Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) and Open Innovation AI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a framework for collaboration in executive education, research, student learning opportunities, and academic-industry engagement in the field of artificial intelligence.
The agreement was signed on 19th June 2026 during VivaTech 2026 in Paris by Mr Guillaume Housse, Head of Public Affairs and Sponsorship at SUAD, on behalf of Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, and by Dr Rachid Belmeskine, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Open Innovation AI, representing Open Innovation AI alongside Dr Abed Benaichouche, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Open Innovation AI.
Through the agreement, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and Open Innovation AI intend to collaborate on a range of initiatives, including the joint design and delivery of co-branded workshops, the development of executive education programmes, and the exploration of collaborative research projects and academic initiatives. The agreement also outlines opportunities to facilitate internships for students and provide access to selected Open Innovation AI technology platforms, including OI Chat, OICM, and GPU accelerators, for educational purposes.
The partnership reflects a shared interest in strengthening connections between academic research and professional practice while creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, said: “As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the way we learn, work, and innovate, it is more important than ever to promote its responsible and effective use. This agreement with Open Innovation AI reflects our commitment to strengthening collaboration between academia and industry through knowledge exchange, research, and the development of executive education programmes that respond to the evolving needs of the industry. Together, we aim to equip students with the practical skills and ethical understanding needed to harness AI’s potential, drive innovation, and contribute to the advancement of society.”
Dr Abed Benaichouche, CEO and Co-founder, Open Innovation AI, said: “Artificial Intelligence is becoming a strategic capability for every nation. Success will not be defined by access to technology alone, but by the ability to develop the talent that can build, govern, and apply it responsibly. Our collaboration with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi brings together academic excellence and sovereign AI innovation to help prepare the next generation of leaders, researchers, and builders who will shape the future of AI in the UAE and beyond.”
The collaboration also aligns with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s Year of AI, reinforcing the University’s continued focus on interdisciplinary research, emerging technologies, and future-ready talent development. Through the Sorbonne Centre for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) and specialised academic programmes such as the Bachelor’s in Mathematics, Specialisation in Data Science for Artificial Intelligence, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its contribution to AI education, research, and innovation in the UAE.
As part of its participation in VivaTech 2026, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi also hosted panel discussion at the Sorbonne Université stand, titled “Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and SCAI – Between International Research Partnerships and Integration into the UAE Ecosystem.”
Moderated by Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, the session featured Catherine Javaux, R&D Subsurface Director at TotalEnergies, and Dr. Frédéric Barbaresco, KTD PCC AI/Algorithms for Sensors & Quantum Algorithms/Computing Segment Leader at Thales. The discussion explored the development of the Sorbonne Centre for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) in Abu Dhabi and highlighted the role of strategic partnerships in advancing research and innovation.
Established in 2006 through a partnership between Sorbonne University in Paris and the Government of Abu Dhabi, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi serves as a bridge between cultures and knowledge systems, with research at the heart of its mission. Through the Sorbonne Centre for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) and a growing network of international and local partnerships, the University continues to advance responsible research with tangible impact across academia, industry, and society.
