UAE Invests $1 Billion in AI Infrastructure Across Africa
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a $1 billion investment to develop artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and related services across Africa. The goal is to help countries address their national development priorities.
Initiative for AI for Development
The program, dubbed "Initiative for AI for Development," was announced at the G20 leaders' summit in Johannesburg. It will bring AI technology to areas such as:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Climate change adaptation
The initiative will be implemented by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office, part of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in partnership with the Emirati Foreign Aid Agency.
UAE's Presence in Africa
Although the UAE is not a member of the G20, which comprises the world's largest economies, it was invited to the meeting by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is hosting the G20 leaders' summit in Africa for the first time. The UAE considers AI a cornerstone of humanity's future and is actively accelerating innovation to improve productivity and drive significant progress in the global economy.
Continuation of UAE's Presence in Africa
This investment is a continuation of the UAE's presence in the continent. The UAE is one of the largest investors in Africa, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $107 billion in 2024, a 28% increase from the previous year. Total UAE investments in Africa between 2020 and 2024 exceeded $118 billion.
Geo-Economic and Geo-Political Strategy
The UAE's engagement in AI development in Africa is part of a multi-dimensional geo-economic and geo-political strategy that goes beyond a simple cooperation initiative. As a central pillar of their post-oil vision, this approach aims to consolidate their technological leadership by exporting their model and standards to a rapidly growing continent, which serves as a testing ground and future consumer market.
Geopolitical Implications
On a geopolitical level, the UAE is using AI as a soft power lever to increase its diplomatic influence in Africa, a strategic competition space. By presenting itself as a modern and responsible technological partner, the UAE is building a positive image, gaining privileged access to decision-makers, and differentiating itself from other actors, such as China.
