Google teams up with UAE organisations for AI research and sustainability initiatives

The announcement was made during an event at the MBZUAI campus, where Google introduced three significant initiatives

May 25, 2023

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Google has unveiled its support for artificial intelligence (AI) endeavours and sustainability initiatives in the UAE, forging partnerships with key organisations such as Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi, and the Ministry of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications.

The announcement was made during an event at the MBZUAI campus, where Google introduced three significant initiatives.

Firstly, Google will provide research awards to MBZUAI faculty members, with a focus on enhancing Arabic representation in AI foundation models that address sustainability and climate change’s societal impact.

In addition to financial backing, Google will extend support in the form of cloud computing, data analytics and machine learning resources. Furthermore, MBZUAI faculty will have the opportunity to collaborate and exchange knowledge with Google researchers and engineers.

Secondly, in conjunction with the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi, Google will introduce “Project Green Light.”

This initiative involves implementing machine learning technology to optimise traffic lights at intersections, thereby reducing stop-and-go traffic that contributes to pollution in urban areas.

By modelling traffic patterns and providing intelligent recommendations for traffic plan modifications, such as adjusting green time during specific hours, congestion and greenhouse gas emissions can be minimised, ultimately improving traffic flow and air quality within the city.

Lastly, Google and the UAE Ministry of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications will jointly host the “AI Majlis Series.” These quarterly private Majlis sessions will serve as platforms for leaders from Google, the government, academia, and business sectors in the UAE to discuss and advance AI principles and policies.

The inaugural AI Majlis, centered around responsible innovation, will feature prominent figures including Omar Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in the UAE and Karan Bhatia, global VP of Public Policy and Government Relations at Google.

Subsequent sessions will explore AI’s impact on sustainability, healthcare, and the future of work.

Bhatia said: “Seven years into Google’s journey as an AI-first company, we’re at an exciting inflection point. We have an opportunity to make AI even more helpful for people, for businesses, for communities, for everyone.

Building this transformational technology responsibly must be a collective effort that involves researchers, social scientists, industry experts, governments, and people. There is so much we can accomplish and so much we must get right- together.

There’s significant value in collaborative leadership in AI and we look forward to doing more with local partners in the UAE and to help advance AI research and solutions that meets the needs of the country.”

MBZUAI vice president of Public Affairs and Alumni Relations, Sultan Al Hajji, added: “AI research and development is central to the UAE’s economic diversification, sustainable growth and global competitiveness strategy, and partnerships with key industry leaders are important for the continued application of the university’s pioneering research.”

Mohamed Karmastaji, executive director of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Sector at Integrated Transport Centre, stated: “Project Green Light is a pilot project to develop an AI tool to harvest critical data on traffic conditions at intersections which will automatically optimize the efficiency of traffic light functions, helping to reduce vehicle congestion hot-spots and thus improve air quality across the emirate by lowering carbon emissions.

Through continued partnerships like this with government bodies, private sector partners, and community stakeholders, we are shaping a future where congestion is minimized, air quality is improved and our cities thrive in harmony with the environment.

With the launch of new AI tools, we are taking a significant step towards enhancing the daily commute experience for residents. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our city, and we look forward to collaborating with stakeholders to create a sustainable, intelligent transportation system.”