Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence has launched The Academy, a new initiative designed to bring artificial intelligence research into closer dialogue with culture, creativity and public life. The Academy has been established as a global exchange platform uniting leading thinkers from science, technology and the arts.
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 milestone celebrations, the graduation of the sixth MBZUAI Executive Program cohort and the unveiling of the AI x Arts Fellowship.
The inaugural fellowship cohort comprises eight international figures, 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 focused on collaboration with AI scientists and engagement with the emirate’s cultural institutions.
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.”
Held at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, the launch event showcased artworks from the university’s collections that trace scientific advancement through creative expression.
The Academy also builds on the MBZUAI Executive Program, a 16-week course designed to help senior leaders apply AI to real-world challenges. The most recent cohort included 43 participants from sectors such as healthcare, energy, finance and policy, with more than two-thirds holding executive-level positions.
Leading Capstone Projects were also presented, including an AI-powered personalised longevity companion aimed at improving health outcomes and lowering healthcare costs in Abu Dhabi. More regional news is available at https://abudhabi-news.com/.
