The UAE AI centre officially opened at the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), aiming to advance the nation’s sovereign AI strategy. Consequently, the launch marked a major step toward developing AI technologies for local and global use.
The initiative brings together Lakeba Group, DoxAI, AqlanX, and UOWD. Moreover, the Centre combines research, innovation, and commercialisation to create applied AI solutions supporting government, enterprise, and academic sectors.
The inauguration welcomed key dignitaries, including John M Green, Chairman of UOW Global Enterprises; Abdulla Belhoul, CEO of TECOM Group; Ahmed Hamzawy, Chief Partnership Officer at Microsoft UAE; and Australian diplomats from the Middle East Trade and Investment Commission. In addition, the event highlighted the growing collaboration between public and private sectors.
The UAE AI centre will focus on Arabic Large Language Models, real-time AI decision engines, and AI-driven cybersecurity systems. These projects, therefore, strengthen technological independence while delivering intelligent systems aligned with national priorities.
Giuseppe Porcelli, Founder and CEO of Lakeba Group, emphasized the Centre’s role in transforming research into practical innovation. He added that the initiative also enhances governance, economic growth, and societal benefits through AI applications.
Professor Mohamed Salem, President of UOWD, highlighted opportunities for students, researchers, and entrepreneurs. Furthermore, he stated the Centre equips talent to develop AI solutions addressing pressing local and global challenges.
Marisa Mastroianni, Advisor to UOWD, noted that integrating Lakeba’s commercialisation expertise with academic research ensures efficient innovation. She also emphasized that the Centre generates both knowledge and economic value.
Demetrio Russo, CEO of AqlanX, added that the Centre creates a thriving ecosystem linking research, enterprise, and government. He explained that this approach boosts global competitiveness and measurable societal impact.
Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi of TECOM Group stressed alignment with Dubai’s innovation agenda. Specifically, the AI centre supports the Digital Economy Strategy, Dubai Universal Blueprint for AI, and Education 33 Strategy, reinforcing the UAE’s global AI leadership.
At its launch, the Centre unveiled five flagship AI projects. These include AI-powered talent analytics, sovereign Arabic LLMs, modular AI factories, AI analysis of electromagnetic data, and autonomous cybersecurity risk frameworks. Each project, therefore, demonstrates research-to-market applications.
Microsoft UAE will support the Centre with training and certification programs over the next year. For example, initiatives include AI fundamentals for students and faculty, enterprise-focused learning resources, free certification vouchers, and Women in Cyber programs with G42.
The UAE AI centre highlights the nation’s commitment to technological innovation, sovereign AI capabilities, and workforce development. As a result, its outcomes are expected to enhance both national and international AI leadership.
