ABU DHABI: The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has announced the launch of the UAE’s first undergraduate programme in Artificial Intelligence, marking a significant milestone in AI education.
The new Bachelor of Science in AI is designed to integrate technical expertise with leadership, entrepreneurship, and real-world industry experience, preparing students to drive AI advancements on a global scale.
MBZUAI’s undergraduate programme aims to create multi-faceted AI professionals by blending core AI disciplines – such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics – with business, finance, industrial design, and communication studies. This interdisciplinary approach ensures graduates develop an entrepreneurial mindset alongside technical prowess.
Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of MBZUAI’s Board of Trustees, highlighted the strategic significance of this initiative: “This undergraduate programme will play a transformative role in ensuring the UAE remains at the forefront of AI research, application, and commercialisation. By equipping the next generation with deep technical knowledge and a broad understanding of AI’s impact, we are strengthening our national capacity to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress.”
AI-driven learning model
The programme follows a co-pilot education model, incorporating AI-driven tools and methodologies throughout the student learning experience. This innovative approach enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ensuring students are equipped for the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
In addition to technical knowledge, students will develop crucial leadership, financial, and legal skills. The curriculum will cover cutting-edge topics such as deep learning, generative AI, AI for science, AI for healthcare, and AI for sustainable living. Industry experience is a key component, with students engaging in cooperative placements, internships, and mentorships with top AI research institutes and leading companies.
MBZUAI President and University Professor Eric Xing emphasised the university’s forward-thinking vision: “Our undergraduate programme is unlike any other. It merges AI education with entrepreneurship and industry applications. We are shaping not just engineers but AI entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators who will drive AI transformation across industries.”
Global AI collaboration
A major advantage of the programme is direct access to MBZUAI’s world-leading AI research and global industry partnerships. Students will gain hands-on experience working with JAIS, the world’s most advanced Arabic large language model, and K2, a top-performing reproducible LLM.
The Bachelor of Science in AI will be available in two specialised streams:
- AI – Business: Focuses on AI’s integration with business, finance, and entrepreneurship.
- AI – Engineering: Emphasises AI model development, deployment, and real-world applications.
Both streams provide a state-of-the-art learning environment, including high-performance AI computing resources, smart classrooms, and dedicated incubation spaces for startups and research projects.
A bold step for AI education
The programme is open to both local and international students, with MBZUAI aiming to attract the brightest minds in AI. The initiative cements MBZUAI’s position as a global leader in AI education and research, setting new benchmarks for undergraduate AI training.
Professor Xing concluded: “We are not just educating students; we are building the future workforce and AI community. With this undergraduate programme, MBZUAI is defining the future of AI education and ensuring our graduates are ready to transform industries and drive progress worldwide.”