OpenAI has announced a landmark strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to create Stargate UAE, a large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) data center based in Abu Dhabi. This ambitious project is part of OpenAI's broader "OpenAI for Countries" initiative, aimed at expanding AI infrastructure and accessibility worldwide, and stands as one of the most substantial AI-related investments in the UAE to date. The new facility, dubbed Stargate UAE, will host a powerful one-gigawatt AI computing cluster. Of that capacity, around 200 megawatts are expected to be operational within the next year. This immense computing power is set to speed up AI research, development, and deployment throughout the region and beyond, supporting a wide range of applications across various sectors. A unique aspect of the agreement is that the entire UAE population will gain access to ChatGPT Plus subscriptions—a global first. This initiative allows millions of users in the UAE to engage directly with advanced AI capabilities via OpenAI’s popular conversational platform. Rolling out ChatGPT Plus nationwide aims to democratize AI access and promote a more digitally empowered society. The project involves a strong coalition of international and regional technology partners. Major collaborators include industry giants Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, and SoftBank, alongside Middle Eastern AI firm G42, which receives support from Microsoft. This partnership reflects a fusion of global and regional expertise driving AI innovation within the UAE. OpenAI’s leadership highlights Stargate UAE as a vital step in broadening global AI infrastructure while remaining aligned with AI progress primarily centered in the United States.

Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, stressed the importance of establishing the first Stargate facility outside the U. S. , noting it will accelerate advances in critical fields like medicine, education, and energy. He emphasized the broader goal of using AI to tackle worldwide challenges and enhance quality of life globally. For the UAE, this partnership represents a key pillar in its ambition to become a leading AI hub. By integrating cutting-edge technology and encouraging international collaboration, the country aims to cement its status at the forefront of AI innovation. The initiative is also projected to drive significant economic growth and foster new opportunities in technology development, research, and talent cultivation. Looking ahead, OpenAI intends to form similar strategic partnerships with other nations, furthering its mission to make advanced AI technologies accessible and beneficial globally. These efforts are expected to shape the future of AI deployment, ensuring inclusivity, alignment with regional needs, and adherence to safety and ethical standards. The Stargate UAE project symbolizes a pioneering advance not only for the UAE but for global AI cooperation. By combining extensive computational resources, an inclusive access approach, and international collaboration, this initiative establishes a model for cross-border AI infrastructure development. As the project progresses, experts anticipate a surge in innovative AI applications, increased public engagement with AI tools, and strengthened international dialogue on AI governance and best practices. In summary, OpenAI’s partnership with the UAE to establish Stargate UAE marks a historic milestone in the realm of artificial intelligence. Through substantial investment, strategic alliances, and a commitment to widespread accessibility, this project promises to accelerate AI advancement and integration across critical sectors, ultimately benefiting societies within the UAE and worldwide.