Abu Dhabi is set to become a global hub for cutting-edge technology thanks to a new partnership between the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and the World Economic Forum (WEF). Announced at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, the ‘Abu Dhabi Centre for Frontier Technologies’ will join WEF’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) Global Network, focusing on breakthroughs in Quantum Computing, Robotics, Space Tech, and AI. The Centre aims to bridge the gap between research and real-world application, leveraging the UAE’s unique position as a testing ground for innovation. “As frontier technologies accelerate, there is a growing imperative and opportunity to guide their responsible and impactful adoption,” said Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, highlighting the Centre’s commitment to responsible technological advancement and solidifying Abu Dhabi’s role in global science and innovation.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), will spearhead advancements in Quantum Computing, Robotics, Propulsion & Space systems, and associated AI applications. This collaboration expands the C4IR network to include the UAE alongside nations like the US, Germany, and Japan. The Centre’s establishment leverages the UAE’s unique strengths: an agile regulatory environment and a robust connection between research, policy, and implementation.
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum, stated, “By bringing world-class research capabilities into the Network, this Centre will support industries in translating innovation into practical, responsible solutions.” The Centre will function as both an innovation engine and a platform for proof-of-concept pilots, further solidifying the UAE’s influence in science and innovation. Abu Dhabi now joins a C4IR network alongside the US, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and India, strengthening the UAE’s position as a global hub.
As frontier technologies accelerate, there is a growing imperative and opportunity to guide their responsible and impactful adoption.
Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII
