King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has entered into a significant partnership with Deloitte Middle East, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance the application and development of artificial intelligence across Saudi Arabia. The collaboration will unite KAUST’s advanced research ecosystem with Deloitte’s AI Institute to translate scientific breakthroughs into tangible business solutions, directly supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives.
Bridging Research and Commercial Application
The core objective of this partnership is to create a robust platform where cutting-edge AI research moves beyond academia and into practical industry use. The initiative aims to commercialize new AI models and intellectual property developed through joint projects. By combining KAUST’s scientific expertise with Deloitte’s global business acumen, the collaboration will focus on developing industry-specific solutions in key sectors such as health, finance, energy, and logistics, aiming to solve complex challenges and establish best practices for AI adoption in the region.
Fostering AI Talent and Governance
A key pillar of the agreement is the development of the next generation of AI talent within the Kingdom. The partnership will roll out a series of lectures, workshops, internships, and exchange opportunities for students and professionals. Beyond talent development, the collaboration will also address the critical aspects of AI policy and governance. Both institutions will closely examine the ethical implications and societal impact of AI technologies, ensuring that innovation is pursued responsibly and contributes positively to the community.
Aligning With Vision 2030
This strategic alliance is designed to align directly with the national priorities of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes technology, sustainability, and human capital development as central to economic transformation. By localizing Deloitte’s successful AI Institute model for Saudi Arabia, the partnership aims to leverage global expertise to meet the unique ambitions of the Kingdom. Professor Gianluca Setti, Dean at KAUST, highlighted that the agreement reflects the university’s commitment to building partnerships that “support Saudi Arabia’s leadership in AI and contribute to both national and global priorities.”
About King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology is a graduate research university located on the shores of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. As a catalyst for innovation, economic development, and social prosperity, KAUST is dedicated to advancing science and technology through distinctive and collaborative research integrated with graduate education. The university is a hub for scientific excellence and a key contributor to the Kingdom’s knowledge-based economy.
Source: Zawya
