ADASI has adopted VentureOne's Perceptra, a GPS-less navigation technology, and Saluki, a high-security flight control technology, both developed by the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). These technologies enhance resilience, precision, and security for autonomous aerial operations, addressing vulnerabilities in GPS-dependent systems. The agreement was formalized at IDEX 2025. Why it matters: This deployment of advanced autonomous flight technologies in the UAE strengthens aviation security and positions the region as a leader in resilient, GPS-independent navigation solutions.
MBZUAI has released Jais and Jais-chat, two new open generative large language models (LLMs) with a focus on Arabic. The 13 billion parameter models are based on the GPT-3 architecture and pretrained on Arabic, English, and code. Evaluation shows state-of-the-art Arabic knowledge and reasoning, with competitive English performance.
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 World AI Show Indonesia 2025 will be held in Jakarta, aiming to boost AI adoption across Southeast Asia. The event will feature AI experts, startups, and investors. Discussions will cover AI applications in various sectors including finance, healthcare, and smart cities. Why it matters: The conference highlights the growing importance of AI in Southeast Asia's economic development and digital transformation.
KAUST, CORDAP, and the E1 electric motorboat racing series are partnering to promote sustainable aquatic mobility. KAUST is collaborating with E1 to develop electric motorboat technologies, including next-generation batteries and foiling designs. CORDAP signed an MOU with Westbrook Racing to promote coral reef conservation, and KAUST scientists held panels at E1 events on marine sustainability. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights the potential of motorsports to drive technological advancements in marine sustainability and coral conservation, addressing critical environmental challenges in the region.
Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) has launched AI71, a new AI company building on the Falcon generative AI models developed by TII. AI71 will focus on multi-domain specializations, offering AI data control options for companies and countries looking to self-host for greater privacy. The company will be taken to market by ATRC's VentureOne subsidiary, initially targeting the medical, educational, and legal sectors. Why it matters: AI71 aims to establish Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a major AI player by providing decentralized data ownership and promoting broader access to AI technology.