UAE AI Investment Boost for Africa
The UAE AI investment plan will reshape digital growth in Africa. The United Arab Emirates announced a $1 billion package to expand AI services across the continent. The project aims to support national development goals in several countries.
Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri shared the update at the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg. He said the new initiative will bring AI tools into education, healthcare and climate adaptation. In addition, it will help people and institutions use technology in a more inclusive way.
He highlighted the UAE’s long term vision for digital progress. According to him, AI is not only a future industry. It is a key part of humanity’s shared progress. Therefore, the UAE plans to push innovation that boosts productivity and encourages responsible use of technology.
Growing Presence
The UAE continues to strengthen its presence in Africa. Bilateral trade reached about $107 billion in 2024. This marks a 28% rise from the previous year. The country also invested more than $118 billion in Africa between 2020 and 2024.
These numbers reflect a growing partnership. Many African nations see technology as a path to faster development. The UAE wants to support that shift with new digital tools and AI enabled services.
Abu Dhabi is also expanding its own AI capacity. It plans to build one of the world’s largest data centre hubs. The new hub will use advanced US technology and support global AI development. As a result, the UAE hopes to become a leading innovation destination.
Although the UAE is not a G20 member, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa invited the country to the summit. The event is the first G20 gathering hosted in Africa. This invitation also shows the UAE’s growing influence in global economic discussions.
The investment signals a new chapter for African digital growth. It also highlights the UAE’s role as a leading supporter of technology in emerging markets. With stronger partnerships, both regions can work toward shared progress.
