Microsoft Establishes Groundbreaking AI Development Center in Abu Dhabi

Microsoft Corporation is setting up an engineering development center in Abu Dhabi, marking the first of its kind in the Arab world. The center will focus on innovations in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud technologies, and advanced cybersecurity solutions. This initiative follows Microsoft’s earlier strategic investment of $1.5 billion in the UAE government-backed AI firm, G42.

The new development center aims to bring cutting-edge technologies to the region, positioning Abu Dhabi as a leader in digital innovation. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, highlighted the significance of the center, stating, “Abu Dhabi’s advanced digital and physical infrastructure, combined with the UAE’s strategic location at the heart of the world, enables us to drive positive, far-reaching impacts across industries and societies alike.”

Microsoft Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella, emphasized that the Abu Dhabi center will attract new talent to the region and help spur innovation, driving economic growth and creating jobs for both the UAE and global markets.

In addition to this development, Microsoft and G42 recently announced plans to open two centers in Abu Dhabi dedicated to "responsible" AI. These centers will focus on ensuring the safe development, deployment, and use of generative AI models and applications.

Meanwhile, MGX, a technology investment company based in Abu Dhabi and founded by Mubadala and G42, along with Microsoft, BlackRock, and Global Infrastructure Partners, launched an AI infrastructure investment partnership. This partnership aims to mobilize up to $100 billion to advance the future of AI.

According to a PwC Middle East report, AI could contribute up to $96 billion to the UAE economy by 2030, accounting for 13.6% of the nation's GDP. This initiative by Microsoft is expected to play a significant role in achieving that growth.

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