The pioneering program blends AI expertise with leadership and entrepreneurial skills, preparing graduates to lead technological advancements worldwide.
The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi has launched a unique undergraduate program that blends AI with entrepreneurship. The program aims to position the UAE as a leader in AI-driven innovation, fostering economic growth and promoting social innovation.
His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of MBZUAI’s Board of Trustees, says that this undergraduate program will play a transformative role in fulfilling our leadership’s vision of ensuring that the UAE continues to lead in AI research, application, and commercialization to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress.
“It will equip the next generation of homegrown talent with deep technical expertise and an understanding of AI’s broader impact. In doing so, it will strengthen the nation’s ability to foster a skilled workforce capable of driving AI advancements that benefit not only our country and the region but the world,” says HE.
President and University Professor Eric Xing shared the vision behind the initiative, stating, “Our undergraduate program will be the first of its kind, integrating AI education with entrepreneurship and practical skills for product development. We are reshaping AI education to produce not just engineers but also entrepreneurs, designers, executives, and visionaries prepared to drive innovation across all sectors.”
Offering a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, this innovative program aims to shape future leaders by combining core technical skills with leadership, entrepreneurship, and hands-on industry experience.
Unlike traditional AI curricula, this Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program blends core AI expertise with leadership, entrepreneurship, industry experience, and real-world impact.
MBZUAI’s curriculum claims it will produce not only technical experts but also visionary thinkers who can drive innovation in diverse industries. The program offers two specialized streams: the Bachelor of Science in AI – Business, focusing on integrating AI into business strategies and entrepreneurship, and the Bachelor of Science in AI – Engineering, which emphasizes developing and deploying AI models.
MBZUAI’s undergraduate program covers foundational AI concepts such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics.
Beyond technical knowledge, the curriculum also includes training in business, finance, industrial design, market analysis, management, and communication. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in various industries.
One of the standout features of the program is its co-pilot education model, where AI plays a central role in enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students will delve into advanced topics like generative AI, deep learning, AI for sustainable living, and AI for health and medicine.
To bridge theory and practice, the program offers experiential learning opportunities through internships, mentorships, and cooperative placements with top AI researchers and industry leaders.
Students will also work on groundbreaking projects like JAIS, the world’s most advanced Arabic large language model, and K2, a highly regarded reproducible LLM.
Smart classrooms equipped with cutting-edge AI computational resources, coupled with guidance from globally renowned faculty members, create an optimal learning environment for aspiring AI innovators.
MBZUAI’s says its mission goes beyond producing skilled engineers; it aims to nurture global leaders who can harness AI for societal progress and economic development.
