Scotland and the United Arab Emirates are collaborating to launch the first Robotarium in the Middle East, driving innovation in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
The new UAE Robotarium is being created through a strategic partnership between Heriot-Watt University Dubai and Expo City Dubai.
Inspired by the model of the UK’s National Robotarium, located at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, the UAE facility aims to unite leaders from academia, industry and government.
A focus of the collaboration is talent development, with Expo City Dubai set to sponsor new PhD research positions at Heriot-Watt’s Centre for Doctoral Training in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence.
To formalise the partnership, Heriot-Watt University and Expo City Dubai have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish UAE Robotarium. The agreement was signed by Najeeb Mohamed Al-Ali, executive director of Expo City Dubai Authority, and by Dame Heather McGregor, provost and vice principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
Al-Ali said: “This world-class research centre will attract the best talent to drive transformative solutions that benefit communities and improve the quality of urban living, fully supporting Dubai’s Economic Agenda and the UAE’s position as a global innovation pioneer.”
McGregor said: “For 20 years, Heriot-Watt University has been a leading British higher education institution in the UAE, emphasising our commitment to academic excellence and research.
“We are proud to support the UAE’s bold vision and contribute to strengthening the country’s leadership in automation and advanced technologies.”
In 2023, the UAE Government and Scottish Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing non-oil bilateral trade and promoting collaboration in advanced technology, innovation, education and research.
Plans to replicate the UK Robotarium in the UAE are a result of continued engagement between the UAE and Scottish Government after Expo 2020 Dubai.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: “This is a milestone moment for Heriot-Watt and recognition of its global reputation for scientific excellence.
“Scotland is well-known for its skills in innovation and tech development and our academic institutions are respected around the world.
“This development is a great example of how Scottish expertise can make a global difference and deepens our economic relations with an important international partner.”
Source: Scottish Business Insider