Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence has announced the launch of The Academy, a new global initiative designed to deepen understanding of artificial intelligence by connecting technological innovation with cultural and societal perspectives.

The launch was held in the presence of His Excellency Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Member of the MBZUAI Board of Trustees, and Professor Eric Xing, President and University Professor at MBZUAI. The event formed part of the university’s five-year anniversary celebrations and coincided with the graduation of the sixth MBZUAI Executive Program cohort and the announcement of its AI x Arts Fellowship.

Eight fellows make up the inaugural AI x Arts Fellowship cohort, including Refik Anadol, James Gerde, Emi Kusano and Lachlan Turczan. They are joined by Amrita Sethi, Daniel Ambrosi, Ahmad AlAttar and curator Giuseppe Moscatello. Two residencies planned for 2026 will enable collaboration with AI researchers and engagement with Abu Dhabi’s cultural ecosystem.

Spring Chunxiao Fu, Managing Director at the MBZUAI Academy said: “The launch of The Academy reflects the mission of Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence to move AI beyond the laboratory and into the heart of society. By bringing together the world’s greatest minds – from the artists in our new fellowship to the leaders in our executive programmes – we hope to shape the narratives and elevate the global conversation beyond technology to purpose and impact, while contributing to Abu Dhabi’s ambitious role in the global AI landscape.”

Hosted at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, the launch event offered a preview of artworks from MBZUAI’s collections, highlighting the interplay between scientific discovery and artistic practice.

The Academy also encompasses the MBZUAI Executive Program, which supports senior leaders in leveraging AI for national priorities. The most recent 16-week programme brought together 43 participants from sectors including finance, healthcare, energy and policy, with over 200 leaders trained since the programme’s inception.

The event concluded with the presentation of Leading Capstone Projects, including an AI-powered personalised longevity companion aimed at improving public health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. More regional news is available at https://abudhabi-news.com/.