Abu dhabi: Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) and Saal.ai have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing research, innovation, and knowledge transfer in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), sovereign AI, and Agentic AI.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was formalized by Guillaume Housse, representing Prof Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, and Vikraman Poduval, CEO of Saal.ai. Through this MoU, SUAD will leverage its academic and research proficiency alongside Saal.ai's expertise in enterprise AI platforms, sovereign AI infrastructure, and Agentic AI technologies. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of localized AI capabilities in the region.
The initiative is in line with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi's Year of AI, emphasizing the institution's dedication to interdisciplinary research, emerging technologies, and the preparation of future-ready talent. The Sorbonne Centre for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) and specialized academic programs, such as the Bachelor's in Mathematics with a Specialization in Data Science for Artificial Intelligence, continue to play a pivotal role in bolstering AI education, research, and innovation within the UAE.
Dr. Xavier Fresquet, Head of SCAI at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, highlighted the growing importance of partnerships between academia and industry as AI technologies expand across various sectors. He expressed a commitment to ensuring students not only comprehend these technologies but also actively engage with AI-driven environments reshaping professional practices globally.
Vikraman Poduval of Saal.ai emphasized that the collaboration marks a significant step in advancing sovereign AI capabilities in the UAE, focusing on self-reliance and autonomy. By merging academic excellence with AI innovation, the partnership aims to accelerate the development of Agentic AI and place Emirati talent at the forefront of this technological transformation.
