MBZUAI Unveils Fully Funded RAIS Fellowship for Emirati AI Scholars

The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has announced the launch of the Ruwwad AI Scholars (RAIS) Fellowship, an initiative aimed at fostering the future of Emirati researchers in the field of artificial intelligence.

This fully funded, two-year postdoctoral program is exclusively for UAE Nationals who have recently earned their Ph.D. It offers a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research at various prestigious international institutions, enriching scholars’ global perspectives while reinforcing the UAE's ongoing research framework.

Open to candidates from a wide range of academic disciplines such as machine learning, data science, engineering, biology, economics, and physics, the fellowship emphasizes interdisciplinary research that incorporates AI and quantitative methodologies.

Thamar Solorio, Vice Provost of Faculty Excellence and Advancement at MBZUAI, highlighted that this initiative is part of a larger vision for the country's development, aimed at equipping Emirati scholars to excel on an international stage while having a significant impact on the UAE's research goals.

With alignment to the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, the fellowship aspires to position the UAE as a global frontrunner in AI by fostering innovation, talent cultivation, and research excellence. As the first dedicated AI university worldwide, MBZUAI plays a pivotal role in achieving this objective.

Candidates with strong independent research potential and alignment with national priorities will be prioritized in the selection process. After completing the fellowship, participants are expected to transition into tenure-track academic positions at MBZUAI and other reputable institutions.

Applications for the RAIS Fellowship are currently open, reviewed on a rolling basis. Priority will be given to applications submitted by mid-April, with the final selection expected to begin in Fall 2026.