The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and NVIDIA have joined forces to establish the Middle East’s first Joint Lab for AI and Robotics in Abu Dhabi, focusing on next-generation AI models, robotics platforms, and humanoid technologies. This collaboration positions the UAE as a global leader in intelligent autonomous systems, driving innovation across industries.
TII and NVIDIA launch the Middle East’s first AI and Robotics Joint Lab in Abu Dhabi.
The TII-NVAITC Lab focuses on AI models, robotics, and humanoid technologies.
Integrates NVIDIA’s accelerated computing with TII’s Falcon AI models.
Aims to advance Physical AI, robotic learning, and real-time systems.
Supports UAE’s technological sovereignty and global AI leadership.
Promotes open innovation through global NVAITC network collaboration.
The TII-NVAITC Joint Lab for AI and Robotics, announced at TII’s Abu Dhabi headquarters, marks a historic milestone for the region. The agreement, signed by Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, and Marc Domenech, NVIDIA’s Regional Director for the META Region, integrates NVIDIA’s accelerated computing platforms with TII’s expertise in AI, robotics, and high-performance computing. This collaboration will develop advanced AI models, including TII’s Falcon family, and state-of-the-art robotics systems, positioning Abu Dhabi as a hub for cutting-edge technology.
The Joint Lab focuses on Physical AI, combining embodied AI models, robotic learning, and real-time hardware to create intelligent systems capable of reasoning and adapting in complex environments. Research will span robotic control, large language model integration, and humanoid technology development. By leveraging NVIDIA’s global NVAITC network and TII’s modular robotic platforms, such as robotic arms and delivery dogs, the lab aims to deliver practical, scalable solutions for industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
“This collaboration with NVIDIA marks a major step toward building AI-enhanced robotic systems capable of reasoning, adapting, and acting in complex environments,” said Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII. “By combining our advanced robotic platforms with powerful AI models and compute, we are accelerating the convergence of perception, control, and language – laying the foundation for a new era of intelligent machines.”
The TII-NVAITC Lab aligns with the UAE’s strategy to advance technological sovereignty and supports the US–UAE AI Acceleration Partnership. As the first NVAITC lab in the Middle East, it fosters open innovation through global knowledge exchange and open-source initiatives. “The launch of the TII-NVAITC for AI and Robotics marks a new chapter in our global NVAITC network. By working with TII in Abu Dhabi, we are expanding the scope of these centers into robotics for the first time in the Middle East - helping researchers and innovators accelerate breakthroughs that will shape the future of intelligent systems,” said Carlo Ruiz, Vice President - Enterprise Solutions & Operations EMEA at NVIDIA.
This partnership strengthens the UAE’s role in the global robotics ecosystem, driving advancements in AI and robotics that deliver real-world impact across diverse sectors.
The TII-NVIDIA collaboration sets a new standard for AI and robotics innovation, positioning Abu Dhabi as a global hub for intelligent systems. By integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications, the Joint Lab will accelerate the development of transformative technologies for a smarter, more autonomous future.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) is the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC).
NVIDIA is the world leader in accelerated computing and AI.
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