Meet AUBHi
TDT | Manama
Bahrain’s innovation scene just took a big step into the future, and it walks on two legs. At the American University of Bahrain (AUBH), students have unveiled a series of locally built AI-powered robots called AUBHi (Augmented University Bot for Human Interaction), showing that world-class robotics can be made right here in the Kingdom.
The Daily Tribune learned that these robots weren’t imported or assembled from kits, they were engineered from scratch by Bahraini-based talent from mechanical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, AI, and data science programs.
Robots Born in Bahrain
During a special demonstration at the AUBH Theatre following the “National Innovation Strategy 2025–2035” conference, lecturer Herbert Azuela showcased what the students had created: robots that can walk, climb stairs, avoid obstacles, recognise human faces, and even wave back when someone looks at them.
AUBHi can keep its balance, stand back up if pushed, and move confidently through busy spaces, a level of mobility that typically comes from major global robotics labs, now achieved in Bahrain.
AUBHi Can Talk, Listen, and Think
The robot doesn’t just move, it communicates. AUBHi responds to voice commands, speaks English and Chinese, and uses advanced conversational AI systems like ChatGPT and DeepSeek to reply naturally. It also recognizes colours, making it useful for classrooms, customer service, and smart public spaces.
A University That Builds the Future
The project reflects Bahrain’s growing ambition to become a regional innovation hub. AUBH’s robotics initiative shows how local universities are producing skilled future engineers who can build complex technology with real-world applications.
Azuela praised his students’ teamwork and creativity, calling the project a powerful example of how engineering and AI can come together to shape new solutions for Bahrain.
National Support
Earlier in the event, the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Mr. Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, highlighted Bahrain’s National Innovation Strategy, a collaborative national effort inspired by the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
After the presentation, the Minister toured AUBH’s labs to see the students’ inventions up close, including the star attraction: Bahrain’s own robot, AUBHi.
The Daily Tribune learned that these robots weren’t imported or assembled from kits, they were engineered from scratch by Bahraini-based talent from mechanical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, AI, and data science programs.
Robots Born in Bahrain
During a special demonstration at the AUBH Theatre following the “National Innovation Strategy 2025–2035” conference, lecturer Herbert Azuela showcased what the students had created: robots that can walk, climb stairs, avoid obstacles, recognise human faces, and even wave back when someone looks at them.
AUBHi can keep its balance, stand back up if pushed, and move confidently through busy spaces, a level of mobility that typically comes from major global robotics labs, now achieved in Bahrain.
AUBHi Can Talk, Listen, and Think
The robot doesn’t just move, it communicates. AUBHi responds to voice commands, speaks English and Chinese, and uses advanced conversational AI systems like ChatGPT and DeepSeek to reply naturally. It also recognizes colours, making it useful for classrooms, customer service, and smart public spaces.
A University That Builds the Future
The project reflects Bahrain’s growing ambition to become a regional innovation hub. AUBH’s robotics initiative shows how local universities are producing skilled future engineers who can build complex technology with real-world applications.
Azuela praised his students’ teamwork and creativity, calling the project a powerful example of how engineering and AI can come together to shape new solutions for Bahrain.
National Support
Earlier in the event, the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Mr. Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, highlighted Bahrain’s National Innovation Strategy, a collaborative national effort inspired by the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
After the presentation, the Minister toured AUBH’s labs to see the students’ inventions up close, including the star attraction: Bahrain’s own robot, AUBHi.
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