Intel, one of the world's largest technology companies, will open its first artificial intelligence research and development centre at Dubai Internet City (DIC), underscoring the emirate's appeal as a key destination in the GCC for establishing innovation facilities.
The first of its kind centre in the Middle East region will help accelerate its digital transformation by leveraging advanced AI software solutions, DIC said at Gitex Technology Week in Dubai on Tuesday.
“Dubai’s integrated business ecosystem and favourable economic climate have attracted the world’s largest companies whose innovations and insights have strengthened digital transformation not only in our emirate but also the wider region," Ammar Al Malik, executive vice president for commercial leasing at DIC operator Tecom Group, said in the statement.
"Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence are defining the future of all sectors, from manufacturing to education, and establishing a robust tech ecosystem to navigate this emerging and ever-evolving space gives Dubai a competitive edge beneficial to businesses, talent and economic growth.”
Digital transformation in the Middle East continues to accelerate on the back of economies that have become increasingly reliant on technology.
The UAE, which has been at the forefront of promoting the use of these innovations, has become a destination for major global companies looking to establish a research base that will serve the wider region.
Last month, US software company Oracle opened a technology collaboration centre in Abu Dhabi that aims to help public and private sector organisations leverage the use of emerging technology to boost their bottom lines.
Intel said the centre will work closely with Dubai's academic community and relocate a number of its AI experts from its global offices to build a strong talent pool for future products and technologies.
Among the sectors Intel's facility will focus on are health care, transportation and public safety, said Taha Khalifa, Intel's general manager for the Middle East.
The opening of the R&D centre is a "strong opportunity to collaborate across the region’s talented and growing technology ecosystem to help drive further AI innovation to fuel global solutions for many segments", he added.
The specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 48V hybrid
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Power: 325bhp
Torque: 450Nm
Price: Dh289,000
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Tailors and retailers miss out on back-to-school rush
Tailors and retailers across the city said it was an ominous start to what is usually a busy season for sales.
With many parents opting to continue home learning for their children, the usual rush to buy school uniforms was muted this year.
“So far we have taken about 70 to 80 orders for items like shirts and trousers,” said Vikram Attrai, manager at Stallion Bespoke Tailors in Dubai.
“Last year in the same period we had about 200 orders and lots of demand.
“We custom fit uniform pieces and use materials such as cotton, wool and cashmere.
“Depending on size, a white shirt with logo is priced at about Dh100 to Dh150 and shorts, trousers, skirts and dresses cost between Dh150 to Dh250 a piece.”
A spokesman for Threads, a uniform shop based in Times Square Centre Dubai, said customer footfall had slowed down dramatically over the past few months.
“Now parents have the option to keep children doing online learning they don’t need uniforms so it has quietened down.”
More from Rashmee Roshan Lall
How to become a Boglehead
Bogleheads follow simple investing philosophies to build their wealth and live better lives. Just follow these steps.
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