The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi has entered a research agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to explore quantum computing applications using Amazon Braket. TII researchers will leverage AWS's quantum and high-performance computing resources for research in machine learning, computational chemistry, and optimization. AWS will provide support, workshops, and facilitate connections between TII and regional enterprise customers to build R&D partnerships. Why it matters: This collaboration advances TII's mission to develop quantum computing capabilities in the UAE and fosters innovation in AI, drug discovery, finance, and other sectors.
The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) and KAUST have signed a Master Research Agreement (MRA) to collaborate on sustainability research. Prior collaborations included flora and fauna assessments and the Brains-for-Brine Challenge. The MRA focuses on marine environments, waste management, food production, energy conservation, and carbon sequestration. Why it matters: This partnership aims to develop regenerative tourism practices, preserve the Red Sea's biodiversity, and establish a model for sustainable tourism in the region.
MBZUAI and École Polytechnique are deepening research collaboration through a Collaborative Research Agreement, focusing on large language models, foundation models for reasoning, and AI applications in biology, health, and AI safety. The partnership builds on a previous MoU and Scholars Exchange Program Agreement between the two institutions. MBZUAI's France Lab has developed Atlas-Chat, a family of open-source LLMs for the Moroccan Arabic dialect Darija, with models including Atlas-Chat-2B and Atlas-Chat-9B. Why it matters: This collaboration strengthens the AI ecosystems in both France and the UAE, fostering joint research efforts and supporting the next generation of AI researchers and innovators, with a specific focus on Arabic NLP.
KAUST and the King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR) have signed an MoU to collaborate on the diagnosis, management, and treatment of disabilities affecting Saudi citizens and residents. The partnership will focus on neurodevelopmental conditions, learning disabilities, visual impairments, speech disorders, and mobility impairments. KAUST's Center of Excellence for Smart Health, launched on July 1, will be a key component, leveraging its supercomputing resources and genome sequencing capabilities. Why it matters: This partnership aims to address the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and disabilities in Saudi Arabia, aligning with national research priorities and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
Lockheed Martin and KAUST have signed a Master Research Agreement, Lockheed Martin's first international one. Their initial collaboration will focus on integrating KAUST-developed flexible solar cells on UAVs to enhance operational endurance. The collaboration aims to support applications across sectors and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: This partnership signifies a major step in advancing technological innovation in Saudi Arabia, particularly in aerospace and renewable energy applications for UAVs.
KAUST and Boeing renewed their Master Research Agreement (MRA) on September 1. The agreement aims to boost collaborative research on next-generation aerospace technologies. The renewed MRA signifies a continued partnership between the Saudi university and the American aerospace company. Why it matters: This agreement can foster innovation in aerospace within Saudi Arabia and aligns with the Kingdom's broader technology development goals.
MBZUAI and United Al-Saqer Group have signed a 10-year research endowment agreement to advance AI in digital health. The funds will support health research projects at MBZUAI under the name of H.E. Sheikh Mohamed bin Butti Al Hamed. MBZUAI is already conducting research projects in areas like malaria spread, early detection of cardio and fetal abnormalities, and remote patient monitoring. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the UAE's commitment to leveraging AI for healthcare innovation and aligns with Abu Dhabi's 2030 Economic Vision.