MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
The UAE is rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence (AI), with forward-thinking leadership the catalyst for its transformation into a knowledge-based economy.
The Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) is at the forefront of this technological revolution.
During a discussion at XPANSE 2024, Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary General of ATRC and Adviser to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs, explained how ATRC is driving the establishment of an economy that thrives on technology and innovation.
ATRC aims to position the UAE as a global talent hub by attracting international experts in deep tech, while also nurturing local talent to accelerate the development of practical, impactful technologies, he said.
The transformative potential of AI technologies is central to ATRC's vision for a knowledge-based economy.
Al Bannai noted that the UAE is committed to building an open-source ecosystem for AI, ensuring that this technology is accessible to many nations, not just a select few.
The UAE is also investing heavily in quantum computing and quantum communication, ensuring it remains at the forefront of emerging technologies, he added.
In an interview with Aletihad, Dr. Chaouki Kasmi, Chief Innovation Officer at the ATRC-affiliated Technology Innovation Institute (TII) echoed these sentiments.
XPANSE 2024, held in Abu Dhabi for the first time, reflects the UAE's position at the forefront of technological development, he said.
Kasmi noted that the event is a prime example of how the UAE is becoming a global connector for science, technology, and innovation, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration between scientists, artists, and entrepreneurs.
"The UAE's global connectivity and its investment in infrastructure and talent make it an ideal location for such events," he said.
At XPANSE, TII is showcasing its advanced R&D projects, including the Falcon open-source large language model.
Its sister company, AI VentureOne, is featuring AI71, a start-up dedicated to AI solutions.
ATRC's technology programme management and business development arm, ASPIRE is presenting a race car developed for the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League.