HPE is building a new supercomputer for MBZUAI to accelerate AI research and advance the UAE’s National Strategy for AI. The supercomputer will enhance MBZUAI's ability to run complex AI models and increase predictability in research analyses in fields like energy, transportation, and the environment. The Campus Super Computing Center (CSCC) will house the new supercomputer. Why it matters: This investment strengthens the UAE's AI capabilities and its position as a global leader in AI research and development.
KAUST has selected HPE to build "Shaheen III", a next-generation supercomputer using the HPE Cray EX platform. Shaheen III will be 20 times faster than KAUST's existing system, making it the most powerful supercomputer in the Middle East. The system will support research in areas like clean combustion, Red Sea ecosystems, and climate events. Why it matters: This infrastructure investment will significantly boost AI and scientific computing capabilities in the region, enabling KAUST to tackle complex research challenges.
MBZUAI welcomed 142 students from 34 countries, its largest and most diverse cohort since 2019, with a competitive admission rate of 4.6% out of over 4,000 applications. The new students are pursuing master's and Ph.D. degrees in computer vision, machine learning, and natural language processing, bringing the total student body to nearly 300. MBZUAI also established new robotics and computer science departments to meet global demand. Why it matters: This expansion strengthens the UAE's position as a global AI research hub, attracting top talent and fostering innovation in key AI disciplines.
Abu Dhabi's G42 and MBZUAI are partnering with US-based Cerebras Systems to build an AI supercomputer in India. The supercomputer will leverage Cerebras' CS-2 systems and will be located in India. MBZUAI will contribute AI expertise and research capabilities to the project. Why it matters: The collaboration highlights the growing international partnerships between GCC AI institutions and global technology leaders, expanding the reach of their AI capabilities.
MBZUAI and AWS have announced a multi-year collaboration to advance AI research, enhance technical skills, and accelerate startup growth in the UAE and wider region. AWS will provide cloud services, mentorship, and access to public datasets, while MBZUAI will contribute faculty expertise and lab capacity. The collaboration includes a strategic research program and the launch of GenAI Academy to develop hackathons for MBZUAI students. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens the UAE's AI ecosystem by bridging academic research with industry application and fostering AI talent development.