Abu Dhabi Gaming has entered into a strategic partnership with ASPIRE to advance AI-driven game development and support the growth of Abu Dhabi’s gaming and interactive entertainment sector.
The agreement was formalized during the A2RL Summit at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, bringing together industry stakeholders to discuss developments in artificial intelligence, autonomy, and emerging digital technologies.
The partnership was signed by HE Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director of the Strategic Affairs Sector at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), and Stéphane Timpano, Chief Executive Officer of ASPIRE.
The collaboration aims to connect Abu Dhabi’s gaming ecosystem with ASPIRE’s research capabilities to support the development of AI applications in game design and production.
ASPIRE, part of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), focuses on identifying industry challenges and developing practical technology solutions for real-world use.
Through Abu Dhabi Gaming’s network of local and international partners, the initiative will provide startups and established studios with access to tools, technical expertise, and development support to help advance projects from early concept stages to market readiness.
HE Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari Executive Director of Strategic Affairs DCT Abu Dhabi
“Partnering with ASPIRE allows us to unite world-class research capabilities with Abu Dhabi’s fast-growing gaming sector, creating new opportunities for innovation, talent development, and economic diversification. Together, we are building a collaborative foundation, facilitating access to cutting-edge technologies that will enable gaming companies to grow, empower creators, and position Abu Dhabi as one of the world’s leading hubs for interactive entertainment and the digital economy.”
Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, noted that, “Gaming is fast becoming a strategic frontier for artificial intelligence and the digital economy. It brings together real-time decision-making, advanced simulation, and creative talent in ways few industries can.Through this partnership, ASPIRE is connecting advanced research with Abu Dhabi’s growing gaming ecosystem to accelerate AI adoption, strengthen local capability, and create scalable intellectual property.”
The partnership is intended to enhance coordination between research and industry stakeholders and support the continued development of Abu Dhabi’s digital and creative sectors.
