Microsoft is on a mission to dominate the AI landscape, and its latest move? Capturing Abu Dhabi.
Microsoft is charging full steam ahead with its global AI expansion, with Abu Dhabi set to become the next big hub for cutting-edge AI development. On September 17, Microsoft unveiled plans to open two new AI centers in the city, marking another leap forward in its ambitious strategy.
Earlier this year, on April 16, Microsoft announced a high-profile partnership with UAE-based AI powerhouse G42, backing it with a hefty $1.5 billion investment. This partnership is designed to supercharge AI development and widen global access to these technologies.
The first of these new Abu Dhabi centers will be co-founded and co-funded with G42 and is endorsed by Abu Dhabi’s Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC).
Established on January 23, the AIATC is tasked with shaping the future of AI policy, infrastructure, and investment in the UAE, while working with local and global partners to accelerate Abu Dhabi’s role in the AI sector. The new AI center will focus on developing best practices and industry standards for responsible AI use, particularly in the Middle East and Global South.
The second center will extend Microsoft’s AI for Good Research Lab into Abu Dhabi, where it will focus on projects designed to tackle major societal issues.
Together, these two hubs will play a pivotal role in setting the rules for safe, ethical, and secure AI deployment. They’ll also work to ensure that AI systems are built with robust cybersecurity defenses against potential threats.
According to the latest crypto news, Abu Dhabi isn’t the only place on Microsoft’s radar.
The tech giant has been making bold moves elsewhere as well. In February, Microsoft committed €3.2 billion ($3.44 billion) to enhance AI infrastructure in Germany, followed by a $2 billion investment in Spain to establish data centers and AI infrastructure.
To top it off, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman recently revealed plans for long-term investments in the UK, underscoring the company’s unwavering global commitment to AI innovation.
