The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is set to expand its global footprint with the launch of its first international research centre in Dubai. The IITM Global Dubai Centre, scheduled to open in early 2025, will focus on cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), data science, robotics, and sustainable energy, aligning with Dubai’s strategic economic goals under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the city’s economy by 2033. The Centre will act as a critical bridge between India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and Dubai’s rapidly growing tech landscape.
This marks IIT-Madras’ first Centre in Dubai, established through an agreement with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) at GITEX Global. The agreement was signed by Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, and Professor Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean of Global Engagement at IIT-M. The Centre will operate under IITM-Global, a newly formed entity designed to lead the institute’s international ventures.
Hadi Badri described the collaboration as a significant step toward positioning Dubai as a global hub for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. “This partnership builds on IIT-M’s global reputation to drive advancements in AI, robotics, and sustainable energy,” Badri noted.
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Professor Rengaswamy called the launch a milestone in IIT-M’s vision to expand globally. “The opening of our first international Centre in Dubai is a pivotal moment in our journey to broaden IIT Madras’ international footprint.”
In addition to fostering research and innovation, the Centre will work with local and global institutions to create opportunities for entrepreneurship and upskilling. It will collaborate with Dubai’s higher education sector, providing valuable resources to develop talent in key technological fields.
During GITEX Global, IIT-M showcased 12 deep-tech startups, underscoring its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship. The new Centre will also work closely with the Dubai Future Foundation and other partners to drive research and development (R&D) initiatives, helping Dubai attract global tech businesses.
This partnership reinforces the strong economic ties between India and Dubai, further building on the contributions of Indian businesses and visitors to Dubai’s economy.
