Katonic AI has been selected by AqlanX as the core technology platform for the Gulf region’s first Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence, delivering fully sovereign AI infrastructure that allows the UAE to develop, train and deploy AI models while ensuring complete data residency and operational independence.
The Centre of Excellence was established through a consortium that includes Lakeba Group, University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), AqlanX and DoxAI. It supports the ambitions of the UAE’s National AI Strategy 2031 and was catalysed by the NextGen FDI initiative, led by His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi. The centre was inaugurated on 19 November 2025.
The ceremony was attended by senior dignitaries, including John M. Green, Chairman of UOW Global Enterprises; Abdulla Belhoul, CEO of TECOM Group; Ahmed Hamzawy, Chief Partnership Officer at Microsoft UAE; Paul Priest from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Moin Anwar, NSW Government Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Middle East.
Addressing the Global Push for AI Sovereignty
The partnership reflects a fast-growing global shift as countries seek to reduce dependence on foreign cloud platforms and retain control over AI infrastructure and sensitive data. Katonic AI’s platform enables full on-premises AI development with no data transfer outside UAE borders, supporting end-to-end model development, training and deployment within sovereign environments.
AqlanX CEO Demetrio Russo said the UAE can now develop Arabic language models and deploy advanced intelligent systems “whilst maintaining absolute control over data processing and intellectual property.” Katonic AI CEO Prem Naraindas added that the platform ensures organisations can build world-class AI systems entirely on local infrastructure.
Proven Sovereign AI Capabilities
The platform supports Arabic language optimisation, multi-infrastructure deployment, multi-tenancy, enterprise-grade security and compliance with UAE regulatory frameworks. Katonic AI brings extensive experience, having powered the Philippines’ first sovereign AI stack through its work with ePLDT, served as the technology foundation for Saudi Arabia’s MODON AI Center of Excellence, supported research at KAUST and partnered with e& enterprise for AI-powered regional solutions.
Implementation Framework
The partnership will deliver capabilities across four strategic pillars:
- AI talent development for UOWD students and faculty
- Sovereign research operations enabling Arabic LLMs and sector-specific AI
- Commercial innovation pathways spanning healthcare, energy and Islamic finance
- Policy development to strengthen responsible AI governance
AqlanX will lead regional strategy and commercialisation, while Katonic AI provides the technology backbone. The Centre will serve as AqlanX’s official R&D headquarters in alignment with UAE tech priorities.
A Global Collaboration Model With Local Ownership
The Centre operates under UOWD’s academic leadership, ensuring UAE ownership of infrastructure and IP while fostering UAE–Australia technology cooperation. Both CEOs said the partnership creates infrastructure that allows the UAE to lead globally in AI while maintaining complete sovereignty over its technological capabilities.
