Microsoft has announced a significant investment of $1.5 billion in G42, an artificial intelligence firm based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), acquiring a minority stake and securing a board seat in the company. Through this partnership, G42 will leverage Microsoft’s Azure cloud computing platform to deliver advanced AI solutions to global public sector clients and large enterprises. Microsoft President Brad Smith emphasized the collaboration’s focus on combining cutting-edge technology with robust standards for safe and responsible AI, in coordination with the governments of the UAE and the United States.
The strategic alliance aims to bring advanced AI capabilities and digital infrastructure to countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa, aligning with broader regional development objectives. As part of the partnership, Microsoft and G42 will establish a $1 billion fund to support developers in enhancing AI skills within the UAE and the wider region. The collaboration also includes provisions aimed at safeguarding AI products shared with G42, including measures to remove Chinese telecommunications equipment from G42’s operations, addressing concerns over potential security risks associated with such hardware.