Dubai Future Foundation, IBM Partner to Establish Dubai as Global AI Hub

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and IBM signed a major agreement today at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global center for artificial intelligence (AI). The agreement, in the form of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focuses on advancing AI adoption and innovation in Dubai.

This partnership supports the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double Dubai’s economy over the next ten years and establish the city among the top three global destinations for business and innovation. It also aligns with the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, a strategy designed to accelerate AI development and make Dubai a global leader in AI technology.

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The signing took place in the presence of:

His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, Vice-Chair of the World Governments Summit, and Deputy Managing Director of Dubai Future Foundation.
Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO of IBM.
Saad Toma, General Manager of IBM Middle East and Africa.
His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation.
Leaders Highlight the Importance of AI Innovation
Speaking about the partnership, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama said:
"The UAE believes that strong partnerships between the government and private sector are key to building a world-class AI ecosystem. By working together, we can create innovative solutions that will strengthen Dubai’s position as a leader in AI technology and its real-world applications."

IBM’s Chairman and CEO, Arvind Krishna, also expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating:
"IBM is proud to work with Dubai Future Foundation to drive AI innovation and economic growth. This partnership will help position Dubai as a global leader in AI and ensure the technology is developed and used responsibly."

AI Innovation Center and Dubai AI Week
As part of this partnership, IBM will help set up a sovereign cloud and AI innovation center in Dubai. This center will support research, development, and the expansion of AI-driven solutions in the region.

IBM has also confirmed its participation in the first-ever Dubai AI Week, taking place from April 21-25, 2025. This event will bring together global AI experts, thought leaders, and decision-makers for conferences, discussions, and exhibitions. IBM will play a key role by hosting workshops, expert talks, and masterclasses to share AI knowledge and expertise. Additionally, DFF and IBM will release joint white papers during the event, covering AI trends and advancements.

IBM’s General Manager for the Middle East and Africa, Saad Toma, said:
"By partnering with Dubai Future Foundation, we can accelerate AI development and bring real-world solutions that empower businesses and improve lives. Together, we are shaping a future where technology enhances every part of society."

Supporting AI Startups and Innovation
Under the agreement, IBM will:

Organize Tech Talks at Dubai Future Foundation.
Provide mentorship to AI startups.
Offer AI tools and advisory services to help businesses and institutions adopt AI effectively.
His Excellency Khalfan Juma Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, emphasized that working with IBM reflects Dubai’s strong commitment to AI development. He said:
"Dubai Future Foundation is dedicated to advancing the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). Partnering with IBM, a global technology leader, will accelerate AI adoption across key sectors and support Dubai’s vision of becoming the most future-ready city in the world."

AI at the World Governments Summit 2025
The World Governments Summit 2025, held from February 11-13, focuses heavily on AI and how it can transform governance and public services. The event features discussions with global experts on the impact of AI and emerging technologies.

This year’s summit is the largest edition yet, welcoming:

• 30+ heads of state and government.
• Over 80 international organizations.
• 140 government delegations.
• 6,000 participants, including top experts and decision-makers.

Dubai’s collaboration with IBM marks a major step forward in its journey to becoming a global AI powerhouse, fostering innovation, economic growth, and smarter governance.