Officials, researchers, and industry leaders at a UAE–Japan symposium have recommended establishing a permanent bilateral platform for cooperation in artificial intelligence and space sciences, alongside a joint roadmap to translate research into commercially viable applications. The proposal was discussed at the “Blueprints to Breakthroughs: Advancing AI & Space Collaboration Between Japan and the UAE” symposium held in Abu Dhabi.
Organised by TRENDS Research & Advisory in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in the UAE, the event brought together senior policymakers, academics, and business leaders from both countries to deepen collaboration in advanced technologies. Participants described the symposium as a milestone in UAE–Japan relations, signalling a shift toward more structured and long-term cooperation in AI and space innovation.
Dr Mohammed Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS, said the symposium reflects a commitment to strengthening international research collaboration and connecting academic research with policymaking. He highlighted the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Mitsubishi Research Institute as a key step toward sustained joint research initiatives.
Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology, said UAE–Japan relations provide a strong example of constructive international cooperation, particularly as global competition in AI and space accelerates. Japan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Ken Okaniwa, emphasised that AI and space sciences are central pillars of future bilateral engagement, especially in developing responsible solutions to global challenges.
Hirofumi Miyake of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the symposium coincided with high-level bilateral exchanges and pointed to the UAE’s space achievements and Japan’s AI capabilities as a solid foundation for collaboration with institutions such as the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence.
Industry participants highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships. Ren Ito, Co-Founder of Sakana AI, stressed the need for innovation models that promote transparency, efficiency, and shared value, while JAXA President Prof Hiroshi Yamakawa cited existing cooperation, including the Hope Probe mission, as evidence of successful collaboration.
The symposium featured sessions on AI and space policy, bilateral space cooperation, advanced research applications, and AI governance. Discussions covered ethical AI frameworks, sovereign AI, private-sector participation, the space economy, and international safety standards, with speakers agreeing that UAE–Japan collaboration offers a balanced model combining innovation with responsible governance
