UAE Launches $1 Billion AI for Development to Boost Growth in Africa

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a new initiative called "AI for Development," investing $1 billion to support and fund artificial intelligence projects in African countries. This major announcement was made during the G20 summit by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

The "AI for Development" initiative aims to boost economic and social growth across Africa by improving digital infrastructure, enhancing government services, and increasing productivity. It focuses on helping developing countries use artificial intelligence in key sectors such as education, agriculture, and infrastructure. This will create new solutions to accelerate growth and provide more opportunities for sustainable development.

The project is being led by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), which is part of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. It is working closely with the UAE Foreign Aid Agency to ensure the initiative supports long-term development goals. This partnership highlights the UAE’s commitment to helping developing countries benefit from advanced technologies and harness the power of AI for positive change.

Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, said that the initiative shows the UAE’s belief that artificial intelligence is a powerful tool for fair growth and sustainable development. He explained that by combining technology, funding, and partnerships, the UAE wants to help African countries overcome challenges and build stronger economies.

He added that integrating AI into sectors like education, agriculture, and infrastructure opens up new possibilities for inclusive progress. The initiative will also allow UAE businesses to take part in important projects that strengthen economic and technological ties between the UAE and African nations. It supports global efforts to achieve sustainable development goals.

The initiative also honors the humanitarian and development vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. It reflects the ongoing support of the country’s leaders, including President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of the UAE Foreign Aid Agency, emphasized the UAE’s strong role in helping communities worldwide. He said the UAE continues to implement important projects that use AI to drive development, especially in Africa. Dr. Al Ameri explained that the initiative is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and build a better future for people facing development challenges.

Many African countries need projects like this to improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The UAE is becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence and technology, ranking highly in international indicators for digital advancement.

Since 1971, the UAE has given over AED 152 billion in aid to African countries. This new AI for Development initiative builds on that history, aiming to create more AI-based projects across the continent. It strengthens the UAE’s position as a center for innovative technologies and smart systems, helping to promote development, modernization, and inclusive growth worldwide.

This landmark initiative demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to global leadership in technology and development, providing smart solutions that drive sustainable progress in Africa and beyond.