Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has teamed up with NVIDIA to launch the Middle East’s first joint laboratory dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.

The TII-NVAITC (NVIDIA AI Technology Center) Joint Lab, announced at a signing ceremony at TII’s Abu Dhabi headquarters, will focus on developing advanced AI models, robotics platforms, and humanoid technologies for the region.

The agreement was signed by TII Chief Executive Dr. Najwa Aaraj and NVIDIA’s Regional Director for Enterprise in the META region, Marc Domenech, with senior representatives from both organizations, including ATRC Director General H.E. Shahab Abu Shahab, present.

The collaboration aims to position Abu Dhabi as a hub for applied AI and robotics research, supporting the UAE’s broader efforts to strengthen technological sovereignty and expand its role in the global AI ecosystem. It builds on initiatives such as the US–UAE AI Acceleration Partnership and aligns with the country’s ambitions in the fast-growing robotics sector.

TII said the lab will combine NVIDIA’s accelerated computing platforms with the institute’s ongoing research in AI, robotics, autonomous systems, and high-performance computing.

The lab is the first NVIDIA AI Technology Center of its kind in the region and will focus on areas such as embodied AI models, advanced robotics, humanoid systems, and real-time hardware for robotic applications. Research will also cover large language models, including TII’s Falcon family of AI systems.

Dr. Aaraj said the partnership would support the development of “AI-enhanced robotic systems capable of reasoning, adapting, and acting in complex environments.” Carlo Ruiz, NVIDIA Vice President for Enterprise Solutions & Operations EMEA, described the initiative as “a new chapter” in the company’s global network of AI technology centers.

The joint lab is part of TII’s broader strategy to advance applied AI research with practical applications. It will focus on open-source development, international collaboration, and integration with NVIDIA’s global NVAITC network, building on TII’s existing modular robotic platforms, including robotic arms and autonomous delivery systems.