Expo City, Heriot-Watt to create AI & robotics research hub
Advanced robotics hub to drive AI innovation and talent growth
#UAE #R&D - Expo City Dubai and Heriot-Watt University Dubai have joined forces to establish the UAE Robotarium, a state-of-the-art AI and robotics research and development centre. Located at Expo City Dubai, the facility will incubate startups, drive automation solutions, and attract global AI talent. The collaboration will also sponsor PhD candidates through Heriot-Watt’s Centre for Doctoral Training, fostering AI and robotics expertise. The initiative aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33) and the UAE’s broader ambition to position itself as a leader in AI and automation technologies.
SO WHAT? - It has been one of Expo City Dubai’s goals to become a hub for innovation and R&D since long term plans were conceived. However, with a number of organisations announcing plans to open R&D labs and innovations centres in the area, it is still early days. The UAE Robotarium is expected to bring startups and technology professional to Expo City, and make a significant contribution to establishing it as the innovation hub it’s planned to be.
Here are some key points from the announcement:
Expo City Dubai and Heriot-Watt University Dubai are launching the UAE’s first Robotarium to enhance AI and robotics R&D.
The facility will incubate startups and support the development and commercialisation of new robotics technologies.
Expo City Dubai will sponsor PhD candidates at Heriot-Watt University’s Centre for Doctoral Training to ensure a pipeline of AI talent.
The project contributes to the UAE’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, the UAE Innovation Strategy, and Operation 300bn.
The agreement was signed by Najeeb Mohamed Al-Ali, the Executive Director of Expo City Dubai Authority, and Professor Dame Heather McGregor, the Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, and witnessed by key government and business leaders.
Expo City Dubai continues to build international collaborations, including a recent partnership with Korean technology firms to foster entrepreneurship.
The initiative supports Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33) and aligns with the UAE’s ambition to become a global AI and automation leader.
ZOOM OUT - Robotics is a key sector identified by the Dubai government for development. In 2022, the Dubai Robotics and Automation (R&A) Programme was launched. The Dubai R&A set out to prioritise the sector, provide funding for new research, encourage startups and fast-track adoption of robotics and automation in government, the public sector and industry. The new initiative by Expo City and Heriot-Watt University Dubai aligns with the emirate’s wider programme.
Read about Dubai Robotics and Automation (R&A) Programme:
Dubai's new robotics play (Middle East AI News)