Our university

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is the first university dedicated entirely to the advancement of science through AI.

The UAE’s visionary leaders established MBZUAI to educate top talent, foster a world-class innovation ecosystem, and serve as a strategic think tank for the public and private sectors.

The University draws inspiration from its namesake, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates.

MBZUAI plays a vital role in advancing the UAE Government’s strategic priorities, with artificial intelligence identified as a critical driver of future growth and prosperity. The University’s vision and mission align closely with national objectives and support Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for the international AI community.

MBZUAI attracts world-class researchers and faculty across computer vision, machine learning, natural language processing, and related fields. Its academic and research initiatives focus on developing transformative AI solutions that deliver real-world impact and shape how societies imagine and build the future.

Licensing and accreditation

Located in Abu Dhabi, MBZUAI holds official licensure from the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) in the United Arab Emirates to award accredited higher education degrees in the following programs:

The Master in Applied Artificial Intelligence (MAAI) program is designed to address the critical skills gap in artificial intelligence (AI) applications within industry. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience, the program equips AI or technology-related professionals working in the UAE with advanced skills for adapting and implementing AI technologies in industry, research, and government sectors.

Uses computational methods to analyze biological data, model complex biological processes, and advanced fields like genomics and personalized medicine. The department’s research focuses on applying AI to biology, with research spanning genomics, medical imaging, and epidemiology. The department will welcome its inaugural M.Sc. and Ph.D. cohorts in 2026.

Covers the foundations of computing, including algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and theoretical principles that underpin technology. The department's research advances AI-driven system design, focusing on efficient hardware, optimized LLM training, edge computing, and secure, privacy-preserving technologies.

Focuses on teaching computers to interpret and understand visual information, enabling tasks like image recognition, object detection, and video analysis. Currently ranked in the top 15 in the world, the department develops visual and vision-language AI models, focusing on robotic vision, generative media, multi-sensor fusion, and trustworthy AI.

Studies algorithms and models that enable systems to learn from data, recognize patterns, and make predictions or decisions with minimal human intervention. Currently ranked in the top 25 in the world, machine learning is our largest department. Its research focuses on adaptable, explainable AI models to tackle challenges in healthcare, energy, and smart cities.

Centers on computational techniques to analyze, understand, and generate human language, supporting applications such as chatbots, machine translation, and sentiment analysis. Currently ranked in the top 15 in the world, the department develops large language models (LLMs) with an emphasis on Arabic and underserved languages, advancing language understanding and developing applications across healthcare, finance, and education.

Explores the design and control of autonomous systems, integrating sensing, mechanical actuation, and intelligent decision-making for robots. With the Robotics Research Lab opening in 2026, the department is currently experiencing a rapid growth phase. The department develops robotic solutions for industrial automation, human assistance, and medical procedures, advancing research across environmental, social, and healthcare domains.

Employs statistical and analytical tools to extract insights from data, supporting data-driven decision-making, predictive modeling, and quantitative research. The department welcomed its inaugural M.Sc. and Ph.D. cohorts in 2025.

An elite program designed for exceptional talents and future leaders with technical and creative talent, ambition, and drive. Offering two distinct streams through a unique 3 +1 model with accelerated coursework and an industry co-op in the final year.

Uses computational methods to analyze biological data, model complex biological processes, and advanced fields like genomics and personalized medicine. The department’s research focuses on applying AI to biology, with research spanning genomics, medical imaging, and epidemiology. The department will welcome its inaugural M.Sc. and Ph.D. cohorts in 2026.

Covers the foundations of computing, including algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and theoretical principles that underpin technology. The department's research advances AI-driven system design, focusing on efficient hardware, optimized LLM training, edge computing, and secure, privacy-preserving technologies.

Focuses on teaching computers to interpret and understand visual information, enabling tasks like image recognition, object detection, and video analysis. Currently ranked in the top 15 in the world, the department develops visual and vision-language AI models, focusing on robotic vision, generative media, multi-sensor fusion, and trustworthy AI.

Examines how people interact with computing systems, designing interfaces and experiences that are intuitive, accessible, and user centered. The department focuses on user interface design, human-agent interaction, VR/AR, and affective computing to enhance AI-driven systems across healthcare, education, entertainment, assistive technologies, and smart city solutions. The department will welcome its inaugural Ph.D. cohort in 2026 with M.Sc. to follow shortly after.

Studies algorithms and models that enable systems to learn from data, recognize patterns, and make predictions or decisions with minimal human intervention. Currently ranked in the top 25 in the world, machine learning is our largest department. Its research focuses on adaptable, explainable AI models to tackle challenges in healthcare, energy, and smart cities.

Centers on computational techniques to analyze, understand, and generate human language, supporting applications such as chatbots, machine translation, and sentiment analysis. Currently ranked in the top 15 in the world, the department develops large language models (LLMs) with an emphasis on Arabic and underserved languages, advancing language understanding and developing applications across healthcare, finance, and education.

Explores the design and control of autonomous systems, integrating sensing, mechanical actuation, and intelligent decision-making for robots. With the Robotics Research Lab opening in 2026, the department is currently experiencing a rapid growth phase. The department develops robotic solutions for industrial automation, human assistance, and medical procedures, advancing research across environmental, social, and healthcare domains.

Employs statistical and analytical tools to extract insights from data, supporting data-driven decision-making, predictive modeling, and quantitative research. The department welcomed its inaugural M.Sc. and Ph.D. cohorts in 2025.

National strategy

AI in the UAE

Through its National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, the UAE Government aims to become a global leader in artificial intelligence by investing in people, talent, and high-impact industries. The strategy sets clear priorities and measurable actions to guide long-term success. The Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office run a host of initiatives to upskill and guide AI practitioners in the UAE. Learn more at ai.gov.ae.

  • UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031

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  • AI Guide - National Program For Artificial Intelligence

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  • 1 Million AI Talents - A Guide

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Meet our leadership

Comprising distinguished leaders from the private sector, government, and academia, our leadership brings a wealth of expertise and strategic perspectives to support Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence’s mission of advancing AI research and innovation.

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Our mission and vision

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence serves as a catalyst for artificial intelligence in the UAE, guided by its mission to advance interdisciplinary AI research and educate future leaders, and by its vision to drive AI-led economic growth and position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for the international AI community.

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Find out about our collaborations

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence builds strategic collaborations with leading universities, government entities, and industry partners to accelerate artificial intelligence research, translate innovation into real-world impact, and support the UAE’s ambition to lead the global AI ecosystem.

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Experience the campus

See what life is like at Masdar City by virtually visiting the campus and its facilities. Get a sense of your place and purpose.

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Explore our programs

The University offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs on full scholarships for exceptional students from around the world.

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Delve into our research

Our faculty and students are focused on fundamental research with an eye for developing practical applications for industry and private sector institutions that will advance the world.

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See How MBZUAI innovates

The University fosters entrepreneurship through support for startups, partnerships and collaborations, unique learning opportunities, tech transfer, and so much more.

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Ready to start your new education journey?

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