Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) introduces the Ruwwad AI Scholars (RAIS) Fellowship to develop a team of Emirati AI researchers. The university aims to develop future faculty and research leaders through structured global exposure.
The program is for UAE nationals who have recently completed their PhDs. It aims to bridge the gap between doctoral studies and academic careers in artificial intelligence.
The RAIS Fellowship provides funding for two years of postdoctoral research at international research centers. The fellowship provides financial aid to cover all expenses, including:
Student’s stipend
Research and study costs
Transport and relocation
Medical insurance
Conference and event attendance
In addition, participants will receive guidance from two mentors who will help them with their research. According to MBZUAI, “the fellowship addresses a vital need in the UAE artificial intelligence ecosystem. The country aims to develop local academic talent after establishing its infrastructure and policy framework through its substantial investments.”
Looking ahead, the program invites candidates from engineering, life sciences, and social sciences to apply, with a focus on the use of AI in these areas. Demonstrating how artificial intelligence now impacts various fields, including healthcare and public policy.
Thamar Solorio, Vice Provost of Faculty Excellence and Advancement and Professor of Natural Language Processing at MBZUAI, said, “RAIS reflects our belief that the UAE’s research future must be built from within. By supporting our most promising Emirati scholars at world-class institutions, we are creating pathways for a homegrown AI faculty that is both globally competitive and deeply connected to the country’s long-term ambitions. We look forward to welcoming the first cohort and supporting them as the future research leaders of the UAE.”
The country shifts its focus toward sustainable skill development by investing in people instead of only acquiring technology. The program creates a competitive advantage in the international AI talent competition as nations increasingly prioritize developing homegrown talent.
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