Dubai — As the UAE accelerates investment in research, advanced technologies and the knowledge economy under its national innovation agenda, universities are becoming key drivers of scientific discovery and industry collaboration. As the country strengthens its position as a global centre for innovation and technology, BITS Pilani Dubai Campus (BPDC) is contributing to this vision through expanding doctoral programmes, industry collaborations, impactful research and innovation.
Over the past year, the campus has achieved notable milestones in research funding, publications, patents and innovation, reinforcing its role in supporting the UAE’s vision for a knowledge-driven economy.
During the 2025–26 academic year, BPDC produced 290 research publications, including 140 journal articles, 93 conference papers, 25 book chapters, three books and 29 preprints. Nearly half of these publications were published in peer-reviewed journals, reflecting BPDC’s strong focus on high-quality research.
The campus also secured a Dh2.5 million industry-sponsored research project from Human BioSciences Inc. (USA). The collaboration reflects growing international recognition of BPDC’s research capabilities and its ability to deliver solutions aligned with industry needs.
Prof. Shrikant Charde, Faculty-In-Charge, Grants Consultancy and Industrial Research (GCIR), BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, said, “The growing number of industry collaborations and funded research projects reflects the confidence that global organisations place in BPDC’s research capabilities and our ability to deliver solutions with real-world relevance.”
The campus has also placed strong emphasis on nurturing the next generation of researchers. During the 2025–26 academic year, 25 new PhD scholars joined BPDC, taking the total doctoral enrolment to 134 students, representing a 22.9 per cent increase over the previous year and a compound annual growth rate of approximately 17.5 per cent.
The growth of the doctoral programme reflects BPDC’s strategic focus on strengthening research capacity, expanding interdisciplinary programmes and enabling scholars to pursue research in areas that address emerging challenges across science, technology and industry.
Research at BPDC spans artificial intelligence, healthcare technologies, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, cybersecurity, photonics, advanced materials, sustainability, Marketing, Economics and management sciences. and management sciences. Faculty members continue to publish in leading international journals, present at global conferences and secure patents, strengthening BPDC’s contribution to scientific advancement.
One recent achievement includes the grant of an international patent for an AI-based machine learning solution that predicts nitrogen levels in wastewater, supporting improved environmental monitoring. Faculty research has also contributed to advances in wearable and implantable bioelectronics, healthcare technologies and photonic systems. In addition, BPDC faculty members continue to serve as reviewers for leading international journals and conferences, reflecting recognition of their academic expertise.
Prof. S. Vincent, Associate Dean, Academic Graduate Studies and Research Division (AGSRD), BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, commented “Our focus is on creating a research environment where faculty and doctoral scholars can pursue interdisciplinary work that addresses real-world challenges while contributing to global scientific knowledge.”
Beyond research, BPDC is fostering innovation through its incubation ecosystem, supporting startups in healthcare, artificial intelligence and deep technology. One such startup, Aayu AI, was selected for the prestigious Google for Startups programme, recognising its potential to transform personalised healthcare through AI.
BPDC’s innovation activities are further strengthened through faculty-led patents, interdisciplinary collaborations and industry partnerships that help translate research into practical solutions with real-world impact.
Professor Souri Banerjee, Director, BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, said, “The UAE has created an enabling environment for research, innovation and entrepreneurship. At BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, we are committed to generating knowledge that benefits industry and society while supporting the UAE’s vision of becoming a global leader in science, technology and innovation.”
Through continued investment in research, doctoral education, international collaborations, and entrepreneurship, BITS Pilani Dubai Campus is strengthening its role in supporting the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in engineering, management, science, and technology. The campus remains committed to developing research talent, encouraging innovation, and contributing to the UAE’s continued growth.
Source: Tahawul Tech