What You Need to Know
The United Arab Emirates has announced a $1 billion investment to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure across Africa, aiming to assist nations in achieving their national development priorities. This initiative, unveiled by UAE Minister of State Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri at the G20 Leaders’ Summit, focuses on integrating AI into sectors such as education, healthcare, and climate change.
Africa. The United Arab Emirates has announced that it will invest $1 billion to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure and services across Africa, aiming to assist countries in achieving their national development priorities.
UAE Minister of State Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri unveiled the initiative “AI for Development” during the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, stating that it will introduce AI technology into sectors such as education, healthcare, and climate adaptation.
He said in a statement, “We do not view artificial intelligence merely as a future industry, but as a cornerstone of humanity’s future.” He continued, “Therefore, my country is actively working to accelerate innovation to enhance productivity and drive significant progress in the global economy, with a strong commitment to developing responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence.”
The UAE is one of the largest investors in Africa. Its bilateral trade volume in 2024 was approximately $107 billion, a 28% increase from the previous year, and its total investments in Africa exceeded $118 billion between 2020 and 2024, according to the statement.
Abu Dhabi is heavily investing in artificial intelligence, with plans to build one of the largest data centers in the world in the country using American technology.
Although the UAE is not a member of the G20, which includes the world’s largest economies, it received an invitation to attend the meeting from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is hosting the G20 Leaders’ Summit for the first time in Africa.
The United Arab Emirates has been a significant player in Africa’s economic landscape, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $107 billion in 2024, marking a 28% increase from the previous year. Between 2020 and 2024, total UAE investments in Africa exceeded $118 billion, reflecting a strong commitment to fostering economic ties and development in the region.
In recent years, the UAE has intensified its focus on technology and innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence. Plans to establish one of the world’s largest data centers in the UAE using American technology underscore this commitment.
