IIT Madras Set to Launch International Research Centre in Dubai by 2025

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has announced plans to launch its inaugural international flagship centre in Dubai, focusing on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Set to open in early 2025, this initiative aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange between India and the UAE.

Announcement

• IIT Madras will establish its first international flagship centre in Dubai for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, set to launch in early 2025.

Collaboration 

• The initiative is a result of an agreement between IIT Madras and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Centre Focus 

The IITM Global Dubai Centre will specialize in advanced fields such as,

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Data Science
• Robotics
• Sustainable Energy

Objectives

• To create a bridge connecting Dubai with India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• To drive research, innovation, intellectual property (IP) licensing, and technology transfer in key priority areas for Dubai.

Signatories

• The agreement was signed by Hadi Badri, CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), and Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean of Global Engagement at IIT Madras, during GITEX Global 2024.

Significance

• The centre will support the international growth of deep-tech startups.
• It will enhance research and development (R&D) and strengthen economic ties between Dubai and India.

Future Prospects

• The initiative is expected to attract top global talent and stimulate the growth of deep-tech startups in Dubai.
• It aligns with Dubai’s goals to enhance its research and innovation capabilities.

Quotes

• Prof. Rengaswamy emphasized the mission to expand IIT Madras’s global presence and contribute to Dubai’s dynamic ecosystem.
• Badri stated that the partnership marks a significant milestone in positioning Dubai as a global leader in research and innovation.