MBZUAI Expands Research Collaboration with École Polytechnique to Enhance AI Ecosystems

Strengthening AI Research: MBZUAI and École Polytechnique Collaboration

The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has announced a pivotal expansion in its research collaboration with the École Polytechnique, a leading engineering school in France. This strategic partnership aims to bolster the AI frameworks in both nations and foster shared innovations in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI).

On May 21, 2025, it was revealed that their collaboration will involve a new agreement focused on co-found research initiatives, specifically targeting the development of large language models, fundamental frameworks for logical reasoning, and exploring AI applications within the domains of biology, health, and AI safety. Professor Eric Xing, the president of MBZUAI, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “The expansion of our relationship with École Polytechnique is crucial for the continuous growth and innovation of our research capabilities.”

A Commitment to Joint Research

This initiative builds on a memorandum of understanding signed earlier in February 2025 during the AI Action Summit in France. The agreement aims to enhance collaboration across education, research, and innovative pursuits in AI. At this summit, Professor Xing delivered a keynote address discussing the interplay between AI, Science, and Society, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in research.

Following the initial understanding, a mutual agreement for a scholar exchange program was established in April. This program facilitates the exchange of students and researchers, aiming to nurture and develop the next generation of AI leaders. Laura Chaubard, the General Director of École Polytechnique, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, pointing out the multiple scientific synergies available. She noted that the collaboration could lead to fruitful innovations in AI for health, security, ecological sustainability, and advancements in large language models.

Recent Achievements and Future Prospects

The research connections between MBZUAI and France are enhanced by the growing presence of MBZUAI’s France Lab in Paris. Researchers at this satellite lab have made significant strides, including the creation of a family of open-source large language models named Atlas-Chat, which focuses on the Moroccan Arabic dialect (Darija). Two models have been released: Atlas-Chat-2B, specifically designed for the effective generation of fluent Darija text, and Atlas-Chat-9B, which presents a richer, context-aware output for more complex tasks.

The France Lab is also anticipated to play a critical role in the forthcoming Institute of Foundation Models (IFM) of MBZUAI. This initiative is aimed at gathering AI talent from Abu Dhabi, Silicon Valley, and Paris to drive forward the next generation of foundational models and make their benefits accessible globally.

About MBZUAI

MBZUAI stands at the forefront of AI education as the first academic institution solely dedicated to advancing the field through research and education. By providing cutting-edge training and interdisciplinary research opportunities, it aims to prepare the next wave of AI pioneers. As part of its expansive vision, MBZUAI is also set to launch its inaugural degree program, a Bachelor of Science in AI, in 2025, offering concentrations in both business and technology. For further details about the university or admission inquiries, prospective students can visit www.mbzuai.ac.ae.

This dynamic partnership between MBZUAI and École Polytechnique symbolizes a significant step in fostering international collaboration in AI research, aiming to create an innovation-rich environment and propel forward advancements that benefit society as a whole.