MBZUAI Launches AI Fellowship for Emirati Researchers

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence has launched the Ruwwad AI Scholars (RAIS) Fellowship, a fully funded two-year postdoctoral programme for UAE Nationals who have recently completed their PhDs.

The initiative supports advanced research placements at international institutions, with the aim of developing long-term capabilities in artificial intelligence and related fields while building a pipeline of future academic talent.

The fellowship is open to candidates across disciplines, including machine learning, data science, engineering, biology, economics and physics, provided their work engages with artificial intelligence or computational methods.

“RAIS reflects our belief that the UAE’s research future must be built from within,” Thamar Solorio, Vice Provost of Faculty Excellence and Advancement, says. “By supporting our most promising Emirati scholars at world-class institutions, we are creating pathways for a homegrown AI faculty that is both globally competitive and deeply connected to the country’s long-term ambitions.”

The programme aligns with the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and is designed to prepare participants for tenure-track academic roles at MBZUAI and other institutions.

Applications are open on a rolling basis, with priority given to submissions received by mid-April. Selected candidates are expected to begin the fellowship in Fall 2026.