UAE Announces $1 Billion Investment to Accelerate AI Development Across Africa

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled a $1 billion initiative to scale up artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and digital services across Africa, strengthening its role as a major player in the continent’s technological future.

The announcement was made by Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, UAE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the G20 Summit in Johannesburg on Saturday, according to Bloomberg. The investment marks one of the Gulf nation’s most significant commitments to Africa’s digital transformation agenda.

Investment to Expand AI Infrastructure and Modernise Services

Al Hajeri said the funding package will prioritise the expansion of digital infrastructure, the modernisation of government services, and the enhancement of productivity across key sectors. “It will provide access to AI computing power, technical expertise, and global partnerships,” he explained.

“It aims to support developing countries to overcome key developmental challenges by integrating AI technologies into these sectors.”

The UAE, already pouring billions into AI initiatives domestically and in the United States, has now become the fourth-largest investor in Africa, according to the minister.

Focus on Education, Agriculture, Health and Climate Adaptation

The initiative will support African countries in deploying AI-powered solutions in education, agriculture, healthcare, digital identity, and climate adaptation.

Improved digital identity systems, experts say, could significantly enhance access to essential social services and strengthen governance across the continent.

Al Hajeri emphasised that the UAE’s broader goal is to ensure the global South benefits from emerging AI capabilities.

“Our goal now is to ensure these capabilities benefit partners across the global South, and that no country is left behind in the AI age,” he said.

A Boost for Africa’s Global Competitiveness

Analysts believe the UAE’s investment could help Africa become more competitive in the global AI race, particularly as demand for data, automation, and advanced analytics grows worldwide.

By providing access to computing power and strategic partnerships, the UAE’s initiative is expected to unlock new opportunities for digital innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.