Page 477 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - OCTOBER 2024

10/25/24, 11:28 AM UAE's Tech Transformation: AI and Data Centres Take Centre Stage at GITEX - Edge Middle East
HE Al Marri underscored the importance of energy availability for the growing data centre
industry. “We have the nuclear power plant in full operation and are seeing more solar energy
added to the grid. Clean energy now forms about 30 per cent of our energy mix, making the
UAE an attractive destination for data centre investments,” he explained. He also mentioned
the multiplier effect of data centres on the economy, noting that every dollar invested can yield
up to ten dollars in economic value.

A Collaborative Regulatory Environment

In addition to energy and infrastructure, the regulatory environment in the UAE has also played
a key role in attracting tech investments. The launch of the regulatory website, uaelab.ae, allows
tech companies to collaborate with the government to test regulations. “The idea is to bring
policymakers and tech experts together to create an environment where innovation thrives,” HE
Al Marri noted. He explained that this regulatory agility sets the UAE apart, creating a fertile
ground for new ideas and solutions, from AI applications to autonomous transportation
systems.

Talent and R&D as Pillars of Growth

The UAE’s focus is not just on attracting technology firms but also on nurturing home-grown
talent. “The UAE attracts the most AI talent after the US, and many of these experts consider
the UAE their home,” said HE Al Marri. He emphasised the importance of developing AI skills
among young people, highlighting the country’s investment in STEM programmes in schools
and AI camps for students. This focus on education ensures that the next generation is well-
prepared to contribute to the country’s AI ecosystem.

Research and development (R&D) is another area where the UAE makes significant headway.
The Minister expressed his desire for the country to become a global R&D headquarters,
attracting researchers and innovation centres to use the UAE as a base for exploring new
technologies. “We want the world to look at the UAE as an R&D hub, not just for our 10 million
people, but for the 300 million across the wider region,” he said.

A Bright Future for Tech in the UAE

With the proper infrastructure, regulatory environment, and focus on talent development, the
UAE is poised to be a significant player in the AI and tech landscape globally. As HE Al Marri
aptly said, “The UAE has always been a gateway for the region. We want to grow at seven per
cent yearly with a diverse and future-focused economy that includes AI, data centres, and
emerging technologies. We want the world to see the UAE as a launchpad for innovation.”

The UAE’s vision is clear: to be a global leader in tech, underpinned by ethical AI, a robust
infrastructure, and a commitment to R&D. The journey may be ambitious, but with the
momentum already gathered, the UAE is well on its way to redefining what’s possible in the
technology space.

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