Key Takeaways
- The IIT Madras AI Innovation Centre in Dubai marks IIT Madras’ first AI-focused center in the Middle East, located at Dubai CommerCity.
- The center will support applied AI research and foster collaboration with startups and academic institutions to develop commercial solutions.
- Six startups, with a combined valuation of about USD 118 million, will receive mentorship and technical guidance at the facility.
- The initiative aims to strengthen academic and industry ties between India and the UAE, enhancing the regional innovation ecosystem.
- The launch follows partnerships with Dubai authorities and aligns with IITM Global’s broader expansion strategy in research and entrepreneurship.
The IIT Madras AI Innovation Centre in Dubai has been launched by the IIT Madras Global Research Foundation. The facility is located at Dubai CommerCity in the United Arab Emirates. It marks the foundation’s first artificial intelligence-focused centre in the Middle East.
The centre will support applied AI research and innovation. It will work with startups, industry partners, and academic institutions. The initiative forms part of IIT Madras’ global expansion strategy through IITM Global.
Focus Areas and Startup Support
The centre is designed to promote artificial intelligence, data science, and emerging technologies. It will encourage collaboration between researchers and businesses. The objective is to convert research outcomes into commercial solutions.
Six startups have been selected for incubation at the facility. Their combined valuation is reported at approximately USD 118 million. These companies will receive access to mentorship, technical guidance, and international networks.
The centre will also support knowledge exchange between India and the UAE. It aims to create opportunities for innovation-driven enterprises in the region.
Partnerships and Regional Collaboration
The launch follows cooperation with Dubai authorities. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Economic Development Corporation supported the initiative. Agreements were formalised during GITEX Global 2024.
The project builds on the broader IITM Global Dubai Centre plan. That initiative focuses on research, entrepreneurship, and advanced technologies.
The new centre strengthens academic and industry collaboration between the two countries. It also contributes to Dubai’s efforts to expand its research and development ecosystem in artificial intelligence.