Mohamed bin Zayed University recently launched two groundbreaking AI centers, the MBZUAI Metaverse Center (MMC) and the MBZUAI Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC). As the world’s first graduate-level university focused solely on AI research, this move reflects the institution’s commitment to harnessing the transformative potential of AI to address global challenges.
The launch of these centers showcases Mohamed bin Zayed University’s dedication to leading AI research and driving national priorities. According to MBZUAI Acting Provost Timothy Baldwin, the university aims to cultivate a thriving AI ecosystem that fosters strong industry partnerships and supports innovative start-ups fueled by the university’s research foundations. The university is excited to explore the limitless possibilities of AI as it empowers talent that will shape the future of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The MBZUAI Metaverse Center is a comprehensive AI research center specializing in the metaverse. It focuses on pioneering AI-driven immersive technologies in various fields such as communication, healthcare, entertainment, and education. By delving into computer vision, generative AI, mixed reality, multimedia, and natural language processing (NLP), the center aims to have a lasting impact on academia, industry, and society. Led by Director Hao Li and Professor Abdulmotaleb El Saddik, the MMC aims to build the next generation of immersive online user experiences, spatial computing technologies, and digital content generation.
The Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center, known as MIEC, is designed to catalyze AI innovation and adoption in various industries. Its initiatives and programs bridge the gap from idea generation to creating start-ups, offering comprehensive entrepreneurship courses, AI engineering support through a unique venture lab model, funding opportunities, computing resources, and real-world insights from successful tech entrepreneurs. With the support of MIEC, aspiring innovators can transform their ideas into thriving commercial realities by turning their start-ups into successful companies.
MBZUAI has already established two new departments and four graduate programs dedicated to robotics and computer science to meet the increasing global demand in these fields. These new programs, which grant both MSc and PhD degrees, further develop the UAE’s AI ecosystem and position it as an international hub for AI research and innovation.
The university’s continued commitment to cutting-edge AI research and education is evident in its impressive faculty and student numbers. With over 250 MSc and PhD students, 200-plus AI researchers, 100-plus alumni, and more than 62 leading faculty members, including six who have their own successful start-ups, MBZUAI is poised to make significant contributions to the field of AI.
Through its innovative AI centers and educational programs, Mohamed bin Zayed University is driving AI adoption, entrepreneurship, and research, making significant strides towards transforming industries and shaping the UAE’s future. As AI continues to evolve and reshape the world, institutions like MBZUAI play a pivotal role in harnessing its potential and finding solutions to global challenges.
Overall, the launch of the MBZUAI Metaverse Center and the Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center underscores the university’s dedication to leading AI research and fostering an ecosystem that empowers innovation and entrepreneurship. With the immense talent and resources at its disposal, Mohamed bin Zayed University is poised to transform industries and contribute to shaping the future of AI.
