Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence has formally introduced The Academy, a new platform aimed at advancing how artificial intelligence knowledge is shared and debated on a global stage. The initiative brings together technology, creativity and leadership to explore AI’s impact beyond traditional academic boundaries.
The launch was attended by His Excellency Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Member of the MBZUAI Board of Trustees, alongside Professor Eric Xing, President and University Professor at MBZUAI. The announcement coincided with the university’s five-year anniversary celebrations, the graduation of the sixth MBZUAI Executive Program cohort and the debut of the AI x Arts Fellowship.
Eight fellows form the first cohort of the fellowship, including Refik Anadol, James Gerde, Emi Kusano and Lachlan Turczan. They are joined by Amrita Sethi, Daniel Ambrosi, Ahmad AlAttar and curator Giuseppe Moscatello. In 2026, the fellows will take part in two residencies in Abu Dhabi, collaborating with AI researchers and cultural organisations across the emirate.
Spring Chunxiao Fu, Managing Director at the MBZUAI Academy said: “The launch of The Academy reflects the mission of Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence to move AI beyond the laboratory and into the heart of society. By bringing together the world’s greatest minds – from the artists in our new fellowship to the leaders in our executive programmes – we hope to shape the narratives and elevate the global conversation beyond technology to purpose and impact, while contributing to Abu Dhabi’s ambitious role in the global AI landscape.”
The launch event was held at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, where guests viewed selected works from MBZUAI’s collections documenting the cultural interpretation of scientific progress.
The Academy also builds on the MBZUAI Executive Program, a 16-week initiative designed to help senior leaders leverage AI for national and organisational priorities.
The event also showcased Leading Capstone Projects, including an AI-powered personalised longevity companion developed to enhance health outcomes in Abu Dhabi. More regional news is available at https://abudhabi-news.com/.
