TII & NVIDIA open region's first joint AI robotics lab
New lab to integrate TII's Falcon AI model with physical robotics platforms
#UAE #R&D — Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the global applied research centre of Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has partnered with US-based accelerated computing and AI pioneer, NVIDIA, to la unch the Middle East’s first joint laboratory for artificial intelligence and robotics. The TII-NVAITC (NVIDIA AI Technology Center) Joint Lab will combine NVIDIA’s computing expertise with TII’s robotics research to advance humanoid technologies, next generation AI models, and autonomous systems. The lab positions Abu Dhabi as a leading centre for applied AI, robotics platforms and intelligent systems with global relevance.
SO WHAT? – The opening of the TII-NVAITC Joint Lab is both the first NVIDIA AI Technology Centre to be established in the Middle East and a first-of-its-kind hub in the region for developing and integrating next-generation AI models, robotics platforms, and humanoid technologies. The new centre further boosts Abu Dhabi’s claim to become a global centre for applied AI and creates the opportunity to integrate TII’s Falcon AI models with NVIDIA platforms and robotics systems for potential global use.
Here are the key details about this announcement:
Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and NVIDIA have opened to launch the Middle East’s first joint laboratory for artificial intelligence and robotics, which is the first NVIDIA AI Technology Centre (NVAITC) to be established in the Middle East.
The TII-NVAITC Joint Lab was launched at a signing ceremony in Abu Dhabi, attended by senior leaders from ATRC and NVIDIA.
The new lab will integrate NVIDIA’s accelerated computing platforms with TII’s research in robotics, autonomous systems and AI, including its Falcon large language model family.
It will focus on embodied AI, robotic learning and control at scale, humanoid stacks, and hardware designed for real-time robotics applications.
The lab marks the first time NVIDIA’s global NVAITC network has expanded into the Middle East.
Research priorities include combining language, perception and control in robotic systems to create adaptable and intelligent machines for real-world use.
The initiative supports the UAE’s ambition to strengthen technological sovereignty and expand its role in the global AI and robotics ecosystem.
TII’s existing modular robotic platforms, such as robotic arms and delivery dogs, will provide testbeds for practical research and innovation.
The collaboration builds on recent agreements, including the US–UAE AI Acceleration Partnership, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s growing international role in AI development.
ZOOM OUT – NVIDIA is expanding its partnerships in Abu Dhabi’s AI ecosystem. Last year the accelerated computing leader announced plans to create an Earth-2 Climate Tech Lab in Abu Dhabi in partnership with AI powerhouse G42. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi is home to the most powerful NVIDIA SuperPOD in the Middle East; a 185,712 core, 87.27 PetaFlop system designed for Core42. NVIDIA is also a key partner for G42 Group data centre builder Khazna Data Centers.
[Written and edited with the assistance of AI]