Cloud Box Technologies (CBT), a Middle East systems integrator and digital transformation company, has signed strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with multiple universities across the UAE to establish AI Lab, an AI-focused Centre of Excellence (CoE). The initiative aims to strengthen AI adoption, accelerate innovation, and prepare students with industry-ready skills through practical learning and research.
The AI Lab will serve as a collaborative platform where academia and industry work together on real-world AI challenges. It will focus on four key areas: Generative AI, Data Science and Business Analytics, Intelligent Automation, and AI-powered business applications. As a result, students, faculty members, and technology experts will gain opportunities to develop solutions with direct business relevance.
Industry-led AI learning for future-ready professionals
According to Ranjith Kaippada, Managing Director of Cloud Box Technologies, the initiative reflects the company’s long-term commitment to developing AI talent that meets evolving industry demands.
“The establishment of our Centre of Excellence demonstrates our commitment to building a future-ready talent ecosystem. AI Lab has been designed as a platform where innovation meets practical application. Students will work on real-world AI challenges while developing industry-relevant skills. As AI adoption continues to grow across the region, these initiatives will help learners understand and unlock AI’s full potential. Ultimately, they will play an important role in shaping the next generation of AI professionals and strengthening the UAE’s position as a global AI leader,” he said.
Supporting the UAE’s AI and digital transformation agenda
The partnerships come at a time when AI adoption continues to expand across the UAE, increasing demand for professionals with practical AI expertise. Cloud Box Technologies believes the AI Lab will help bridge this skills gap by combining structured academic programmes with hands-on industry experience.
Moreover, the initiative supports the UAE’s broader digital transformation ambitions by encouraging applied research, solution co-creation, and technology showcases. Students will also gain exposure to enterprise AI deployments, making them better prepared for future careers.
The company expects the Centre of Excellence to create a sustainable talent pipeline while helping organisations accelerate AI adoption through innovation-led collaboration.
Building an innovation ecosystem
Cloud Box Technologies has established the initiative on its experience in delivering innovation-driven Centres of Excellence and applied research programmes. Besides supporting universities, the partnerships will enable enterprises to collaborate with academic institutions on AI projects that address business challenges.
As AI continues to reshape industries, the company expects the AI Lab to strengthen collaboration between education and industry while helping organisations build a workforce equipped for emerging technologies.
About Cloud Box Technologies
Cloud Box Technologies (CBT) is a Dubai-headquartered systems integrator, IT services specialist, and digital transformation partner serving organisations across the Middle East. The company provides IT infrastructure consulting, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, systems integration, managed services, and professional services. It also integrates AI capabilities across its portfolio through its Algo-as-a-Service (AaaS) model and dedicated Centres of Excellence. CBT operates Network Operations Centres (NOCs) in Dubai and India and has been certified as a Great Place to Work in the Middle East.
