Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) has developed NatiQ, an end-to-end text-to-speech (TTS) system for Arabic utilizing encoder-decoder architectures. The system employs Tacotron-based models and Transformer models to generate mel-spectrograms, which are then synthesized into waveforms using vocoders like WaveRNN, WaveGlow, and Parallel WaveGAN. Trained on in-house speech data featuring a neutral male voice (Hamza) and an expressive female voice (Amina), NatiQ achieves a Mean Opinion Score (MOS) of 4.21 and 4.40, respectively. Why it matters: This research advances Arabic language technology, providing high-quality TTS synthesis that can enhance accessibility and usability of digital content for Arabic speakers.
The paper introduces NativQA, a language-independent framework for constructing culturally and regionally aligned QA datasets in native languages. Using the framework, the authors created MultiNativQA, a multilingual natural QA dataset consisting of ~64k manually annotated QA pairs in seven languages. The dataset covers queries from native speakers from 9 regions covering 18 topics, and is designed for evaluating and tuning LLMs. Why it matters: The framework and dataset enable the creation of more culturally relevant and effective LLMs for diverse linguistic communities, including those in the Middle East.
The Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) has released SpokenNativQA, a multilingual spoken question-answering dataset for evaluating LLMs in conversational settings. The dataset contains 33,000 naturally spoken questions and answers across multiple languages, including low-resource and dialect-rich languages. It aims to address the limitations of text-based QA datasets by incorporating speech variability, accents, and linguistic diversity. Why it matters: This benchmark enables more robust evaluation of LLMs in speech-based interactions, particularly for Arabic dialects and other low-resource languages.
AIQ and MBZUAI have signed an MoU to collaborate on AI research, particularly for energy sector solutions. The collaboration includes exploring a joint lab, internships and AI training for MBZUAI students at AIQ. They will also explore endowed chair and adjunct professor positions at MBZUAI. Why it matters: This partnership will drive AI technology research, enhance efficiency and sustainability in the oil and gas industry, and nurture the UAE's AI talent.
KAUST and THIQAH, a technology company specializing in regulation technology and digital products, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 13, 2023. The partnership aims to foster innovation in the digital landscape through collaborative research and development of data applications and AI. The collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on digital technologies to develop innovative products and solutions while also developing human skills. Why it matters: This partnership between a leading Saudi university and a technology company signals a push towards local innovation in digital solutions and AI, potentially creating new opportunities and advancing Saudi Arabia's technological capabilities.
QRC has developed Qibo, a Python library enabling classical simulation of quantum algorithms with double precision. Qibo leverages hardware accelerators like GPUs and CPUs with multi-threading. It incorporates a multi-GPU distributed approach for circuit simulation. Why it matters: This framework allows researchers and developers in the region to explore and prototype quantum algorithms using existing classical computing infrastructure, fostering innovation in quantum computing research and applications.
VentureOne, the commercialization arm of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has launched QuantumGate at CyberQ in Abu Dhabi. QuantumGate offers data security products, including QSphere (post-quantum VPN, email, file encryption) and Salina (password-less identity management). These products are based on proprietary Technology Innovation Institute (TII) technology. Why it matters: The launch addresses the imminent threat of quantum computing to current encryption methods, providing sovereign solutions for data protection in the UAE.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi has integrated its Quantum Computing Cloud Platform with NVIDIA CUDA-Q. This allows global researchers to submit quantum jobs to TII's physical quantum hardware and simulators using the CUDA-Q programming interface. The integration provides a unified "write-once, run-anywhere" experience for quantum job submission. Why it matters: This partnership enhances the accessibility and performance of TII's quantum computing resources, integrating the UAE's quantum capabilities into the global high-performance computing landscape.