MBZUAI's Qirong Ho and colleagues are developing an Artificial Intelligence Operating System (AIOS) for decarbonization, aiming to reduce energy waste in AI development. The AIOS focuses on improving communication efficiency between machines during AI model training, as inefficient communication leads to prolonged tasks and increased energy consumption. This system addresses the high computing power demands of large language models like ChatGPT and LLaMA-2. Why it matters: By optimizing energy usage in AI development, the AIOS could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of AI technologies in the region and globally.
This paper introduces the AI Pentad model, comprising humans/organizations, algorithms, data, computing, and energy, as a framework for AI regulation. It also presents the CHARME²D Model to link the AI Pentad with regulatory enablers like registration, monitoring, and enforcement. The paper assesses AI regulatory efforts in the EU, China, UAE, UK, and US using the CHARME²D model, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.
An article from KAUST discusses the impact of COVID-19 on automation, material science, and VR. It suggests increased automation, voice activation, and motion detection to reduce transmission in public spaces. KAUST faculty member Derya Baran is working on antimicrobial materials for high-touch locations, and KAUST is exploring VR for virtual labs. Why it matters: The pandemic is accelerating the adoption of AI-driven solutions and advanced materials research within Saudi Arabia to address public health challenges.
The article discusses how AI is transforming healthcare, aviation, and agriculture. MBZUAI has launched the Institute of Digital Public Health (IDHP) and partnered with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and Core42 to launch the Global AI Healthcare Academy. MBZUAI has also partnered with Etihad Airways to explore AI applications in aviation and with Silal to bring AI innovation to agriculture and food production. Why it matters: These initiatives signal the UAE's commitment to becoming a global AI hub by integrating AI across key sectors and fostering innovation through strategic partnerships.
KAUST, KACST, and NEOM ERI Foundation will host the fourth Future of Semiconductors Forum in Saudi Arabia on May 4–5, 2025. The forum aims to advance Saudi Arabia's goal of becoming a regional hub for advanced technologies, especially semiconductors, and aligns with Vision 2030. It will convene industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and experts to exchange knowledge, explore collaborations, and showcase the latest semiconductor advancements. Why it matters: This event signals Saudi Arabia's continued investment and strategic focus on developing a domestic semiconductor industry, critical for AI and other advanced technology sectors.
Cisco and KAUST have launched a new AI Institute located at the KAUST campus in Saudi Arabia. The institute will focus on AI research, development, and education, including AI-native communication systems and edge infrastructure for Industry 5.0. Cisco will donate its latest technology, including a Cisco AI POD. Why it matters: This initiative will foster AI innovation and develop a skilled AI workforce within the Kingdom, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and the nation's digital transformation goals.
This paper explores the use of AI and social media analytics to detect sustainability trends in Saudi Arabia's evolving market, in line with Vision 2030. The study processes millions of social media posts, news articles, and blogs to understand sustainability trends across various sectors. The AI-driven methodology offers sector-specific and cross-sector insights, providing decision-makers with a snapshot of market shifts, and can be adapted to other regions.
The Technology Innovation Institute's (TII) Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) will host an in-person seminar titled ‘Additive Manufacturing the Future’ on May 19 in Abu Dhabi. The seminar will offer insights into additive manufacturing technologies and their applications across industries. Global experts will discuss advances and solutions driving Industry 4.0. Why it matters: The event highlights the UAE's growing focus on advanced manufacturing and its potential to become a hub for additive manufacturing technologies in the region.