Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi has officially declared 2026 as its Year of AI, signalling a major institutional commitment to embedding artificial intelligence across education, research and public engagement. Guided by the slogan “Choose AI, Choose Critical Thinking”, the initiative positions AI as a tool to enhance learning while reinforcing human reasoning, creativity and ethical awareness.
The announcement was made following the successful conclusion of the Marine AI and Robotics for Innovation and Sustainability Symposium, known as MARIS-AI, held on 21 and 22 January at the Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi campus. The event demonstrated how artificial intelligence and robotics are already transforming marine science, sustainability and environmental protection.
A Techno-Humanist Vision for AI Education
Commenting on the milestone, Prof. Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, said:
“By making AI the core theme of our Year of AI, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi embodies a uniquely techno-humanist and holistic vision: combining the excellence of the French academic tradition with the UAE’s forward-looking ambition to accelerate both research and education. Our purpose is clear—to educate citizens who are not only fluent in AI, but capable of rigorous reasoning, ethical discernment and creativity; to keep human oversight and critical thinking at the center of every use; and to turn AI from a black box into a tool that strengthens responsible, informed decision-making for the common good. We launched the Year of AI through MARIS-AI to show AI at its most meaningful, advancing science, sustainability and proving that this intelligent system is not abstract, but a powerful tool for solving humanity’s most urgent challenges.”
MARIS-AI as a Launch Platform for Innovation
MARIS-AI is an officially endorsed United Nations Ocean Decade Activity and brought together academics, industry experts, policymakers and students from around the world. The symposium featured leading speakers including Dr Giulia De Masi, Associate Professor at SUAD; Dr Francesco Maurelli, Associate Professor of Marine Systems at Constructor University, Germany; and Dr Beatriz Garcia, Associate Professor and Sustainability Spokesperson at SUAD, under the leadership of Professor Gérard Biau, Director at the Sorbonne Center for Artificial Intelligence.
International experts from institutions such as Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Khalifa University, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, NYU Abu Dhabi and the Italian National Research Council also shared advanced research on ocean sensing, underwater navigation, robotic swarms and soft robotics.
The symposium highlighted how AI-driven technologies such as autonomous underwater vehicles, machine learning models and edge AI are transforming ocean monitoring, enabling more accurate data collection, early warning systems and improved protection of marine biodiversity. Discussions on sustainability and data governance reinforced the importance of responsible frameworks alongside technological advancement.
Aligning with the UAE’s National AI Vision
The Year of AI reflects Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s academic mission and aligns closely with the UAE’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, reinforcing the country’s commitment to ethical, secure and human-centred innovation.
Throughout 2026, the University will deliver a comprehensive programme of academic and public activities, including the AI SUAD Summit 2026 in April, interdisciplinary research forums, public lectures and international conferences. Activities led by the Sorbonne Center for Artificial Intelligence will further connect researchers and students through workshops, open sessions and thematic initiatives across departments.
AI Integration Across Campus Life
Across campus, the Year of AI will highlight ongoing initiatives including AI-powered library tools, the NORA chatbot developed by the French as a Foreign Language Department, AI-supported teaching methods, staff training programmes and school outreach activities. All initiatives will be centralised to present a cohesive AI-driven university vision and made accessible to students, partners and the wider public. At the core of the initiative is a commitment to equipping students with the skills to use AI responsibly, recognising that while AI can generate answers, human reasoning and critical thinking remain essential. This vision is reflected in the Year of AI visual identity, symbolised by a human hand and a robotic hand working together, underscoring the belief that technology and human intelligence must operate in partnership.
By declaring 2026 as the Year of AI, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi strengthens its role as a regional catalyst for responsible innovation, uniting artificial intelligence, sustainability and critical thinking to prepare future-ready generations for a rapidly evolving world.
For more information about Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi,
Further Reading:
- Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Honours and Celebrates Women’s Achievements Through Art and Research
- Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Leads Ocean Dialogue at IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025
- Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Chancellor and Al Aidarous Lawyer Recognised with French National Order of Merit for Strengthening France-UAE Relations