Abu Dhabi is poised to host a milestone event in the world of robotics as it welcomes the 36th IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024). From 14-18 October 2024, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) will be the venue for this prestigious conference, which is making its debut in the MENA region. This event highlights the region’s rapidly advancing robotics and intelligent transport systems capabilities and underscores the UAE’s role as a global innovation hub.
IROS 2024 is one of the world’s largest and most influential annual robotics conferences. It provides a platform for researchers, academics, corporate leaders, and industry professionals to exchange knowledge and explore the latest developments in intelligent robots and machines. By bringing this event to Abu Dhabi, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to fostering technological advancement and sustainable development through robotics.
Global Collaboration and Sustainable Development
The conference will revolve around the theme “Robotics for Sustainable Development,” aiming to foster collaboration among the brightest minds in robotics and related fields. It is sponsored by leading organisations, including the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, the Robotics Society of Japan (RSJ), the Society of Instrument and Control Engineers (SICE), the New Technology Foundation, and the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society (IES). This diverse sponsorship underscores the event’s global reach and the wide array of expertise it attracts.
Khalifa University of Science and Technology, the host institution, will play a key role in showcasing its research and innovation in robotics. This event offers Khalifa University a valuable platform to display its cutting-edge research initiatives, contributing to the global discourse on robotics and sustainable development.
Global Participation and Paper Submissions
The IROS 2024 Organizing Committee and its Editorial Board have received an impressive 3,753 paper submissions from 60 countries, highlighting the event’s global significance. China leads with 1,029 papers, followed by the United States with 777, Germany with 302, and Japan with 253. The UAE stands out as the leading contributor from the Arab region with 68 submissions, reflecting its growing influence in the robotics field.
The diverse range of submissions underscores the importance of the conference theme and the vast array of robotics applications, from industrial automation to healthcare and beyond. The event will address pressing global challenges, emphasising the role of robotics in sustainable development.
Exciting Competitions and Challenges
IROS 2024 will feature nine global-level competitions and challenges, focusing on various aspects of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). These challenges will cover areas such as robots’ physical or athletic intelligence, remote robot navigation, robot manipulation, underwater robotics, and perception and sensing. These competitions aim to push the boundaries of robotics capabilities and inspire future innovations.
One of the critical attractions of IROS 2024 will be the IROS Expo, where the latest robotics technologies and products will be showcased. This event in Abu Dhabi will provide attendees with a firsthand look at cutting-edge robotics and intelligent systems advancements. Complementing the expo is an exclusive Career Fair, offering valuable networking and career development opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of robotics.
Keynotes, Panels, and Networking Opportunities
The conference will also feature poster sessions, keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking events. These sessions will allow attendees to delve deeper into specific topics, engage with experts, and explore new ideas and collaborations. Professionals from various sectors will be present, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, agriculture, defence, security, and mining. With 60% of attendees having more than six years of experience in robotics, the event promises to be a rich environment for knowledge sharing and professional growth.
Khalifa University’s Role in Driving Innovation
Khalifa University’s Center for Robotics and Autonomous Systems (KU-CARS) will be at the forefront of IROS 2024, demonstrating its commitment to advancing robotics research and innovation. With around 50 researchers and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, KU-CARS provides a vibrant, multidisciplinary environment for research in robotics and autonomous vehicles. The centre’s participation in IROS 2024 will highlight its contributions to the field and its role in positioning the UAE as a global leader in robotics.
Conclusion
The IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024) in Abu Dhabi is more than just a conference; it is a testament to the MENA region’s growing robotics and intelligent systems capabilities. As the region advances in these fields, events like IROS 2024 will foster innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development. With Khalifa University at the helm, IROS 2024 is set to be a landmark event that will leave a lasting impact on the global robotics community.
