Abu Dhabi to establish semicon R&D centers

The Abu Dhabi government plans to tap semiconductor companies to establish central industrial research facilities as part of its plan to turn the emirate into a technology research and development center. Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC) and the Abu Dhabi Education Council will take lead roles in the effort in cooperation with the emirates' leading higher education institutions.

After conducting an extensive benchmarking of R&D communities and knowledge centers such as Singapore, Taiwan, Ireland, and South Korea, Abu Dhabi created a strategic framework for its technology future.

A Research and Development Advisory Board will be established to ensure that the framework is adhered to by coordinate the activities and infrastructure building across the emirate. It will also identify high-impact areas of technology development to pursue.

"Strong research and development is the life blood of the advanced technology industry," ATIC chief executive officer Ibrahim Ajami said. "At ATIC we are committed to delivering on our mandate to make strategic investments in areas that will impact the diversification of Abu Dhabi's economy. This research and development strategy will contribute to the establishment of a vibrant knowledge and innovation economy."