Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) have announced the signing of a strategic agreement to establish the Abu Dhabi Center for the Future of Artificial Intelligence. This initiative underscores the commitment of both institutions to support global efforts in preparing for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and to reinforce the United Arab Emirates’ position as a global hub for innovation in artificial intelligence.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority; His Excellency Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Member of the World Economic Forum’s Board of Trustees; Børge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum; and Larry Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock, who currently serves as interim Co-Chair of the WEF Board of Trustees.
This strategic collaboration aligns with the UAE’s forward-looking vision to lead the global future of AI and strengthen international partnerships that utilize advanced technologies to foster sustainable economic and societal progress.
Under the three-year renewable agreement, the new center will become part of the WEF’s global Fourth Industrial Revolution Centers network. It will serve as a platform that brings together policymakers, private sector leaders, academics, and civil society to design and implement initiatives that enhance national and regional competitiveness in the AI sector.
The Abu Dhabi Center for the Future of AI will focus on building a robust AI ecosystem by supporting cutting-edge research, improving infrastructure, advancing governance frameworks, and accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies. The initiative further cements MBZUAI’s role as a key driver of regional and global competitiveness in this critical field.
The agreement also includes provisions for knowledge sharing and expertise exchange. Center staff will have the opportunity to participate in WEF fellowship programs and global projects. Additionally, the partnership will produce joint research reports and host specialized sessions and events on the WEF’s international platforms.
To support the center’s integration into the global AI landscape, the World Economic Forum will facilitate its connection to WEF’s AI communities and advanced digital platforms, helping to amplify the center’s research output and global impact.
This initiative reflects the UAE’s growing leadership in shaping the future of artificial intelligence and its strategic focus on harnessing innovation for long-term prosperity and sustainability.
