MBZUAI launched the Institute of Foundation Models, the MBZUAI Metaverse Center (MMC), and the MBZUAI Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC) at GITEX 2023. The university also signed MoUs with Abu Dhabi Customs and the Department of Municipalities and Transport to collaborate on AI applications. MBZUAI faculty participated in panel discussions on generative AI and large language models, including the Jais Arabic LLM. Why it matters: These initiatives and partnerships signal MBZUAI's central role in advancing AI research, development, and adoption across key sectors in the UAE.
MBZUAI has launched the MBZUAI Metaverse Center (MMC) and the MBZUAI Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC). The Metaverse Center focuses on AI-driven immersive technologies for communication, healthcare, entertainment, and education. The Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center will focus on catalyzing AI innovation and adoption in industry. Why it matters: These centers signal MBZUAI's commitment to expanding AI research and fostering a startup ecosystem in the UAE.
Galaxy Corporation, a South Korean AI and metaverse company, has officially launched its operations in the UAE. This strategic move aims to bolster the UAE's burgeoning AI media ecosystem and leverage the country's advanced digital infrastructure. The company intends to capitalize on the UAE's supportive regulatory framework and strategic location for regional expansion. Why it matters: This development underscores the UAE's increasing appeal as a global hub for advanced technology companies, contributing to its economic diversification and leadership in digital innovation.
AIDRC researchers Dr. Lina Bariah and Prof. Mérouane Debbah co-authored a paper on the interplay of AI and Digital Twin Technology (DTT) for future wireless networks. The paper explores how AI can enhance the reliability and efficiency of DTT, unifying model-driven and data-driven approaches for 6G networks. The research aligns with the UAE National Strategy for AI 2031, aiming to advance the UAE's position in AI and Metaverse technologies. Why it matters: This work contributes to the development of AI-powered Metaverse applications and the advancement of wireless communication technologies in the UAE.
Omantel, an Omani telecommunications company, has partnered with Shaffra to introduce artificial intelligence and Metaverse solutions within Oman. This collaboration aims to bring advanced technological capabilities and foster digital innovation in the Omani market. The partnership is focused on deploying new AI-driven and immersive technologies across the country. Why it matters: This strategic alliance underscores Omantel's commitment to leveraging emerging technologies and could significantly contribute to Oman's digital transformation agenda.
MBZUAI graduates Dhanalaxmi Gaddam and Abbas Bamidele Abdulsalam won DP World’s Big Tech Project with a metaverse-based solution for logistics. Their winning solution uses VR/AR to enhance training and productivity at DP World's ports. They will receive master’s degrees from MBZUAI and commence a paid internship with DP World. Why it matters: The project highlights the growing role of AI and metaverse applications in optimizing logistics and trade across the GCC, which Strategy& projects could contribute $15 billion annually to GCC economies by 2030.
MBZUAI graduate Maryam Mohamed Buty Alghfeli's master's research focused on using the metaverse to enhance intelligent transportation systems and vehicular networks. Her work proposed a framework for sensing, communication, and task offloading in the vehicular metaverse, addressing challenges related to computing and communication resource constraints. The research also considered self-sustainability and proactive learning approaches to improve network operation and serve autonomous vehicles. Why it matters: This research contributes to the development of more efficient and resilient autonomous vehicle networks, which are crucial for the future of smart cities and transportation in the UAE and beyond.
MBZUAI welcomed 45 international STEM students to its month-long Undergraduate Research Internship Program (UGRIP), a 32% increase from its second year. The program exposes students to AI research and faculty, attracting applicants from universities like IIT Madras, Harvard, and Yale. Interns worked on AI projects including digital healthcare metaverse prototypes, baby cry analysis, and LLM generalizability. Why it matters: This program helps to foster AI talent and promote the UAE as a global hub for AI research.