Microsoft UAE investment totals $15.2 billion from 2023 to 2029. The company commits this sum to advance AI infrastructure, cloud services, and workforce skills in the United Arab Emirates. Leaders from both sides met in Abu Dhabi to outline the plan’s scope and impact. Brad Smith, Microsoft Vice Chair and President, briefed Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince.​
By the end of 2025, Microsoft will spend over $7.3 billion. This covers a $1.5 billion stake in G42, $4.6 billion for AI and cloud data centres, plus $1.2 billion in local operations. From 2026 to 2029, another $7.9 billion follows, with $5.5 billion for infrastructure growth and $2.4 billion for ongoing costs. The funds come from Microsoft’s global resources to fuel local economic gains.​
Microsoft UAE investment is a strategic economic boost, supporting the UAE’s vision of a knowledge-based economy. It enhances Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for capital and innovation, attracting more global tech investments. The initiative reflects confidence in the UAE’s long-term development plans.
Cloud Infrastructure Boost
Microsoft teams up with G42’s Khazna Data Centres to deliver 200 megawatts of new capacity by the end of 2026. Workers install advanced Azure sovereign cloud setups inside the UAE borders. More than $10 billion drives these data centre builds and AI computing power. The expansion ensures data stays within UAE control for security.​
Microsoft holds a board position at G42 after its equity buy. The U.S. government grants export licenses for NVIDIA GPUs, including A100, H100, and H200 models, for over 80,000 A100 equivalents. These chips fuel model training and secure workloads for businesses and agencies. Compliance with cybersecurity and AI standards guides all imports.​
Talent Development Drive
Microsoft rolls out the Elevate UAE initiative to equip 250,000 students, academics, and educators with AI and cloud expertise. The program also reaches 55,000 government staff. Microsoft targets one million skilled individuals across the UAE by 2027. Training covers practical tools for real-world use.​
The AI for Good Lab and Engineering Development Centre in Abu Dhabi train experts. Researchers focus on AI models for underrepresented languages. These efforts build a strong talent pool for national innovation. Programs link universities and firms to speed skill adoption.​
Strategic Partnerships Grow
Microsoft forges deeper links in energy, finance, education, and public sectors. Partners modernise operations and boost startups with next-gen tools. G42 CEO Peng Xiao highlights execution in digital infrastructure and cross-border trust. Joint projects test AI in healthcare and logistics.​
Amr Kamel, Microsoft UAE General Manager, stresses alignment with the UAE’s economic goals. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomes the vote of confidence in the region’s tech-driven future. The Microsoft UAE investment cements the nation’s role in global AI networks. Data centre expansions and skill programs drive digital sovereignty and diversification.​
