The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), and Mila, the Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute, today announced a significant strategic partnership designed to accelerate collaborative research in critical areas, specifically AI safety and cutting-edge machine learning models. The groundbreaking agreement was unveiled during an official visit by the Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, to the United Arab Emirates.
TII to Launch Dedicated Research Lab in Montreal, Tapping 1,500 AI Experts
Under the terms of the strategic partnership, TII will establish a dedicated corporate research lab at Mila’s headquarters in Montreal. This unprecedented arrangement will enable UAE-based researchers to engage in daily collaboration with Mila’s vast community of over 1,500 AI specialists. The collaboration is firmly anchored in a shared aspiration to translate fundamental scientific breakthroughs into tangible, real-world impact across industries. Mila’s renowned applied-research culture and extensive global talent network are set to significantly accelerate TII’s research roadmap.
Fostering Responsible AI: Falcon Models Expertise Meets Mila’s Applied Research
Crucially, TII’s established expertise in large-scale AI systems, particularly its globally recognized Falcon models, offers new pathways for joint innovation and the international adoption of responsible AI practices. The partnership is already considering future expansions, including robust opportunities in applied AI research and the development of open-source large language models (LLMs).
Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of the Technology Innovation Institute, commented on the synergy: “This agreement connects TII to one of the most dynamic AI research communities in the world. Working this closely with Mila’s scientists will accelerate foundational discoveries and strengthen the global research ecosystem. Together, we will not only prepare for the future, we will actively create it.”
Valérie Pisano, President and CEO of Mila, echoed this sentiment, stating: “Mila and TII share a deep commitment to pushing the frontiers of AI while advancing real-world applications in areas such as large language models, sustainable energy, robotics, quantum technologies, and AI safety. By bringing our teams together, we are creating the conditions for ambitious and world-class collaboration. This partnership builds on growing momentum between Canada and the UAE and will position both our communities for breakthroughs with global impact.”
Building on Bilateral Strength: UAE’s Role in Canada’s Largest AI Event
The timing of this collaboration underscores the rapidly strengthening UAE-Canada ties in the field of artificial intelligence. It follows a period of increasing bilateral engagement, recently highlighted by the UAE’s designation as the Country of Honour at ALL IN 2025, Canada’s largest AI event, which is co-organized by Mila. Furthermore, this initiative aligns with the recently signed Canada-UAE Memorandum of Understanding aimed at supporting new investments in shared priorities, including digital infrastructure and AI adoption.
Aligning with the UAE’s Global Innovation Ambition
Ultimately, the TII-Mila Strategic Partnership reinforces the UAE’s overarching vision to solidify its position as a global hub for advanced research. By fostering an innovation-driven economy, the collaboration further underscores the nation’s long-term commitment to scientific and technological leadership on the international stage.
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