arXiv ·
Researchers from MBZUAI have released MobiLlama, a fully transparent open-source 0.5 billion parameter Small Language Model (SLM). MobiLlama is designed for resource-constrained devices, emphasizing enhanced performance with reduced resource demands. The full training data pipeline, code, model weights, and checkpoints are available on Github.
KAUST ·
KAUST Professor Derya Baran and her team at startup iyris have developed transparent solar panels that can turn windows into a source of renewable energy. The technology allows buildings to generate their own electricity, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for sustainable energy. iyris' first customer is the Red Sea Farm, another KAUST-based business, which aims to use the windows to improve plant growth and crop yield. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable urban development in the region, where cooling demands drive high electricity consumption.
MBZUAI ·
MBZUAI's Institute of Foundation Models has released K2, a 70-billion-parameter, reasoning-centric foundation model. K2 is designed to be fully inspectable, with open weights, training code, data composition, mid-training checkpoints, and evaluation harnesses. K2 outperforms Qwen2.5-72B and approaches the performance of Qwen3-235B. Why it matters: This release promotes transparency and reproducibility in AI development, providing researchers with the resources needed to study, adapt, and build upon a strong foundation model.
The National ·
The UAE has introduced new regulations governing the use of Artificial Intelligence within its national elections. These regulations are designed to enhance transparency and maintain the integrity of the electoral process. The initiative addresses potential applications of AI in electoral contexts to prevent misuse and foster public trust. Why it matters: This development positions the UAE as a leader in establishing frameworks for responsible AI governance in sensitive democratic processes, potentially influencing regional and international discussions on AI ethics in elections.
KAUST ·
KAUST led a session at the World Economic Forum's Meeting of the New Champions in Dalian, China, focusing on sustainability science. President Tony Chan and faculty members Peiying Hong, Mohamed Eddaoudi, and Derya Baran presented KAUST's research in water reuse, carbon capture, and transparent solar cells. Derya Baran highlighted KAUST spinoff iyris, which aims to turn windows into solar power plants. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's role as an innovative hub for global research and education, particularly in green technologies, and highlights the university's commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
TII ·
Dr. Abdelrahman AlMahmoud from TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) will participate in a WGISTA webinar on adopting a digital mindset in auditing and fighting corruption. The webinar, organized by the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI), will discuss the impact of emerging technologies on public sector auditing. Dr. AlMahmoud will share insights on how AI and Big Data can enable auditors to process data at a new scale. Why it matters: This highlights the UAE's growing role in applying advanced technologies like AI and big data to improve governance and accountability in the public sector.