UAE Announces Major Push for AI Expansion Across Africa
The United Arab Emirates has launched a sweeping new initiative to strengthen AI technology partnerships UAE Africa, committing $1 billion to expand AI infrastructure and smart digital services across the continent. The investment aims to support African nations in reaching their national development and digital transformation goals.
Unveiled at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, the “AI for Development Initiative” focuses on using advanced AI tools in crucial sectors such as education, healthcare, climate adaptation, and public services. The UAE emphasized that artificial intelligence is essential for shaping global progress and boosting long-term economic growth.
AI Solutions Development Becomes a Strategic Focus
Saeed Bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, UAE Minister of State, presented the plan during the summit and highlighted the country’s long-term commitment to responsible innovation.
“We consider AI not just as a future industry but a cornerstone of humanity’s future,” he said.
He added that the UAE is accelerating innovation to strengthen productivity and ensure AI benefits are accessible to everyone. This aligns with the nation’s growing leadership in AI solutions development and digital transformation.
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UAE Strengthens Tech Partnerships and Trade With Africa
The UAE is already one of Africa’s largest economic partners, working alongside the United States, China, and the EU to fund major renewable energy, infrastructure, hospitality, and technology projects.
- Bilateral trade between the UAE and African countries hit $107 billion in 2024, a 28% increase from the previous year.
- Emirati investments crossed $118 billion between 2020 and 2024, underscoring the UAE’s expanding presence in Africa’s tech and development sectors.
The country is also scaling up its local AI capabilities, including plans to build one of the world’s biggest data-center hubs using U.S. technology.
Although not a G20 member, the UAE attended the summit on the invitation of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking the first time Africa has hosted the global gathering.
This story was first reported by Business Insider Africa. Read the full article here.
