Empowering Emirati Scholars: The RAIS Fellowship at MBZUAI

The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has officially launched the Ruwwad AI Scholars (RAIS) Fellowship, a pivotal national program aimed at cultivating future Emirati leaders in the artificial intelligence sector.

This fully funded, two-year postdoctoral fellowship is tailored for UAE Nationals who have recently completed their doctoral studies. It provides an invaluable chance for researchers to engage in cutting-edge research at prestigious international institutions, enhancing their global engagement while reinforcing the UAE's research landscape.

The RAIS Fellowship welcomes applicants from various academic domains including machine learning, data science, engineering, biology, economics, and physics. Emphasis is placed on research that combines AI with computational tools or quantitative methods across multiple fields.

Thamar Solorio, Vice Provost of Faculty Excellence and Advancement at MBZUAI, indicated that this initiative aligns with a broader vision for the country’s development. She emphasized that the program is crucial for enabling Emirati scholars to thrive on a global scale while making significant contributions to the UAE’s research goals.

Aligning with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, which seeks to establish the UAE as a frontrunner in AI, the fellowship underscores the university’s dedication to innovation, talent cultivation, and academic excellence. As the inaugural dedicated AI institution worldwide, MBZUAI plays an essential role in realizing this aspirational vision.

Candidates showcasing robust research potential, autonomy, and alignment with national priorities will be prioritized. Graduates of the fellowship are anticipated to move into tenure-track academic positions at MBZUAI and other prominent institutions.

Currently, applications for the RAIS Fellowship are open and will be processed continuously. Early submissions received by mid-April will receive priority attention, with successful candidates set to commence the fellowship in Fall 2026.