• Microsoft plans a USD 15.2B investment in the UAE through 2029 to expand AI, cloud, and digital infrastructure.
• The initiative builds on Microsoft’s partnership with G42 to strengthen AI collaboration and develop local digital talent across the UAE.
• Over USD 7.3B has already been invested, with another USD 7.9B planned to boost AI facilities and compliance standards.

Microsoft

Microsoft plans to invest a total of USD 15.2 billion in the United Arab Emirates. This investment will occur between the start of this initiative in 2023 and the end of the decade, in 2029. Additionally, the investment builds on Microsoft’s partnership with G42, a UAE-based AI technology holding company. 

The initiative aims to advance the country’s artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure. It also seeks to expand digital talent development and strengthen technological collaboration between the UAE and the United States.

The tech giant is also expanding its AI and cloud data centre infrastructure across the UAE. This includes exporting advanced graphics processing units (GPUs) from the US to the UAE that power the next generation of AI capabilities.

“Microsoft’s investment in the UAE is not just about technology, it’s about people. By cultivating AI talent and skilling individuals to develop, deploy and use AI in a way that reflects the region’s unique needs, Microsoft is helping to ensure that the UAE remains on the leading edge of AI diffusion,” said Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft. 

AI Infrastructure

Since 2023, Microsoft has invested over USD 7.3 billion in the UAE to strengthen its AI and cloud infrastructure. That includes USD 1..5 billion in G42 to deepen local partnerships and drive AI collaboration across industries. It also includes USD 4.6 billion in advanced data centers and USD 1.2 billion in local operating expenses.

The company plans to invest another USD 7.9 billion between 2026 and 2029 to expand its digital footprint. It is planning around USD 5.5 billion to go toward new AI and cloud facilities. It also includes almost USD 2.4 billion in local operating costs and the cost of goods sold.]

The tech giant is working closely with both the US and UAE governments to ensure compliance with cybersecurity, export control and responsible AI standards.