IFM releases six AI models with full development data

Abu Dhabi-based research institute IFM released six artificial intelligence models on Thursday along with the complete data and methods used to create them.

The K2 Horizon release includes model weights, training data, code, methodologies and intermediate checkpoints. This allows researchers to retrace the models’ development process and reproduce results, IFM founder Eric Xing told Reuters.

The approach differs from the "open-weight" method used by some Chinese developers, which make models available for download but offer limited information about their construction. It also stands apart from the practices of companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic, which do not release their models for download or share the data and techniques behind them.

"Our goal with this release is to establish a reference point for what a truly open model release can look like," the report said citing Xing.

He added that the release aims to demonstrate to policymakers, regulators and public-interest advocates that "openness and competitive performance are not mutually exclusive."

The launch is part of the UAE’s efforts to position itself as a global AI hub.