Khaberni - Microsoft continues to consolidate its presence in the UAE, launching and implementing a series of strategic projects and investments that boost the country's status as a global hub for artificial intelligence and digital transformation, and support its journey towards building a diverse and sustainable knowledge-based economy.
This step is part of a major investment plan by Microsoft from 2023 to 2029, totaling $15.2 billion USD, representing one of the company's largest investment commitments in the region. The plan focuses on three main pillars: technology, trust, and talent development, aiming to accelerate digital innovation, enhance cloud infrastructure, and empower local talent with advanced skills in artificial intelligence.
Long-term Commitment
Amro Kamel, General Manager of Microsoft in the UAE, stated that the company's investments in the country represent a long-term commitment to supporting its vision for digital transformation and leadership in artificial intelligence. He explained that the plan includes a $1.5 billion investment in the company "G42", and over $10 billion in developing advanced cloud data centers, alongside more than $3 billion to enhance local operations and build strategic partnerships.
Kamel mentioned in a statement to the UAE News Agency "WAM", that one of the pivotal initiatives within this plan is the collaboration with "Khazna Data Centers" part of the "G42" group, which aims to add a new capacity of 200 megawatts by 2026. This will enhance "Azure" sovereign cloud services within the country, and enable governmental and private entities to manage their digital operations with higher efficiency and security, thereby supporting the UAE's status as a regional center for technological solutions and artificial intelligence.
He clarified that these investments will positively reflect on national economic sectors by empowering innovators, supporting startups, and encouraging local industries to adopt next-generation technologies. He affirmed that Microsoft is working on building a comprehensive digital ecosystem that contributes to enhancing productivity, improving business efficiency, and achieving sustainable growth.
Human Capital Development
He added that the company prioritizes the development of human capital within its strategy in the country. Microsoft launched the "Microsoft Elevate UAE" initiative, targeting over 250,000 students and academics, in addition to 55,000 government employees, to equip them with the artificial intelligence skills needed for the future. This is part of its commitment to train one million people in the country by 2027.
Kamel pointed out that Microsoft also supports scientific research and development in the field of artificial intelligence through the "AI for Good" lab and the Global Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi. These contribute to the development of national talent and support research related to underrepresented global languages, enhancing the UAE’s presence as a knowledge innovation hub in the region.
Kamel confirmed that the next phase will witness further expansion of Microsoft's infrastructure in the country, through the establishment of new data centers and expanding partnerships with public and private sectors to support digital transformation needs in government, education, energy, and financial services sectors. He indicated that these projects will support the UAE's efforts in building a competitive digital economy and enhancing its status among economies most prepared for the future.
He noted that the company, in cooperation with the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and the "G42" group through the "Responsible AI Future Foundation", is developing ethical and sustainable innovation models. These models ensure that technological progress is based on principles of transparency, trust, and long-term sustainability, establishing the nation’s position as a global leader in adopting safe and responsible artificial intelligence.
The General Manager of Microsoft Emirates reiterated that the company's investments in the state are not just technical expansions, but a strategic partnership to support the UAE's vision in building an integrated digital economy based on knowledge and innovation. He emphasized that Microsoft is committed to supporting the nation's ambitions to be a global model for sustainable digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
