G42 announced its intention to develop and implement an enhanced assurance framework to secure U.S.-origin AI semiconductors within its infrastructure. This framework builds on the UAE's participation in the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative. It aims to establish a scalable model for trusted AI collaboration, enhancing transparency and regulatory alignment. Why it matters: The framework could set a precedent for responsible AI deployment and governance in the region, especially for sensitive technologies.
G42 and Cerebras, in partnership with MBZUAI and C-DAC, will deploy an 8 exaflop AI supercomputer in India. The system will operate under India's governance frameworks, with all data remaining within national jurisdiction to meet sovereign security and compliance requirements. The supercomputer will be accessible to Indian researchers, startups, and government entities under the India AI Mission.
This paper proposes a framework for understanding AI sovereignty as a balance between autonomy and interdependence, considering global data, supply chains, and standards. It introduces a planner's model with policy heuristics for equalizing marginal returns across sovereignty pillars and setting openness. The model is applied to India and the Middle East (Saudi Arabia and UAE), finding that managed interdependence, rather than isolation, is key for AI sovereignty.
MBZUAI has launched the Ruwwad AI Scholars (RAIS) program, a postdoctoral fellowship for Emirati Ph.D. graduates to undertake two-year, fully-funded research positions at leading global institutions. The program aims to cultivate local talent in AI and computational research, with the goal of strengthening participants' eligibility for faculty positions at MBZUAI. The fellowship covers a stipend, research funds, insurance, relocation support, and conference travel.
MBZUAI has completed the second edition of its Global AI Leadership Program (GAILP), designed to equip senior UAE decision-makers with the knowledge to lead in an AI-driven environment. The five-day program included leaders from government, industry, and the innovation ecosystem, with sessions focusing on AI fundamentals, data-driven prediction, workforce transformation, and governance. Participants also discussed the ethical considerations for AI usage.