Inside the UAE’s Bold Bet on Physical AI

TII and NVIDIA launch a regional lab to advance robotics and physical AI

23 Sep 2025

Abu Dhabi has launched a joint artificial intelligence and robotics laboratory with Nvidia, creating the Middle East’s first facility under the US group’s AI Technology Center programme to focus on advanced physical automation.

The TII–NVAITC Joint Lab, announced on 22 September, brings together the Technology Innovation Institute’s applied research teams and Nvidia’s computing platforms to support work on humanoid systems, robotic arms, quadruped machines and large-scale learning and control. The partners said the goal is to advance “physical AI” that can be deployed in industrial settings.

Early research will focus on embodied AI and the integration of large models into robotic platforms to improve safety and adaptability. The lab is expected to explore real-time perception and control, areas where Nvidia’s hardware and software stacks are widely used.

The initiative forms part of the UAE’s strategy to expand domestic research capacity and promote investment linked to automation and digital infrastructure. Officials and regional analysts said the centre strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a base for emerging machine-intelligence technologies.

Sector pilots have not yet been confirmed, but the partners expect applications in manufacturing, logistics and infrastructure management. Additional opportunities are anticipated in energy-related operations as autonomous systems become more reliable and predictive tools improve.

The project follows a series of state-backed initiatives to build advanced computing facilities and attract global technology companies to the emirate.