In a historic technological partnership, the United Arab Emirates and the United States have entered into an agreement to create the world’s largest artificial intelligence (AI) campus in Abu Dhabi. The news was released on the official visit of US President Donald Trump to the UAE when he met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Under this agreement, both countries will co-develop the largest AI data centre outside the United States.
The project will begin with the development of a 1-gigawatt AI data center, as per the US Commerce Department. The project will expand over time and cover an area of 10 square miles, representing a major expansion of American AI and cloud infrastructure in the Middle East.
The White House said, “The AI accord includes the UAE pledging to invest in, construct, or finance US data centers that are at least as big and as capable as in the UAE.” The pact is also viewed as an attempt to enhance access and services for the Global South, enhancing the reach of US-based technology firms in emerging markets.
Again emphasizing the security component of the agreement, the White House went on to say, “The agreement also includes historic commitments by the UAE to further align their national security regulations with the United States, including robust protections to prevent the diversion of US-origin technology.”
According to a Reuters report, the two countries also reached agreement on a general technology framework involving reciprocal commitments to protecting the integrity and security of common technologies.
