MBZUAI has launched its first Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program, which blends core AI expertise with leadership and entrepreneurial skills. The program will cover machine learning, NLP, CV, and robotics, alongside cross-disciplinary training in business and finance. It will also integrate AI into the educational journey using a co-pilot education model, enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Why it matters: This program aims to cultivate visionary thinkers and problem-solvers who can drive AI innovation and development in the UAE and beyond.
MBZUAI has established new robotics and computer science departments, launching master’s and Ph.D. programs in each discipline. The new departments will complement MBZUAI’s existing CV, ML, and NLP departments. The robotics department will focus on robot learning and algorithms, while computer science will focus on foundational technologies with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and sustainability. Why it matters: This expansion strengthens the UAE's AI ecosystem and positions MBZUAI as a hub for AI research and innovation, addressing the growing global demand for AI talent.
The Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) has announced strategic partnerships with institutions including the University of Sheffield, Khalifa University, and McGill University. These partnerships include visiting scholar fellowships, graduate programs with internships, and dual-degree programs. These initiatives aim to foster collaboration between AMRC experts and students from around the world, providing access to resources, mentorship, and financial support. Why it matters: This collaboration will strengthen Abu Dhabi's innovation ecosystem and R&D sectors through global knowledge transfer and talent development.
KAUST launched the ShenTech Bootcamp in Shenzhen, China, in collaboration with Shenzhen InnoX Academy, hosting 45 Saudi startup founders and students. The program, which ran from January 4-18, 2024, focused on equipping participants with business strategies and technical skills for developing market-ready products. KAUST also created a master’s degree graduate program: Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (TIE) which includes an immersive startup innovation experience in Shenzhen. Why it matters: This initiative fosters knowledge exchange and collaboration between Saudi and Chinese innovators, aligning with Saudi Arabia's efforts to cultivate a thriving startup ecosystem and develop hardware and software products.
MBZUAI has opened admissions for the Fall 2026 intake for both undergraduate and graduate programs. The university highlights its rapid rise to a global top 10 AI institution in just five years. Early submission is encouraged, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis via the university's online portal. Why it matters: This signals MBZUAI's continued growth and commitment to attracting international talent to advance AI research and education in the UAE.
MBZUAI welcomed over 400 students this semester, including its inaugural undergraduate cohort. The university received over 8,000 applications for its Bachelor and graduate programs, with a 5% acceptance rate. The newly launched Bachelor of Science in AI program offers streams in AI for Business and AI for Engineering. Why it matters: This expansion, particularly the undergraduate program, supports the UAE's National Strategy for AI 2031 and strengthens Abu Dhabi's growing AI ecosystem.
MBZUAI's Associate Professor of Machine Learning, Gus Xia, will co-teach an introductory AI course with Monojit Choudhury, emphasizing experiential learning and fundamental principles. Xia's background spans computer science, music, and metaphysics, aiming to inspire students to innovate in AI. More than 100 students will join MBZUAI's Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program. Why it matters: This interdisciplinary approach at MBZUAI could cultivate a new generation of AI researchers with diverse perspectives and innovative problem-solving skills.
MBZUAI has opened admissions for its M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs in computer vision and machine learning for the Fall 2021 semester. The university previously extended offers to 100 students for its first academic year commencing in January 2021, drawing from 2,223 applicants of 97 nationalities. MBZUAI has also completed its Masdar City campus, secured accreditation, appointed faculty, launched webinars, and formed partnerships with organizations like Virgin Hyperloop. Why it matters: As the first AI-focused graduate university in the UAE, MBZUAI is positioned to develop AI expertise and drive innovation aligned with the country's industrial and economic goals.