Microsoft is investing $1.5 billion to fund AI development and promote the global expansion of Abu Dhabi-based firm G42.
The partnership is considered the first-ever Intergovernmental Assurance Agreement promoting world-class AI safety and security standards.
Microsoft Backs G42 on AI Advancement, Global Expansion
Tech firm G42 powers data centers in the Middle East and other locations. The company has been working to increase its identity as an AI firm. G42 is also credited as the developer of the world's leading Arabic-language AI model, Jais.
In a press release, Microsoft detailed that the strategic investment aims to share the latest AI technologies of the company with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other countries. Microsoft's president, Brad Smith, is set to join the G42 board of directors.
"This expanded collaboration will empower organizations of all sizes in new markets to harness the benefits of AI and the cloud while ensuring they are adopting AI that adheres to world-leading standards in safety and security," Microsoft wrote.
Microsoft Plans for Global Expansion Through Strategic Investments
The Microsoft and G42 collaboration is expected to bring a skilled and diverse AI workforce that will boost the innovation and competitiveness of the UAE. Moreover, the partnership was developed and backed by both governments.
G42 will run its AI applications and services on Microsoft's cloud computing platform. The UAE-based firm will bring the digital infrastructure to support its existing presence in Central Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Over the past year, Microsoft and G42 have celebrated several milestones including a joint plan to develop AI solutions for the public sector and the introduction of sovereign cloud offerings. Previously, Microsoft announced the availability of Jais on the new Azure AI Cloud Model-as-a-Service offering.
"This partnership is a testament to the shared values and aspirations for progress, fostering greater cooperation and synergy globally," said H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, G42's chairman.
