Hamad Bin Khalifa Universitys (HBKU) Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) and Google DeepMind co-hosted the 2025 Middle East and North Africa Machine Learning (MenaML) Winter School, gathering 141 local and international university students as well as industry professionals for a six-day program designed to equip them with critical skills in artificial intelligence (AI). The Winter School featured in-depth lectures, hands-on practical sessions and panel discussions that explored critical topics – including large language models, generative AI, deep learning, and more – as well as challenges and career opportunities for young professionals within the Arab world. It also explored the application of AI in diverse fields, including education, genomics, biology, and health, matching Qatars national challenge for AI practitioners to revolutionize these fields. Distinguished experts from QCRI, Google DeepMind, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, InstaDeep, and other regional organizations led these sessions, lending invaluable insights to the attendees and contributing to Qatars growing knowledge hub in AI and computer science. QCRI Executive Director Dr. Ahmed K. Elmagarmid commented: “Like our partners at Google DeepMind, QCRI focuses on stakeholders current and future needs in the field of computing. This natural partnership enabled us to help develop talent in AI based in Qatar and throughout the region, which in turn addresses national research priorities and contributes to the countrys knowledge-based economy.” Participants also received opportunities for professional development, including mentorship sessions, networking gatherings, and a poster session where they could showcase their research to their peers and industry representatives. MenaML was sponsored and supported by a number of world-renowned companies, including Google DeepMind, Google Cloud, Google.org, Malomatia, Dell, PhazeRO, Scale, InstaDeep, Apple, and Qeen.AI, with many hosting booths and engaging directly with the students. MoroccoAI and inzva also served as community partners. The MenaML Winter School is designed to nurture the next generation of AI leaders and create a network of AI practitioners in the MENA region. The event fosters the exchange of knowledge, formation of new research collaborations, and development of local AI talent. (
