The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has allocated funding for 24 research projects from 13 universities, reinforcing Dubai’s standing as a global leader in future-ready innovation.
These projects are part of the Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation Grant Initiative (RDI), introduced in September 2024 under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of DFF.
RDI Initiative Advances AI, Robotics in Science and Health
The RDI Initiative focuses on cognitive cities, health, and life sciences, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to drive scientific progress. Khalifa Al Qama, Executive Director of Dubai Future Labs, highlighted Dubai’s commitment to supporting researchers and advancing pioneering scientific and technological breakthroughs.
The initiative funds research at leading institutions, including the University of Dubai, Canadian University Dubai, and Zayed University. Scholars expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, with Dr Sreejith Balasubramanian of Middlesex University Dubai emphasising AI’s role in revolutionising manufacturing and SMEs.
Dr Firuz Kamalov from Canadian University Dubai praised Dubai’s dedication to AI and health research, while Dr Hamzah Alkhazaleh of the University of Dubai outlined his AI-powered project for early Alzheimer’s detection. Prof. Mai ElBarachi of the University of Wollongong in Dubai underscored the potential of AI in transforming electric vehicle ecosystems and supporting sustainable mobility.
