The United Arab Emirates announced on Saturday that it will invest $1 billion to expand AI infrastructure and AI-enabled services throughout Africa, with the goal of supporting countries as they pursue national development priorities.
UAE Minister of State Saeed Bin Mubarak Al Hajeri revealed the “AI for development initiative” during the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg, explaining that it aims to introduce advanced AI technologies to sectors such as education, healthcare, and climate adaptation.
“We consider AI not just as a future industry but a cornerstone of humanity’s future,” he said in a statement.
“Therefore, my country is actively accelerating innovation to enhance productivity and drive significant advancements in the global economy, with a strong commitment to developing responsible and inclusive AI for the benefit of everyone.”
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The UAE remains one of Africa’s biggest investors. Bilateral trade reached around $107 billion in 2024, marking a 28% increase from the previous year, while total investments across the continent exceeded $118 billion between 2020 and 2024, according to the statement reported by Reuters.
Abu Dhabi is also significantly expanding its AI capabilities, including plans to build one of the world’s largest data-centre hubs using U.S. technology.
Although the UAE is not a member of the Group of 20, which comprises the world’s major economies, it was invited to the Johannesburg summit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is hosting the G20 leaders’ meeting in Africa for the first time.
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Image Credit: Times of India
