Lakeba Group, the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), DoxAI, and AqlanX have signed a strategic agreement to launch the Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence, the first initiative of its kind in the Gulf region. The new hub, based in Dubai, aims to accelerate innovation, support local talent, and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global leader in artificial intelligence.
The initiative is backed by the UAE’s NextGen FDI programme, led by His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade. Designed to attract cutting-edge companies and encourage long-term investment in the Emirates, the programme plays a key role in the nation’s digital transformation efforts.
“Through the NextGen FDI Initiative, we are creating a vibrant, dynamic ecosystem that will help us achieve our national vision, attracting the best companies and talents to build their businesses here,” said Dr Al Zeyoudi. “The AI Centre of Excellence will serve as a hub for fostering future generations of AI talent and support the UAE’s efforts in developing the economy and technologies of the future.”
Driving sovereign AI capabilities
More than a research hub, the Centre represents a strategic step towards AI sovereignty. It aims to build critical components of the artificial intelligence value chain within the UAE, from data infrastructure and large language models to region-specific applications.
By nurturing local research and development, the Centre seeks to grow homegrown talent, support early-stage startups, and encourage the creation of intellectual property tailored to the UAE’s language, culture, and economic vision. Rather than relying solely on imported technologies, the goal is to co-create trusted, secure AI solutions that reflect national priorities and can be exported globally.
Planned focus areas include Arabic large language models, automation for key industries such as energy and healthcare, and advanced tools for education. This approach aligns with the UAE’s ambition to shape a responsible and self-sufficient digital future.
A platform for research and enterprise
Located within UOWD, the Centre will operate as a multidisciplinary hub for applied research and collaboration between academia, industry, and government. Its work will cover AI talent development, sovereign R&D, commercialisation of intellectual property, and policy leadership in areas such as digital trust and cyber ethics.
AqlanX will establish its official R&D headquarters within the Centre, supporting the UAE’s National AI Strategy 2031 and its Digital Economy Vision. Lakeba Group will contribute its venture-building expertise and connections with major technology companies, while DoxAI will bring automation and engineering capabilities. UOWD will play a central role in academic research and talent development.
“This is a model of how academia, government, and enterprise must unite — not just to build AI — but to shape the future of civilisation,” said Giuseppe Porcelli, CEO of Lakeba. Demetrio Russo, Co-Founder and CEO of AqlanX, added, “This Centre marks a pivotal moment for the region’s AI future, accelerating innovation by developing home-grown talent, local IP, and deployable solutions that are born in the UAE and built for global scale.”
Strengthening UAE–Australia ties
The project also builds on growing cooperation between the UAE and Australia. During Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to the Emirates in September 2025, leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing technology, education, and sustainability. The partnership between Lakeba Group, an Australian company, and UOWD underscores this relationship and highlights the value of cross-border collaboration.
Marisa Mastroianni, Group CEO and Managing Director of UOW Global Enterprises, said, “The AI Centre of Excellence will strengthen the UAE innovation ecosystem. It will be an engine of opportunity for students, researchers, and industries, and will create enduring value for the nation and its people.”
The Centre’s official launch is set for 17 November 2025, with senior figures from government, academia, and international technology firms expected to attend.
