TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) is partnering with Imperial College London on a three-year research project focused on trustworthy cloud computing with hardware security. The project aims to design a new trustworthy cloud OS stack leveraging hardware mechanisms like ARM TrustZone. It will explore userspace isolation abstraction while maintaining compatibility with POSIX standards using ARM and RISC-V architectures. Why it matters: This collaboration addresses critical cloud security challenges by integrating hardware-based security solutions, potentially unifying cloud and edge security approaches in the region.
TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has partnered with Khalifa University, the University of Turku, and Graz University of Technology on secure mesh communications research projects. The collaborations aim to strengthen the security of Mesh network technology being developed by TII for machine-to-machine and human-to-human communications. The projects will focus on areas like communication resilience, physical layer security, and secure routing to resist eavesdropping, scanning, malware propagation, and jamming. Why it matters: This multi-party collaboration enhances the UAE's position in secure communication technologies, crucial for cyber-physical systems and autonomous operations in the region.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) have signed a collaboration agreement to deepen strategic collaboration in research, education, and talent development. The partnership includes a Research and Development Sponsorship Agreement and a Framework Fellowship Program Agreement. TII and NYUAD will collaborate on joint research projects across areas like AI, robotics, and quantum science, and TII will sponsor NYUAD students for research in priority technology domains. Why it matters: The partnership aims to bridge fundamental research with real-world applications, accelerate scientific discovery, and develop a pipeline of skilled researchers in Abu Dhabi.
KAUST and the National Center for Palm and Dates (NCPD) have entered a SR100 million agreement for research projects in the date palm sector. The agreement aims to improve production efficiency, develop innovative agricultural practices, and mitigate economic risks to palm trees. KAUST will leverage its expertise to create a genetic atlas for Saudi date varieties and adopt sustainable management practices. Why it matters: This investment highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to its cultural heritage and economic diversification through advancements in a key agricultural sector.
CSAIL (MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory) and the Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) have announced a new research collaboration. This partnership aims to foster joint research projects and facilitate knowledge exchange between the two prominent AI research institutions. The collaboration is expected to leverage expertise from both sides in various AI domains. Why it matters: This partnership signifies a strengthening of AI research ties between a leading US institution and a major Middle Eastern research hub, potentially driving advancements relevant to the region and the broader AI field.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has awarded funding to four research projects aimed at advancing multiple sclerosis research within the UAE. This initiative marks the third cycle of their Research Grant Programme. The funding supports local scientists and institutions in conducting studies related to the neurological disorder. Why it matters: This commitment strengthens the UAE's capacity in medical research, fostering local scientific innovation and addressing critical health challenges in the region.
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with the first 45 Emirati talents selected for the Advanced Technology Research Council’s (ATRC) ‘NexTech’ program. The NexTech program aims to develop Emirati talent in research and technology, aligning with Abu Dhabi's investment in knowledge development. ATRC will empower UAE national talent via outreach, talent scouting, and directing talent to TII research projects. Why it matters: This program signifies a strategic push towards building national competencies in advanced technology and accelerating the UAE's transition to a knowledge-based economy.
Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and the Qatar AI Center (QAI) at Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) are partnering to advance AI research, policy, and capability building. The collaboration aims to support Qatar's National AI Strategy through joint research projects, knowledge exchange, and the development of AI talent. Specific areas of focus include AI ethics, healthcare, and autonomous systems. Why it matters: The partnership strengthens Qatar's AI ecosystem by combining HBKU's academic expertise with QAI's applied research capabilities, accelerating innovation and addressing key challenges in the region.