Zain KSA has announced the launch of its new Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence. This strategic initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's 'Year of AI,' reflecting the kingdom's national vision for technological advancement. The center is expected to drive innovation and develop AI capabilities within the telecommunications sector and beyond. Why it matters: This establishment signifies a major regional telecom provider's commitment to advancing AI infrastructure and talent, contributing to Saudi Arabia's broader digital transformation goals.
MBZUAI and Silal, an Abu Dhabi-based agri-food company, signed an MoU at COP28 to bring AI innovation to agriculture and food production. The agreement establishes a joint AI Center of Excellence to develop the UAE's food production sector, improve food security, and enhance sustainability. Both parties will conduct joint research, exchange expertise, and support startups focused on improving efficiency and innovation in the UAE’s food sector. Why it matters: The partnership aligns with the UAE's National Strategy for Food Security 2051 and aims to leverage AI for sustainable food production, addressing critical challenges like climate change and resource management.
IBM and MBZUAI have partnered to create an AI Center of Excellence, with the goal of driving sustainability in the region. The center will use AI to monitor, model, and visualize climate change, providing decision-makers with data to address issues like the urban heat island effect. Dr. Fahad Khan, Dr. Salman Khan, and Dr. Levente Klein from MBZUAI are leading the research. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights the UAE's commitment to using AI to tackle critical climate challenges and supports the upcoming COP28 in Dubai.
MBZUAI and IBM have launched an AI Center of Excellence to drive sustainability. The center will focus on developing carbon-neutral energy solutions and improving natural language processing for Arabic dialects. Joint research will focus on decarbonization, climate change mitigation, and foundational AI models to support renewable energy. Why it matters: This initiative addresses critical regional needs in sustainability and Arabic NLP, aligning with the UAE's AI strategy and COP28 goals.
MBZUAI and IBM have announced a strategic collaboration to advance AI research by establishing a new AI Center of Excellence at MBZUAI's Masdar City campus. The center will leverage IBM researchers in collaboration with MBZUAI faculty and students, focusing on advancing both fundamental and applied AI research. The collaboration aims to develop and incubate AI technologies addressing civic, social, and business challenges. Why it matters: This partnership enhances the UAE's AI capabilities, fostering innovation and talent development in critical sectors such as healthcare and finance.
The International Data Corporation (IDC) explores critical strategies for establishing and leading an AI Center of Excellence. It outlines key considerations for staffing, including identifying essential roles and required skill sets, and developing effective leadership structures. The report provides guidance on fostering collaboration, managing talent, and integrating AI initiatives within an organization's broader strategy. Why it matters: Successfully building and operating an AI Center of Excellence is crucial for organizations in the Middle East to drive innovation, accelerate AI adoption, and realize tangible business value from their investments in artificial intelligence.