MBZUAI and École Polytechnique are deepening research collaboration through a Collaborative Research Agreement, focusing on large language models, foundation models for reasoning, and AI applications in biology, health, and AI safety. The partnership builds on a previous MoU and Scholars Exchange Program Agreement between the two institutions. MBZUAI's France Lab has developed Atlas-Chat, a family of open-source LLMs for the Moroccan Arabic dialect Darija, with models including Atlas-Chat-2B and Atlas-Chat-9B. Why it matters: This collaboration strengthens the AI ecosystems in both France and the UAE, fostering joint research efforts and supporting the next generation of AI researchers and innovators, with a specific focus on Arabic NLP.
TII Chief Researcher Mérouane Debbah and MBZUAI President Eric Xing visited École Polytechnique in France to discuss AI research and training. They reviewed AI projects and opportunities to increase the visibility of UAE-led research. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between MBZUAI, TII, and École Polytechnique. Why it matters: Such partnerships can foster knowledge exchange and accelerate AI innovation in the UAE by leveraging international expertise.
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.
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.
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.