Abu Dhabi: The UAE Cybersecurity Council has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with e and UAE, the telecoms arm of the global technology group e and, to launch the Al Ain Innovation Centre.
According to Emirates News Agency, this strategic partnership, announced at GISEC Global 2025, marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s digital journey, cementing its position as a global hub for innovation, digital transformation, and a knowledge-based economy. The Al Ain Innovation Centre will serve as a collaborative platform for applied research, talent development, and startup enablement across critical technology domains, including AI, cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and intelligent device development. It will empower technology companies, research and academic institutions, and public and private sector organisations to co-create solutions within a connected innovation ecosystem aligned with the UAE’s national goals.
Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, remarked on the milestone represented by the launch, emphasizing its role in advancing the UAE’s global leadership in cutting-edge technologies and cybersecurity. In collaboration with e and UAE, this initiative establishes a platform for cultivating national talent and building a resilient digital economy. By fostering innovation, collaboration, and skills development across government, industry, and academia, the Centre aims to empower entrepreneurs and professionals alike.
Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer, e and UAE, noted that the Al Ain Innovation Centre will be crucial in enabling the UAE’s vision to become a global beacon for innovation and emerging technologies. It will provide a collaborative space where ideas are matched with resources to create impactful solutions that shape society and drive economic growth.
The Centre’s mission is to unite AI engineers, cybersecurity professionals, autonomous systems experts, and device innovators. It will offer integrated support programs in partnership with academia and government, enabling participants to gain advanced technical skills and co-develop commercially viable solutions.
Additionally, the Centre will serve as a platform for national educational initiatives, collaborating with universities and public institutions to build talent pipelines and deliver curricula that address the evolving needs of industry. New and existing startups will benefit from dedicated incubation tracks, receiving support in areas such as idea validation, business model development, and funding access.
The Al Ain Innovation Centre aligns with the UAE’s broader innovation and digital economy strategies, including the UAE Centennial 2071 and the National Innovation Strategy. By integrating infrastructure, education, and emerging technologies, the Centre will help position the UAE as a global leader in applied innovation, embodying a vision to establish a global Centre of Excellence for innovation and entrepreneurship.