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Abu Dhabi University hosted its “Innovation Day 5.0” event on November 1, 2025, at its Al Ain campus, bringing together over 300 students and leading technology companies to explore the latest developments in artificial intelligence and software engineering. The event, organized in collaboration with IBM, Microsoft, Huawei, Zaka, Google Developer Groups, and SIFOR, featured keynote speeches, workshops, and the finals of the IBM watsonx Orchestrate student competition, highlighting the role of young talent in achieving the UAE’s Vision 2031.
The artificial intelligence innovation event provided students with hands-on experience testing modern AI technologies, developing enterprise applications, and learning advanced programming methods. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic goals to diversify its economy beyond oil revenues and establish a knowledge-based economic framework.
Artificial Intelligence Skills Development Through Industry Partnerships
The event featured eight main sessions discussing topics including “AI in Enterprise versus Hobbies” and “Building Intelligent Applications,” according to university officials. Students presented innovative solutions using artificial intelligence across various sectors during the IBM watsonx Orchestrate competition finals, connecting academic education with practical industry challenges.
Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, stated that studies indicate artificial intelligence could add approximately $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. The Middle East and North Africa region is expected to contribute significantly to this growth, he noted, emphasizing the university’s commitment to developing a generation of creative young professionals ready to face future challenges.
Ken Hobson, Chief Technology Officer for Data, AI, and Security at IBM, explained that the partnership with Abu Dhabi University provides students with practical experience in artificial intelligence and opportunities to build intelligent solutions that help shape the future of business. The collaboration represents more than just a competition, offering real-world exposure to enterprise AI applications.
Supporting UAE Digital Economy Goals
The initiative coincided with UAE Codes Day, reinforcing Abu Dhabi University’s dedication to preparing students with essential skills for digital leadership. The event supported the university’s strategic objectives in enhancing student readiness for the digital economy and encouraging collaboration between academic institutions and other sectors.
Additionally, Professor Adel Khelifi from the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology at Abu Dhabi University highlighted the transformative power of artificial intelligence and software engineering in shaping technology’s future. The projects showcased demonstrated the creativity and problem-solving mindset that will drive the next phase of digital innovation in the UAE, he noted.
Knowledge Economy and Research Excellence
Through initiatives like Innovation Day in artificial intelligence and software engineering, Abu Dhabi University continues supporting innovation, scientific research, and cross-sector collaboration. This approach strengthens the institution’s role in preparing graduates for leadership positions and fostering positive impact within the UAE and internationally.
Meanwhile, the university has achieved recognition as one of the top three universities in the UAE and among the world’s top 250 institutions according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. This ranking reflects the institution’s continued academic excellence and enhanced global competitiveness in higher education.
The university has not announced specific details regarding the next Innovation Day event or future collaborations with technology partners. However, the success of the 2025 edition indicates that similar initiatives will likely continue as part of the institution’s ongoing commitment to artificial intelligence education and workforce development in the region.
