The Tahnoon bin Zayed Scholarship in AI Excellence has been established to support undergraduate students at MBZUAI, starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. The merit-based scholarship aims to support approximately 350 students over six years, focusing on mathematical fluency, leadership, and entrepreneurial attitude. Scholarship recipients will have opportunities to represent the UAE at youth events and pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Why it matters: This scholarship program is a significant investment in developing local AI talent and positioning the UAE as a leader in global AI innovation.
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's president highlighted the university's rapid growth in faculty, students, and academic influence in 2022, including rising into the top 25 globally in AI-related fields per CSRanking.org. Faculty published over 350 papers in high-impact conferences and journals and grew by 80% since 2021 to 49 members. The student body also grew, with an increased percentage coming from top undergraduate institutions, and the number of Emirati students rose to 36. Why it matters: This signals the UAE's commitment to establishing a world-class AI research and education ecosystem, attracting global talent and contributing significantly to AI advancements.
KAUST and Abdulrahman Nasser Alagil Sons Foundation (Jarir Investment) have signed an MoU to establish an endowment supporting AI and bioinformatics training programs at the KAUST Academy. These programs target undergraduate students across Saudi Arabia. The endowment aims to develop curriculum, provide resources, and expand training opportunities. Why it matters: This partnership aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals of advancing R&D, promoting innovation, and building national AI capabilities.
KAUST and the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources in Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to launch three specialized academic programs focused on industry and mining. These programs include undergraduate, master's, and doctoral studies, with the aim of developing human capital and fostering innovation in these sectors. The MoU also plans to facilitate the admission of Saudi talents to global universities via scholarships. Why it matters: This partnership aims to align KAUST's research and education with the needs of Saudi Arabia's industrial and mining sectors, supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and technological advancement.
Two of the three Saudi Arabian undergraduates selected as 2022 Rhodes Scholars are current or former participants in KAUST programs. Ahmed, a KGSP student, aims to research Red Sea super corals, while Mohammed Alghadeer, a KAUST summer intern, will study condensed matter physics at Oxford. The Rhodes Scholarship provides full funding for graduate studies at the University of Oxford. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in cultivating Saudi talent in STEM fields and fostering future leaders committed to global challenges.
Three Saudi Arabian undergraduates, all alumni of KAUST's Young Talent Development programs, have been awarded the Rhodes Scholarship for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. The Rhodes Trust selects only 100 international recipients annually. The students participated in programs such as the KAUST Gifted Student Program (KGSP) and the Saudi Research Science Institute (SRSI). Why it matters: This achievement highlights the impact of KAUST's educational initiatives in fostering Saudi talent and leadership in STEM fields.
KAUST hosted the annual STEAM Innovation Challenge with 300 undergraduates from 20 Saudi universities participating. The challenge focused on creating innovative concepts for pressing national and global challenges, particularly around sustainable cities. Winning teams included iCare (pilgrim vitals monitoring), Cure (unused medication redistribution), and EHFADHHA (food demand prediction). Why it matters: Such challenges foster local talent and innovation aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and technological advancement.