American University of Ras Al Khaimah Launches Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence Centre
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) has officially opened the doors to its Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence Centre (ATAIC), representing a strategic advancement in the university’s journey from an innovation consumer to a creator.
Housed within the School of Engineering and Computing and supported by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority’s (TDRA) ICT Fund, ATAIC is designed to act as a catalyst for regional transformation, pushing forward applied research, industry collaboration, and development of future-ready talent in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.
Standing as more than just a research facility, ATAIC is intended to be a strategic engine fuelling the next era of Ras Al Khaimah’s economic and intellectual growth. The Centre aims to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world industry demands, ensuring that graduates are prepared not only for today’s careers but also for the evolving landscape defined by agility, adaptability, and digital transformation.
Professor Bassam Alameddine, President of AURAK, stated, “The Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence Center is much more than a new research facility; it is a strategic engine designed to power the next chapter of our region’s economic and intellectual story. At AURAK, we recognise that AI is not just a tool for automation; it is a fundamental shift in how humanity will solve its most complex problems. ATAIC is our response to that shift. It is where we bridge academic theory with the high-stakes demands of the global market, ensuring our graduates are not merely job-ready, but future-proof.”
He also expressed gratitude to the TDRA’s ICT Fund for its critical support in establishing the Center, noting that the initiative mirrors a national commitment to enhancing research and education in advanced technologies.
Dr. Khouloud Salameh, Associate Dean of the School of Engineering and Computing and Director of ATAIC, emphasised the Centre’s capabilities and ambitious vision, stating, “ATAIC provides a state-of-the-art innovation ecosystem equipped with high-performance computing clusters, AI workstations, robotics kits, and IoT devices. Beyond infrastructure, it is a collaborative platform where students, faculty, and industry partners co-develop applied solutions in machine learning, smart systems, and digital transformation.”
ATAIC’s core pillars include applied research and development, industry-driven projects, and business incubation. During the launch, student projects highlighted practical AI applications created in partnership with industry leaders.
The inauguration gathered representatives from TDRA, Ras Al Khaimah Statistics, Julphar, Dell, Microsoft, AWS, Huawei, and IBM, emphasizing AURAK’s dedication to a collaborative co-creation model between academia and industry.
The establishment of ATAIC is intricately aligned with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, enhancing AURAK’s position in making Ras Al Khaimah a rising hub for smart systems, data science, and advanced digital innovation.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
