Expo City Dubai and Heriot-Watt University have partnered to establish the UAE Robotarium, a state-of-the-art research and development facility dedicated to robotics and artificial intelligence. This initiative, located at Expo City, aims to drive technological advancements and elevate the UAE's status as a global hub for innovation.
The collaboration between Expo City Dubai and Heriot-Watt University will lead to the creation of a world-class research center that brings together innovators from various sectors to support robotics and AI startups, promote the development and commercialization of cutting-edge technologies, and showcase the benefits of automation in urban life. The goal is to incubate transformative solutions that improve communities and enhance the quality of urban living in line with Dubai's Economic Agenda (D33) and the UAE's innovation drive.
Najeeb Mohamed Al-Ali, Executive Director of Expo City Dubai Authority, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing Expo City Dubai's role as an innovation hub and a catalyst for pioneering ideas. By sponsoring PhD candidates at Heriot-Watt University's Centre for Doctoral Training, Expo City Dubai aims to nurture talent, foster the creation of original Intellectual Property (IP), and develop essential tech skills crucial for propelling this groundbreaking initiative forward.
Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, highlighted the importance of collaboration among academia, industry, and government in advancing AI and robotics research. The establishment of the UAE Robotarium not only emphasizes Heriot-Watt University's long-standing partnership with Dubai but also reaffirms the institution's commitment to supporting the UAE's vision for technological advancement and innovation.
The UAE Robotarium is set to play a critical role in enhancing the country's knowledge-based economy, boosting its global competitiveness in AI and robotics, and contributing to key national strategies such as the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the UAE's Industrial Strategy known as Operation 300bn. The signing of the agreement between Expo City Dubai and Heriot-Watt University, in the presence of dignitaries including UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Scotland's Minister for Business Richard Lochhead, and British Ambassador to the UAE Edward Hobart, marks a significant milestone in fostering innovation and technology in the UAE.
Expo City Dubai, recognized for its emphasis on sustainable urban living, acts as a testbed for human-centric solutions that tackle contemporary urban challenges while prioritizing environmental sustainability. Meanwhile, Heriot-Watt University's long-standing presence in the UAE underscores its commitment to academic excellence and research, further solidifying its dedication to driving innovation forward in the region.
