celebrated the graduation of 41 leaders from UAE government and business in its inaugural Executive Program. The program, launched in September 2021, included 12 weeks of coursework and collaborative projects. Participants developed AI solutions for employee assessment, net-zero goals, and early detection of cardiovascular disease. Why it matters: The program aims to cultivate AI leadership within the UAE, addressing national challenges and fostering economic transformation.
AIQ and MBZUAI have signed an MoU to collaborate on AI research, particularly for energy sector solutions. The collaboration includes exploring a joint lab, internships and AI training for MBZUAI students at AIQ. They will also explore endowed chair and adjunct professor positions at MBZUAI. Why it matters: This partnership will drive AI technology research, enhance efficiency and sustainability in the oil and gas industry, and nurture the UAE's AI talent.
MBZUAI has received licensing and accreditation from the UAE’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA). This certification validates that MBZUAI's academic programs meet high-quality standards recognized both in the UAE and internationally. Over 1,200 applications have been received for the 2020 intake, with the first class commencing in August 2020. Why it matters: This accreditation marks a key milestone for MBZUAI as it positions itself as a leading AI university in the region, attracting top talent and fostering AI skills development.
A team of MBZUAI students won first place at the HackforSpace hackathon in Dubai, organized by G42 and Coders HQ, where teams created Space Autopilots for Moon Missions. The winning team consisted of Klea Ziu, Nicolas Mauricio Cuadrado Avila, and Roberto Alejandro Gutierrez Guillen. Another MBZUAI team secured third place, with two additional teams receiving honorable mentions. Why it matters: This win showcases MBZUAI's strength in AI and space-related technologies, highlighting the university's ability to foster talent and innovation in strategically important sectors for the UAE.
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, visited MBZUAI with a delegation to tour the campus and discuss potential collaborations. The delegation was received by MBZUAI President Eric Xing, G42 CEO Peng Xiao, and other university leaders. The visit showcased MBZUAI's projects and milestones in AI research and education. Why it matters: High-level visits like this reinforce the UAE's commitment to AI development and signal potential future partnerships between academic institutions and emirates.
MBZUAI President Eric Xing reviewed the university's 2021 accomplishments, including faculty growth with 14 hires from top universities, launch of an Executive Program with 41 participants, and hosting delegations from various countries. MBZUAI's student body now includes 134 students from 40 countries, with the first graduation planned for 2023. The university aims to become a leading AI hub in the UAE through partnerships with government, industry, and educational institutions. Why it matters: This growth signals the UAE's increasing commitment to developing a world-class AI ecosystem and attracting global talent in artificial intelligence.
An Italian delegation led by Ambassador Nicola Lener met with MBZUAI leadership to discuss potential collaborations between MBZUAI and Italian universities. The Ambassador expressed interest in raising awareness of MBZUAI's scholarship opportunities among Italian students. MBZUAI emphasized the importance of partnerships with Italian educational institutes and welcoming Italian students. Why it matters: This collaboration could foster cross-cultural exchange and advance AI research by integrating Italian expertise with MBZUAI's focus on AI education and research.
Sevim Cengiz, a Ph.D. candidate at Boğaziçi University in Istanbul and a research assistant at MBZUAI, shares her experiences as a woman in STEM. She emphasizes the importance of diverse role models and the rewarding nature of academic research. Cengiz credits her Ph.D. supervisor and MBZUAI's Dr. Mohammad Yaqub, along with family support, for enabling her to pursue her career. Why it matters: The story highlights the challenges and opportunities for women in AI in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and support systems to increase female representation in STEM fields.
MBZUAI hosted a virtual Student Opportunities Fair, connecting its AI students with UAE employers. 26 companies including ADNOC, Etihad, Huawei, and Majid Al Futtaim attended the fair. Students explored internships ranging from NLP to big data applications. Why it matters: The event highlights the growing demand for AI talent in the UAE and MBZUAI's role in developing a skilled workforce for the nation's AI ambitions.
MBZUAI hosted delegations from École Polytechnique, KAUST, Costa Rica, South Africa, and South Korea in March 2022 to discuss collaborations on programs, research, and knowledge sharing. Discussions with KAUST focused on enhancing recruitment and research opportunities. The visits also served to showcase MBZUAI's facilities in Masdar City. Why it matters: These meetings signal MBZUAI's intent to establish itself as a central hub for AI research and development through international partnerships.
Rwanda's Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, and Ambassador Emmanuel Hategeka met with MBZUAI leadership to discuss AI's role in Rwanda, particularly in enhancing education through data science. The meeting highlighted MBZUAI's partnerships with G42, Cerebras, and India’s Centre for Development of Advanced Computing. The discussion also touched on inclusive and equitable AI research. Why it matters: This meeting signals growing interest and potential collaboration between African nations and leading AI institutions in the GCC, fostering AI development and application across the African continent.
The King of Malaysia met with MBZUAI leadership, including Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber and Peng Xiao, to discuss potential cooperation in AI development. They discussed MBZUAI's vision and graduate programs, noting applications received from Malaysia and other countries. MBZUAI has received over 7,000 applications since its establishment in 2019 and will offer M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs in machine learning, computer vision, and NLP. Why it matters: This meeting signifies growing international interest in MBZUAI and Abu Dhabi's efforts to establish itself as a global AI hub, fostering potential collaborations between the UAE and Malaysia.
A delegation of senior government officials from Kazakhstan visited MBZUAI in Abu Dhabi. Discussions covered MBZUAI's academic programs, research opportunities, and potential partnerships. The dialogue also addressed the importance of AI and its applications in society. Why it matters: This visit signals growing international interest in MBZUAI as a hub for AI education and research, potentially fostering collaborations between the UAE and Kazakhstan in the field.
A delegation from Belarus and the Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics (BSUIR) visited MBZUAI. Discussions focused on potential collaborations in AI and opportunities for Belarusian graduate students at MBZUAI. The meeting was led by representatives from both the Belarusian embassy in the UAE and BSUIR's research and development department. Why it matters: This visit signals growing international interest in MBZUAI and the UAE's AI ecosystem, potentially leading to future research partnerships and student exchange programs.
MBZUAI has launched a series of monthly educational webinars called "MBZUAI AI Talks" starting July 7. These webinars will be led by MBZUAI faculty and leadership, and are open to the public via video conferencing. The talks will cover AI applications across healthcare, transportation, education, energy, and other sectors. Why it matters: This initiative helps to increase public knowledge and understanding of AI and its potential impact on various industries in the region.