Oman and Jordan are competing to establish themselves as key hubs for AI and data centers in the Middle East. Both countries are investing in infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to attract international tech companies. Favorable geographic locations, stable political environments, and competitive energy costs are helping to drive this growth. Why it matters: These efforts could lead to increased economic diversification and technological advancement in both countries, fostering regional innovation.
UC Berkeley professor Michael I. Jordan will lead a session on AI, Machine Learning and Economy as part of the MBZUAI Executive Program. The program is headed by MBZUAI President Eric Xing and includes 42 participants from ministerial leadership and top industry executives. The 12-week program aims to support the UAE's AI leadership mission through education, capacity building, innovation, and R&D. Why it matters: The involvement of a prominent academic figure like Jordan highlights the UAE's commitment to attracting global expertise in AI education and solidifying its position as an AI hub.
Michael I. Jordan, a renowned AI researcher from UC Berkeley, has joined Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) as a laureate professor and honorary director of the Laureate Faculty Program. MBZUAI President Eric Xing highlighted Jordan's significant influence in machine learning, noting his role as a mentor. Jordan aims to guide AI researchers and advise the university as it seeks to become a global leader in AI. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens MBZUAI's position as a prominent AI research institution in the Middle East by attracting top-tier international talent and fostering a conducive environment for cutting-edge research.
KAUST highlights postdoctoral fellows Yi Jin Liew, Isabelle Schulz, Maren Ziegler and Neus Garcias Bonet outside the University Library. The article mentions King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (1924 – 2015). It encourages applications to KAUST's Discovery Postdoctoral program. Why it matters: This brief announcement signals KAUST's ongoing investment in attracting international research talent to Saudi Arabia.
Michael I. Jordan, a UC Berkeley Distinguished Professor and influential figure in machine learning and AI, has been appointed laureate professor at Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). He will also serve as honorary director of MBZUAI's new Laureate Faculty Program. The program aims to attract leading researchers to MBZUAI by providing resources and minimizing administrative burdens. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens MBZUAI's reputation and enhances the UAE's AI ecosystem by bringing in a world-renowned AI expert to foster research and innovation.
KAUST doctoral student Royale Hardenstine is conducting whale shark research in the Red Sea. The research is captured in a video produced by KAUST. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's ongoing research efforts in marine biology and Red Sea ecosystems.
Todd Nims, a filmmaker born in Saudi Arabia, premiered his film "Joud" at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. The film, set in Saudi Arabia, explores the cycle of life in reverse and the meaning of "Joud" (generosity in the face of scarcity). Nims describes Saudi Arabia as a "magical place" due to its rich storytelling tradition. Why it matters: The article highlights KAUST's role in showcasing cultural works and supporting Saudi artists, though the AI relevance is limited.