IIT Madras Global Research Foundation will open its first Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation Centre in Dubai CommerCity. The centre aims to accelerate real-life AI innovations. It will also strengthen technological collaboration between India and the UAE. Operations begin with six applied AI startups.
Centre Details
These initial projects have a combined estimated value of USD 118 million. They are projected to generate nearly USD 281 million in revenue over the next five years. MCA Gulf, a strategic partner for IITM Global in Dubai, is assisting in establishing the centre.
The centre will focus on several key areas. These include advancing local product development and speeding up solution deployment. It will also foster intellectual property creation. Strengthening collaboration with government, industry, and innovation partners is another objective.
Inauguration and Vision
The agreement was signed at WORLDEF Dubai 2026. This is a major regional conference on digital commerce. The event was inaugurated by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee.
Amna Lootah, Director-General of Dubai CommerCity and Dubai Airport Freezone, stated the collaboration reinforces Dubai’s role as a hub for digital trade and advanced technologies. She added that the centre aligns with the emirate’s vision for innovation-driven growth and high-value economic activity.
Global Expansion
Professor Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean (Global Engagement) at IIT Madras, described the venture as a significant step for global research expansion. He noted the centre’s goal is to bridge academic research with industry deployment. It will also promote human-centric and responsible AI development.