AI at NYUAD

 

Artificial intelligence is transforming research, education, industry, and public life. Grounded in more than a decade of interdisciplinary scholarship, AI at NYU Abu Dhabi advances responsible AI research, talent, and innovation. Building on its position in the UAE and NYU's global network, NYUAD is helping accelerate Abu Dhabi's emergence as a global AI hub.

 

News and Highlights

Education

Building the Next Generation of AI Leaders

NYU Abu Dhabi offers a range of educational opportunities including degree pathways, dedicated opportunities for UAE talent, and executive programs designed for organizations and leaders.

The Master's in Interdisciplinary Data Science and AI prepares future innovators with the technical expertise research experience and interdisciplinary perspective needed to lead AI initiatives across academia, government, and industry. 

Undergraduate

BSc in Computer Science

The undergraduate pathway into AI, taught within the liberal arts core. 

Master's Programs

MSc in Data Science and AI (MIDSAI)

The flagship master's at the intersection of AI methods and applied domains. 

Doctoral

Global PhD in Computer Science

A fully funded student fellowship with co-supervision across NYU's global network. 

UAE Nationals

Kawader Research Assistant Program

Hands-on research placements for Emirati undergraduate research assistants. 

Fellowship

Tomoh Fellows AI Strategist Program 

The AI Strategist Program for UAE National Tomoh Fellows. 

Further information to follow

Executive

AI for Organizations and Leaders

Short, intensive AI modules for public and private sector leaders. 

Research

Centers and Labs Working on AI

Across 28 Research Institute centers, labs, and groups, the NYU Abu Dhabi network spans the full AI stack — from fundamental theory to applied, government-facing deployment.

Center for AI and Robotics (CAIR)

Autonomous and embodied systems led by Anthony Tzes, with Farshad Khorrami and Yann LeCun, spanning aerial robotics and control. 

 

Research Areas

Behind the science at NYU Abu Dhabi are researchers across 28 centers and labs, drawing on over a decade of expertise spanning the sciences and humanities with a focus on five core research areas — AI Foundations, Robotics, Responsible AI, Cyber and Quantum, and Human-Centered AI. Together, these foundations spark discoveries and advancements in health, the environment, sustainability, cities, space, and genomics.

Government and Industry

Strong Partnerships. Greater Impact.

Established collaborations with UAE government organizations provide the foundation for new initiatives, stronger connections, and lasting public value.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

From the Lab to the Economy 

Through advanced research computing, industry engagement, and convening, NYU Abu Dhabi drives research translation — working with startAD ventures to turn AI research into economic capability and commercial impact.

Research Translation and Entrepreneurship

Moving discoveries into startups, products, and partnerships through NYU Abu Dhabi's Research Translation and Entrepreneurship office, with support for intellectual property and new ventures.

 

startAD Venture Programs

startAD ignites homegrown innovation and propels the UAE toward a knowledge-based, entrepreneurial economy, in line with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. The AI for Good initiative develops AI-powered applications to widen healthcare access for vulnerable populations across the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Hackathon and Conference

The annual NYU Abu Dhabi International Hackathon for Social Good and the Symposium on Artificial Intelligence for Engineering Innovations bring global talent together to build AI and quantum solutions.

 

High-Performance Computing

Research-grade computing operated by NYU Abu Dhabi's Center for Research Computing, including the Dalma supercomputer. 

AI Engine

Advisory and technical support to accelerate AI projects, connecting them to computing, data, and research partners across the network.

Thought Leaders

World Class AI Expertise

NYU Abu Dhabi's faculty and researchers bring internationally recognized expertise across AI to advance research, inform policy, and develop practical solutions alongside government and industry partners. 

Talent Pipeline

From Classroom to Capability

From degree pathways and UAE talent initiatives to executive programs for organizational leaders, NYU Abu Dhabi’s talent pipeline bridges study and real-world capability. We empower students and professionals to turn education into impact by applying their learning to live challenges alongside government and industry partners, gaining practical experience whilst contributing to meaningful solutions.

Get Involved

Engage with Us

For Government Partners

Build policy and capacity together.

Co-develop applied research, executive cohorts, and talent pipelines aligned with national AI priorities.

For Investors and Industry

Access research, talent, and IP.

Explore licensing, sponsored research, and spinout opportunities from NYUAD's 245+ filed patents.