The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) will host the GlobalEM high-power electromagnetics conference in Abu Dhabi from November 13–17. The conference, organized by TII’s Directed Energy Research Center (DERC), will feature sessions on sources, antennas, IEMI threats, high energy lasers, and critical infrastructure impacts. GlobalEM brings together experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in electromagnetics. Why it matters: The event strengthens the advanced directed energy domain in the UAE and supports Abu Dhabi's goal of becoming a hub for innovation in mitigating electromagnetic risks.
Marcus Engsig from DERC will present a paper at the MATLAB User Group Meeting in Abu Dhabi on October 6. The paper, titled ‘Generalization of Higher Order Methods For Fast Iterative Matrix Inversion Compatible With GPU Acceleration’, discusses a novel approach to matrix inversion using GPUs. The method, named Nested Neumann, achieves 4-100x acceleration compared to standard MATLAB methods for large matrices. Why it matters: This research contributes to faster computation in numerical and physical modeling, crucial for processing large datasets in various scientific and engineering applications in the region.
Dr. Thierry Lestable, Executive Director of AIDRC, was interviewed at Black Hat USA 2022, discussing AIDRC's projects in Cyber Reasoning Systems (CRS) and infrastructure security. He highlighted the growing availability of AI within system design, advances in LLMs, and the impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity. He emphasized AIDRC's commitment to developing cybersecurity systems and software. Why it matters: The interview showcases AIDRC's contributions to cybersecurity research and development, highlighting the UAE's growing role in addressing global cybersecurity challenges through AI and advanced technologies.
AIDRC researchers co-authored an accepted IEEE Vehicular Technology Magazine article on time reversal for 6G wireless communications. The article presents experimental results on the spatiotemporal focusing capability of time reversal across carrier frequencies. It examines requirements for efficient time reversal operation and synergies with technologies like reconfigurable intelligent surfaces. Why it matters: The research explores advancements in 6G wireless communication, with potential implications for coverage extension, sensing, and localization capabilities in the region.
Suresh Sugumar from TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has completed a year as Chair of the RISC-V Trusted Computing Group (TCG) Special Interest Group (SIG). The RISC-V TCG SIG is focused on defining trusted computing strategies for RISC-V, including confidential computing and trusted execution environments. SSRC's contribution to the SIG team supports zero-trust security and aims to boost the UAE's economic development. Why it matters: This leadership role for a UAE-based researcher highlights the country's growing influence in shaping open-source hardware security standards and contributing to global technological advancements.
Dr. Daniel Benevides da Costa from TII's Digital Science Research Center has been appointed Associate Editor-in-Chief of the IEEE Open Journal of the Communications Society. He will help oversee the journal which focuses on telecommunications systems and networks. Dr. da Costa has extensive experience with IEEE, including being an Associate Editor of the IEEE Communications Letters since 2012. Why it matters: This appointment recognizes regional expertise in communications technology and strengthens the UAE's role in shaping global standards and research in the field.
Researchers at the Quantum Research Center's (QRC) Quantum Communications lab (QComms) achieved a milestone by demonstrating the violation of a Bell inequality using pairs of polarized entangled photons. This achievement serves as a "quantum health check" for their entangled photon source. The QRC team is working to harness entanglement effects in ultra-secure key distribution schemes to enhance secure communication. Why it matters: This advancement validates the application-readiness of QRC's quantum communication devices, paving the way for enhanced security in communication technologies within the region.
The Technology Innovation Institute's (TII) Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) will host an in-person seminar titled ‘Additive Manufacturing the Future’ on May 19 in Abu Dhabi. The seminar will offer insights into additive manufacturing technologies and their applications across industries. Global experts will discuss advances and solutions driving Industry 4.0. Why it matters: The event highlights the UAE's growing focus on advanced manufacturing and its potential to become a hub for additive manufacturing technologies in the region.
Prof. Mérouane Debbah, Chief Researcher at the AI Cross-Center Unit and DSRC, has been ranked No. 1 in France and 180th globally in Electronics and Electrical Engineering by Research.com. He has an H-index of 98 and over 47000 citations. Debbah was also recognized as a 2022 AI 2000 Most Influential Scholar in Internet of Things for contributions between 2012 and 2021. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the growing AI research talent within the GCC region, particularly in areas related to communication technologies and IoT.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) in the UAE has partnered with the University of Pisa to develop electronically controlled surfaces for dynamic broadband radio-absorption. This collaboration aims to test new materials and manufacturing processes for flexible radio-absorbing surfaces suited for harsh environments like the UAE. The project seeks to create smart-shields, active electromagnetic frequency selective surfaces, and electromagnetic energy harvesting surfaces. Why it matters: The partnership accelerates innovation in applied electromagnetics and could lead to advancements in telecommunications, energy, and electromagnetic protection in the region.
DERC is partnering with EPFL in Switzerland on a four-year project using EMTR and ML to study electromagnetic disturbance localization in PCBs. Professor Farhad Rachidi (EPFL) and Dr. Nicolas Mora (DERC) will mentor a PhD student. The collaboration builds on prior relationships between DERC researchers and Prof. Rachidi's lab. Why it matters: The partnership strengthens DERC's methodological expertise and international recognition in electromagnetic studies, potentially leading to further collaborations.
Three researchers from the UAE's Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) are pursuing advanced degrees at the University of Manchester through the Advanced Technology Research Council’s NexTech program. Shamma Alhashmi is pursuing a PhD in chemical engineering, while Mohamed Alnuaimi and Omar BaNabila are working towards master's degrees in Advanced Engineering Materials. Their research focuses on nanomaterials, piezoelectrics, and material damage analysis, respectively. Why it matters: This initiative demonstrates the UAE's investment in STEM education and aims to enhance domestic research capabilities in advanced materials by providing international training opportunities for promising Emirati researchers.
The Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has partnered with the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) to research enhancements and scaling of the seL4 microkernel on edge devices. The collaboration aims to extend the seL4 microkernel to support dynamic virtualization, combining minimal trusted computing base with strong isolation. This will address challenges related to heterogeneous hardware, software, and environmental factors in edge computing. Why it matters: This partnership aims to improve the security of edge devices in critical sectors, addressing vulnerabilities in cyber-physical and autonomous systems.
Technology Innovation Institute’s (TII) Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has joined the Confidential Computing Consortium (CCC). The CCC aims to accelerate the adoption of confidential computing through hardware-based Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) technologies. SSRC will contribute to standardizing hardware-level security capabilities, particularly for secure RISC-V solutions. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens the UAE's position in cyber-physical systems security by enhancing data protection during processing, an area often overlooked in conventional infrastructure.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has become a full member of the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). ETSI is a non-profit organization that develops ICT standards with over 900 member organizations from 66 countries. This membership allows TII researchers to participate in the development and testing of global ICT standards. Why it matters: This move enables TII to contribute to shaping global ICT standards and enhance its competitiveness through the adoption of the latest technologies.
Prof. Luigi Amico of the Quantum Research Center (QRC) has been awarded a US$250,000 Julian Schwinger Foundation (JSF) Grant for his 'Rydberg Atomtronics' project. The project involves experimental sampling managed by Prof. Oliver Morsch’s group in Pisa and will run in collaboration with the University of Catania and the University of Pisa. The grant will facilitate the development of quantum circuits using Rydberg excitations for fast quantum devices and quantum computing. Why it matters: This funding and collaboration strengthens the UAE's position in quantum computing research and fosters international partnerships in advanced technology.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has joined the Wireless World Research Forum (WWRF) as a board member. Prof. Mérouane Debbah from TII will also serve on the Steering Committee of WWRF. WWRF focuses on global wireless research, particularly the evolution and challenges beyond current 5G deployments. Why it matters: This membership allows TII to influence the development of 5G and future 6G telecommunications standards, enhancing its role in shaping the next generation of wireless technology.
Jose Martinez, a Principal Researcher at the DSRC, was named one of Google's Top 20 Chrome Vulnerability Researchers for 2021, ranking 14th. He was recognized for detecting and demonstrating the exploitation of a serious vulnerability in the Chrome browser. This helped Google improve Chrome's security and contributed to safer development practices. Why it matters: The recognition highlights the growing cybersecurity expertise within the UAE and TII's ability to attract global talent in advanced security research.
The Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has obtained membership in the seL4 Foundation. This membership allows SSRC to participate in and contribute to the open-source development of seL4, a formally verified microkernel OS. SSRC aims to research, contribute to, and advance next-generation high-end edge device environments using seL4's capabilities. Why it matters: This move enhances the UAE's capabilities in developing secure and resilient edge computing solutions, fostering innovation in critical sectors like secure communications and drone technology.
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan chaired the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) board meeting in Masdar City. He reviewed ATRC’s first-year progress in R&D and endorsed plans to expand funding for R&D projects in Abu Dhabi. He also toured the Technology Innovation Institute (TII)’s labs and met with students of the NexTech programme. Why it matters: The UAE continues to invest heavily in building out its domestic R&D capabilities and STEM talent pipeline.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) is partnering with Montena Technology to study high-altitude electromagnetic pulses and design infrastructure safeguards. DERC is also collaborating with Radaz to evaluate ground penetrating and synthetic aperture radars in Abu Dhabi, aiming to identify natural resources. Additionally, DERC and Université de Picardie Jules Verne are working on laser sources and sensors, with a DERC researcher spending four years in France. Why it matters: These partnerships enhance DERC's research capabilities in critical areas like infrastructure protection, resource exploration, and advanced sensing technologies.
The 34th General Assembly and Scientific Symposium (GASS) of the International Union of Radio Science (URSI) will be held in Rome from August 28 to September 4. The Technology Innovation Institute’s Directed Energy Research Center (DERC), led by Dr Chaouki Kasmi, will present a tutorial and five scientific papers. DERC's presentations will focus on advances in electromagnetics and optoelectronics. Why it matters: DERC's participation highlights the UAE's growing role in international radio science research and development.
Technology Innovation Institute’s Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) is sponsoring the 8th Euro-Asian Pulsed Power Conference (EAPPC) in Biarritz, France. The conference will cover topics such as pulsed power applications, high power microwaves, particle beam technology, and ultrahigh magnetic field generation. DERC will present its progress on fast discharge technologies with semiconductors and gases. Why it matters: DERC's participation highlights the growing focus on advanced energy technologies and international collaboration within the UAE's research landscape.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has appointed Dr. Ray O. Johnson as its new CEO. Dr. Johnson brings over 40 years of experience in technology leadership, including roles at Lockheed Martin and Bessemer Venture Partners. He will be responsible for shaping TII's strategic direction and leading its growth strategies. Why it matters: This appointment signals TII's commitment to strengthening its position as a leading research and development center in the UAE and attracting top global talent to drive innovation.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) at TII will participate in the 2021 Joint IEEE International Symposium on Electromagnetic Compatibility, Signal & Power Integrity, and EMC Europe. DERC will present scientific papers and a tutorial on Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse (NEMP) with ETS Lindgren, led by Dr. Nicolas Mora. Dr. Mora and Professor Farhad Rachidi will present a tutorial on High Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP), Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP), and Intentional Electromagnetic Interference (IEMI). Why it matters: The participation highlights the UAE's growing expertise in electromagnetic compatibility and protection, particularly regarding critical infrastructure resilience against electromagnetic threats.
Technology Innovation Institute's Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) in Abu Dhabi has appointed international experts to its Board of Advisors. The board includes professors from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Imperial College London, City University of Hong Kong, Monash University, University of Cambridge, University of Sheffield, Khalifa University, and Técnico. The advisors will guide AMRC's research in nanomaterials, energy absorbing materials, additive manufacturing, metamaterials and other areas. Why it matters: The appointments signal TII's commitment to advancing materials science research in the UAE and fostering international collaboration in this critical domain.
Cristofaro Mune and Niek Timmers presented a seminar on bypassing unbreakable crypto using fault injection on Espressif ESP32 chips. The presentation detailed how the hardware-based Encrypted Secure Boot implementation of the ESP32 SoC was bypassed using a single EM glitch, without knowing the decryption key. This attack exploited multiple hardware vulnerabilities, enabling arbitrary code execution and extraction of plain-text data from external flash. Why it matters: The research highlights critical security vulnerabilities in embedded systems and the potential for fault injection attacks to bypass secure boot mechanisms, necessitating stronger hardware-level security measures.
TII's Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) has announced partnerships with Ruhr University Bochum, Helmut Schmidt University, University Clermont Auvergne, and National University of Colombia, Bogota. The collaborations aim to advance research in directed energy sub-disciplines, including radar systems, lightning protection, and high-power electromagnetics. These partnerships will involve research on ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and numerical/statistical methods. Why it matters: This international collaboration strengthens the UAE's position as a hub for advanced technology research and development, particularly in the strategic area of directed energy systems.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII)'s Quantum Research Center (QRC) has developed 'Qibo', an open-source quantum computing programming framework, in collaboration with global researchers. Qibo supports quantum algorithms across different computer systems, including GPUs and multiple quantum devices, and is written in Python and C/C++. The framework aims to run quantum algorithms across different quantum computers and simulators and outperformed other computing languages in initial benchmark studies. Why it matters: This open-source framework can accelerate quantum research and applications in the region, contributing to advancements in areas like AI, finance, and life sciences.
A talk at the Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) at TII will discuss rapid prototyping using laser-cutting facilities available at MakerSpace in Al Zeina. The talk will cover constructing prototypes from wood and acrylic and compare this approach to traditional 3D printing. The speakers will also describe the impact of the ‘4th Industrial Revolution’ on manufacturing in the UAE, and how makerspaces can contribute to Operation 300bn. Why it matters: This highlights the UAE's focus on advanced manufacturing and the role of makerspaces in fostering innovation and developing local capabilities.
TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) in Abu Dhabi has appointed international experts to its Board of Advisors. The advisors have expertise in areas like autonomous computing, cyber-physical systems, and cryptology. The board includes experts from Khalifa University, NYU Abu Dhabi, Dubai Electronic Security Center, and Purdue University. Why it matters: The move strengthens the UAE's cybersecurity research capabilities and aligns with its focus on developing secure autonomous systems.
QRC has developed Qibo, a Python library enabling classical simulation of quantum algorithms with double precision. Qibo leverages hardware accelerators like GPUs and CPUs with multi-threading. It incorporates a multi-GPU distributed approach for circuit simulation. Why it matters: This framework allows researchers and developers in the region to explore and prototype quantum algorithms using existing classical computing infrastructure, fostering innovation in quantum computing research and applications.
Mohamed bin Zayed has established the board of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), which oversees technology research in Abu Dhabi. The ATRC backs the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). TII aims to be a leading global research center pushing the frontiers of knowledge. Why it matters: This announcement signals continued high-level support for advanced technology research and development in the UAE, solidifying its position as an emerging R&D hub.
DERC at Khalifa University hosted a virtual seminar on High Energy Physics and Sensing Technologies, drawing 230 attendees from over 20 countries. The seminar featured presentations from a dozen international scientists on high-power electromagnetics and electromagnetic interference. Future seminars are planned on high-energy lasers, acoustics, and radar/sensing, with support from international universities and scientific societies. Why it matters: This event highlights the UAE's growing role as a hub for international scientific collaboration and advanced research in strategic technology areas.
AI is being implemented across various sectors in the UAE, including banking, aviation, and utilities, to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. Emirates NBD uses AI to analyze customer data for personalized services, while airlines employ AI for predictive maintenance and optimized flight routes. Utility companies are leveraging AI for smart grids and optimized energy consumption. Why it matters: This widespread adoption of AI signals the UAE's commitment to becoming a technologically advanced nation and improving citizen services through AI.
The UAE's FinTech sector is projected to experience substantial growth, with its market value anticipated to reach $5.71 billion by 2029. This significant expansion is attributed to the rapid pace of innovation within the financial technology landscape. The forecast underscores the robust development and investment in digital financial services across the Emirates. Why it matters: This projection highlights the UAE's growing prominence as a regional FinTech hub, signaling substantial opportunities for AI-driven financial solutions and digital transformation.
Supermicro and EHC have partnered to build sovereign AI data centers in the UAE. These data centers aim to support the growing demand for AI infrastructure and services within the country. The collaboration seeks to establish secure and locally controlled AI capabilities. Why it matters: This initiative enhances the UAE's AI infrastructure and supports its national AI strategy by providing sovereign data processing and storage.
Nvidia is expanding its market beyond GPUs with the development of a central processing unit (CPU) based on Arm architecture. This move positions Nvidia to compete directly with established CPU manufacturers like Intel and AMD. The company aims to offer integrated hardware and software solutions optimized for AI and data science workloads. Why it matters: Nvidia's entry into the CPU market could accelerate AI development and adoption in the Gulf region by providing more specialized and efficient computing solutions.
Elon Musk announced that Tesla's project to build a mega AI chip fabrication facility will launch in approximately seven days. The project aims to support Tesla's AI development, particularly for autonomous driving. Tesla has been increasing its investments in AI infrastructure to train large models. Why it matters: This fab could reduce reliance on external chip suppliers and accelerate advancements in self-driving technology in the region and globally.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is supporting Mauritius in developing its national Artificial Intelligence strategy through a broad stakeholder engagement process. This initiative involves consultations with government bodies, the private sector, academia, and civil society to ensure the strategy aligns with national priorities and ethical considerations. The collaboration aims to foster a comprehensive framework for the responsible development and deployment of AI in Mauritius. Why it matters: This demonstrates a growing trend among developing nations, often with international support, to formulate national AI policies that guide technological advancement and promote responsible innovation.
The Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) has officially launched the logo for the "Year of AI 2026" initiative. This program aims to accelerate the development and adoption of artificial intelligence across the Kingdom. Its core objective is to bolster Saudi Arabia's data economy and foster innovation within the AI sector. Why it matters: This launch signifies Saudi Arabia's strategic commitment to positioning itself as a leader in the global AI landscape and leveraging AI for economic diversification and growth.
The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has unveiled the official logo for 'Saudi Arabia's Year of Artificial Intelligence 2026'. This initiative signifies the Kingdom's commitment to fostering advancements and adoption in the field of artificial intelligence. The logo serves as a symbolic representation of Saudi Arabia's strategic vision for its AI future. Why it matters: This announcement underscores Saudi Arabia's continued dedication to establishing itself as a significant player in the global AI landscape and highlights its national priorities for technological development.
Saudi Arabia has become a global leader in data and AI thanks to a six-year effort led by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). SDAIA has launched several initiatives, including the National Strategy for Data and AI, and has worked to attract international investment and talent. The country now ranks among the top nations in AI readiness and adoption. Why it matters: This highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to diversifying its economy and becoming a hub for technological innovation in the region.
Oman's digital economy reached OMR800 million in 2023, demonstrating significant progress towards the nation's Vision 2040 goals. This growth is bolstered by initiatives such as the "Invest in Oman" portal and the national Digital Economy Programme. These efforts are designed to diversify the economy, attract foreign direct investment, and reduce the Sultanate's reliance on oil and gas sectors. Why it matters: This development highlights Oman's commitment to fostering a technology-driven economic environment, which is foundational for the future integration and adoption of AI within the country.
Oman's digital economy has reached RO 800 million, marking a significant contribution to the Sultanate's Vision 2040 diversification goals. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology is actively developing the digital economy through several initiatives. These efforts aim to enhance digital infrastructure, promote e-commerce, and foster technological innovation across various sectors. Why it matters: This growth signals Oman's progress in diversifying its economy away from hydrocarbons and embracing digital transformation to achieve its long-term development objectives.
The Chief of Robo.ai elaborates on why the United Arab Emirates remains a prime location for the development and growth of businesses operating within the 'Machine Economy'. The article likely highlights the supportive regulatory environment, robust infrastructure, and significant investment opportunities available in the UAE. It positions the nation as an ideal hub for AI and robotics startups and established companies seeking to innovate and scale. Why it matters: This perspective underscores the UAE's strategic efforts and success in attracting advanced technology enterprises, reinforcing its ambition to be a global leader in the AI and automation sectors.
The Chief of Robo.ai expressed the view that the United Arab Emirates continues to be an ideal launchpad for the 'Machine Economy'. This perspective likely emphasizes the UAE's robust technological infrastructure, supportive regulatory environment, and strategic government initiatives in advanced technologies. The statement positions the nation as a key global hub for the development and deployment of robotics and artificial intelligence solutions. Why it matters: This highlights the UAE's deliberate efforts to cultivate a competitive ecosystem for emerging technologies and attract international AI and robotics businesses.
A recent Fortune article discusses the potential vulnerability of Gulf data centers, including those operated by Amazon, to drone attacks. Experts suggest that Iranian-backed groups may employ such tactics in future regional conflicts. The hypothetical scenario raises concerns about data security and infrastructure resilience in the region. Why it matters: Highlights the increasing importance of protecting critical digital infrastructure in the GCC from emerging security threats.
Big Tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon have invested heavily in cloud infrastructure and AI initiatives in the Persian Gulf region, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. However, these companies face increasing scrutiny over data security, censorship, and potential misuse of AI technologies by governments with questionable human rights records. Governments in the region are also seeking greater control over data and technology, potentially leading to conflicts with Big Tech's global business models. Why it matters: The evolving dynamics could reshape the AI landscape in the Gulf, impacting data governance, technological autonomy, and the ethical deployment of AI.
Qatar has achieved a top-tier position in the latest global AI Adoption Index, reflecting its significant progress in integrating artificial intelligence across various sectors. This ranking indicates the nation's readiness for AI transformation and its strategic initiatives in AI development and deployment. The index assesses national capabilities and the successful implementation of AI technologies within the country. Why it matters: This recognition highlights Qatar's commitment to advancing its digital economy and positions it as a regional leader in AI integration and innovation.