US-UAE multi-billion dollar AI data campus deal far from finalised, sources say

Strategic Partnership for AI Leadership

The United States and the United Arab Emirates have announced a comprehensive agreement to build one of the world’s largest artificial intelligence data campuses in Abu Dhabi. The initiative is part of the recently launched “US-UAE AI Acceleration Partnership,” designed to strengthen collaboration on advanced technologies and safeguard critical AI infrastructure between the two nations.

The partnership was unveiled at a high-profile ceremony at Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi, attended by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and U.S. President Donald J. Trump, underscoring the geopolitical and economic significance of this historic deal[1][3].

Details of the Mega AI Campus

• The new facility will feature 5GW of capacity for AI data centers, making it the largest AI campus outside the US.
• Spanning 10 square miles, the campus will be developed by UAE-based G42 in partnership with U.S. companies.
• Power for the development will be sourced from nuclear, solar, and gas, significantly reducing carbon emissions and aligning with global sustainability goals[1][3].
• The data center will provide a base for American hyperscalers and enterprises, enabling them to offer cloud services to nearly half the world’s population within a 3,200 km radius of Abu Dhabi.
• The campus will also house a science park to drive AI research and innovation in the region[1][3].

Economic and Security Framework

The agreement introduces strong security guarantees to prevent the diversion of U.S. technology, in line with American national security priorities. American firms will operate and manage the data centers, offering secure cloud services throughout the Middle East and beyond. The partnership will also streamline UAE digital infrastructure investments into the United States and create a joint working group within 30 days to oversee implementation and ensure the responsible deployment of AI technologies[1].

Powering America’s AI Leadership

The US commerce secretary described the agreement as a “major milestone in achieving President Trump’s vision for U.S. AI dominance.” By enabling American technology and management standards to shape one of the Middle East’s most advanced digital infrastructures, the deal is expected to catalyze unprecedented bilateral economic growth and technological progress[1].

Next Steps

Implementation of the agreement is set to begin immediately, with construction and operational frameworks in place to accelerate both infrastructure development and regulatory coordination[1]. Strategic investments and cross-border digital infrastructure integration will be closely monitored by the new joint working group, ensuring the delivery of AI solutions that are secure, efficient, and scalable for global needs.

Conclusion

This multi-billion dollar accord not only cements the US-UAE relationship at the forefront of global AI development but also promises significant advances in data-driven technologies, innovation, and international technology trade. The initiative stands as a model for global cooperation in the age of artificial intelligence[1][3].

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