Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence has announced the launch of The Academy, a new strategic initiative designed to expand global dialogue on artificial intelligence and its role in society. Positioned as a platform for interdisciplinary exchange, The Academy brings together leaders from AI research, creative practice and the humanities.

The launch took place 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, alongside Professor Eric Xing, President and University Professor at MBZUAI. The announcement formed part of the university’s five-year milestone celebrations and coincided with the graduation of the sixth cohort of the MBZUAI Executive Program, as well as the unveiling of the AI x Arts Fellowship.

The inaugural fellowship cohort consists of eight internationally recognised figures, including Refik Anadol, filmmaker James Gerde, multidisciplinary artist Emi Kusano and water and light artist Lachlan Turczan. They are joined by Amrita Sethi, Daniel Ambrosi, Ahmad AlAttar and curator Giuseppe Moscatello. Two residencies planned for 2026 in Abu Dhabi will connect the fellows with AI scientists and cultural institutions across the emirate.

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 included a preview of artworks from the university’s collections that explore how scientific knowledge has been interpreted through culture.

The Academy also encompasses the MBZUAI Executive Program, which equips senior leaders to apply AI to national priorities. More than 200 leaders have completed the programme to date.

The event concluded with a presentation of Leading Capstone Projects, including an AI-powered personalised longevity companion designed to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. More regional news is available at https://abudhabi-news.com/.