KAUST, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), will host the second edition of the MENA Machine Learning Winter School (MenaML) from January 24-29, 2026. The program will cover the latest developments in intelligent model engineering, AI for science, and high-efficiency computing technologies with representatives from 16 international institutions. 300 researchers will be selected from over 2,300 applicants to participate in the intensive academic program. Why it matters: The MenaML winter school strengthens KAUST's role as a regional hub for AI research and contributes to human capital development in AI across the MENA region.
KAUST is expanding its Lifelong Learning Initiative, now called KAUST Academy, to meet growing demand for AI and machine learning training in Saudi Arabia. The Academy offers short courses and certificates in STEM fields, targeting both recent graduates and professionals. KAUST faculty and industry partners contribute to the program, which is free for Saudi nationals and residents. Why it matters: The KAUST Academy aims to upskill the Saudi workforce and support the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and 2050 goals by providing accessible, high-quality training in AI and other key areas.
The KAUST Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2024 will take place from January 7-18 with the theme "Digital Adventure – ride to the future." The program will focus on the effects of AI on health, environment, and economies, as well as entrepreneurial and cultural opportunities. Xin Gao and Michael Berumen are the chairs of this year's event, which includes lectures, panel discussions, and workshops. Why it matters: The WEP program provides a venue for cross-disciplinary discussion on the impact of AI and related technologies, fostering innovation and collaboration within Saudi Arabia and beyond.
MBZUAI is hosting a short course on developing open-source machine learning packages. The course will be led by Chih-Jen Lin, an affiliated professor at MBZUAI and distinguished professor at National Taiwan University, who has developed widely used ML packages like LIBSVM and LibMultiLabel. The course will cover topics such as starting a project, choosing functionalities, and identifying research problems from user feedback. Why it matters: This course can help improve the quality and usability of open-source machine learning tools coming from the region's research institutions.
MBZUAI has opened applications for its NextGen Winter Program, a two-week AI literacy program for UAE high school students (Grades 10-12) taking place December 8-19, 2025. The program includes interactive workshops, group challenges, and engagement with MBZUAI faculty, with registration closing on November 19, 2025. This winter edition follows a successful summer program that saw high interest from UAE youth in AI. Why it matters: The program contributes to building national AI capabilities by providing early AI exposure to UAE youth, in line with the UAE's vision for future-ready talent.