In a significant move to bolster global artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, OpenAI has announced plans to establish the world’s largest AI data center in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The project, named “Stargate UAE,” is a collaborative effort involving OpenAI, Emirati technology firm G42, and major tech companies including Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, and SoftBank.
Stargate UAE is set to be a 10-square-mile facility with an ultimate capacity of 5 gigawatts, making it the largest AI data center complex outside the United States. The initial phase will deploy 200 megawatts of capacity, with operations expected to commence in 2026. The center will utilize Nvidia’s advanced Grace Blackwell GB300 AI servers, incorporating approximately 100,000 chips to power around 1,400 servers.
This initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to position itself as a global leader in AI. The country has committed to investing $1.4 trillion in the United States to support job creation, economic growth, and technological advancement. As part of this partnership, the UAE will become the first nation to enable nationwide access to ChatGPT Plus subscriptions, providing its population with advanced AI tools.
The Stargate project also reflects a strategic collaboration between the UAE and the United States. Following recent negotiations, the U.S. has lifted previous export controls on AI chips to the UAE, allowing the export of up to 500,000 AI chips annually. In return, the UAE has committed to funding comparable AI infrastructure in the U.S. through investments like the MGX fund.
OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, emphasized the global impact of establishing Stargate UAE, citing potential advancements in medicine, education, and energy. The initiative is part of OpenAI’s “OpenAI for Countries” program, aiming to expand AI infrastructure globally while aligning international developments with U.S.-based AI systems.
The Stargate UAE project signifies a major step in global AI development, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to technological innovation and its strategic partnership with leading AI organizations.
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