Dubai Future Foundation Announces 24 Research Projects from 13 Universities

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has announced that it will provide funding for 24 research projects from 13 universities. These projects focus on advanced and modern fields, helping to strengthen Dubai’s position as one of the most future-ready cities in the world.

The funding is part of the Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Grant Initiative. This program was launched in September 2024 under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of DFF.

These 24 projects were chosen from a total of 374 submissions made by 41 universities and research institutions. The RDI Grant Initiative focuses on important areas like cognitive cities, health sciences, and life sciences. A major part of the research is centered around artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic systems to drive technological progress.

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Khalifa Al Qama, Executive Director of Dubai Future Labs at DFF, shared his thoughts on this initiative. He said, “Dubai is committed to supporting researchers, scientists, and academics. By encouraging innovation and expanding knowledge, we can strengthen both local and global progress. The strong participation in the RDI Grant from institutions across Dubai shows its importance in developing new research and achieving Dubai’s goal of becoming a global leader in science and technology.”

The universities that received funding include the University of Dubai, Canadian University Dubai, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong in Dubai, American University in Dubai, American University in the Emirates, Middlesex University Dubai, Zayed University, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani in Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, Higher Colleges of Technology, Rochester Institute of Technology in Dubai, and University of Birmingham Dubai.

Several researchers shared their excitement about receiving the grant.

Dr. Sreejith Balasubramanian, an Associate Professor at Middlesex University Dubai, said, “I am honored to be part of this project. By using AI and digital twin technology, we want to help small and medium-sized businesses with affordable and advanced solutions that will improve efficiency and sustainability in manufacturing. A big thank you to the Dubai Future Foundation for supporting this initiative.”

Dr. Firuz Kamalov, a Professor at Canadian University Dubai, added, “Dubai’s RDI program is proof of the city’s dedication to developing research in health and AI. Being part of this initiative is both an honor and an exciting chance to contribute to the research community in Dubai.”

Dr. Hamzah Alkhazaleh, an Associate Professor at the University of Dubai, is leading a project called GAP-AD. He explained, “Our project is working on a new way to detect Alzheimer’s early. By combining graphene-based biosensors, deep learning models, and metaverse-enabled diagnostics, we want to make detection easier, cheaper, and more effective. Our goal is to help patients and make Dubai a leader in modern medical technology.”

Prof. Mai ElBarachi, Head of the School of Computer Science at the University of Wollongong in Dubai, is leading the ChatEV project. She said, “This project is all about improving the electric vehicle (EV) experience using AI. We are working with Generative AI, Large Language Models, and agentic AI to make the EV system smarter, more efficient, and better for the environment. This supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy and will have a big impact on smart transportation.”

With these grants, the Dubai Future Foundation is helping to push forward new ideas in science and technology. This initiative not only supports researchers and universities but also positions Dubai as a leader in future advancements across the world.