TII and NVIDIA have partnered to launch the first AI & Robotics NVAITC Joint Lab in the Middle East, located in Abu Dhabi. The lab will focus on developing next-generation AI models, robotics platforms, and humanoid technologies. It aims to integrate NVIDIA's computing platforms with TII's research in AI, robotics, autonomous systems, and high-performance computing, including the Falcon family of AI models. Why it matters: This collaboration positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in applied AI and robotics, contributing to the UAE's technological sovereignty and its role in the global AI ecosystem.
VentureOne, part of Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), launched Nabat, a climate tech venture using AI and robotics for ecosystem restoration. Nabat employs drones, AI-powered software, and flexible seeding to conserve and restore mangroves, aiming to cover thousands of hectares in the UAE over seven years. Their technology enables precision mapping, seeding, and monitoring in remote areas. Why it matters: This initiative showcases the UAE's commitment to using advanced technology for environmental conservation and climate resilience, particularly in preserving vital ecosystems like mangroves, while also highlighting the growing AI startup ecosystem in the region.
A professor from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore gave a talk at MBZUAI about "Just-Noticeable Difference (JND)" models in visual intelligence. The talk covered visual JND models, research and applications, and future opportunities for JND modeling. JND can help tackle big data challenges with limited resources by focusing on user-centric and green systems. Why it matters: Exploring JND could lead to advancements in AI applications related to visual signal processing, image synthesis, and generative AI in the region.
KAUST's Visual Computing Center (VCC) hosted an Open House event on March 28, showcasing its interdisciplinary research in visual computing. Demonstrations included a virtual reality driving simulator by FalconViz, intended for driver education in Saudi Arabia. Researchers also presented a drone trained to autonomously navigate race courses and a neural network for autonomous driving using image-based technology without GPS. Why it matters: The VCC's work highlights KAUST's role in advancing visual computing applications relevant to Saudi Arabia, from driver training to autonomous systems.
Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) launched VentureOne, a commercialization arm to bring research solutions to market. ATRC also launched three new specialized research centers in Propulsion, Alternative Energy, and Biotechnology. This brings the total number of deep-tech research entities within ATRC to 10. Why it matters: This expansion signals a major investment in Abu Dhabi's advanced technology ecosystem, aiming to translate research into commercial products and attract global expertise.
The Autonomous Robotics Research Center (ARRC) at TII won the Nanocopter AI Challenge 2022, part of the International Micro Air Vehicle Conference. The challenge involved developing AI-enabled solutions for Bitcraze’s Crazyflie nanocopters to perform vision-based obstacle avoidance. The ARRC team's nano-drone completed a 110m flight in 5 minutes with no crashes in a dynamic environment. Why it matters: This victory demonstrates the growing expertise in autonomous robotics and AI-powered drone technology within the UAE, with potential applications in search and rescue, industrial inspection, and precision agriculture.
G42 and a Vietnamese consortium (FPT Corporation and Viet Thai Group) have signed an agreement to develop AI capabilities and cloud infrastructure across Vietnam. The initiative is backed by consumption commitments of up to $1 billion and aims to support Vietnam's ambition to become a leading AI hub in Southeast Asia. The partnership will deploy cloud capacity across three data center locations in Vietnam to support public and private sector workloads. Why it matters: This marks a significant expansion of G42's footprint in Southeast Asia, fostering AI infrastructure development while respecting national data sovereignty.