Microsoft’s $1.5 billion investment in UAE-based G42 to enable secure development and deployment of AI

Tech giant Microsoft has announced a $1.5 billion strategic investment in G42, the leading UAE-based artificial intelligence (AI) technology holding company. It marks a collaboration between Microsoft’s robust global infrastructure and G42’s unique AI capabilities.

The investment is expected to enable secure, trusted and responsible development and deployment of AI across the globe. Both companies are set to ensure the benefits of this evolving technology are responsibly shared among developing economies.

Ensuring organisations adhere to strict AI regulations

Microsoft and G42 are also reported to support the establishment of a $1 billion fund for developers. Overall, this expanded collaboration is expected to support organisations of all sizes and simultaneously ensure they adhere to strict safety and security standards.

G42 is ready to run its artificial intelligence applications and services on Microsoft Azure and partner to deliver advanced technological solutions to global public sector clients and enterprises, according to a press release.

Microsoft-G42 collaboration to accelerate AI development

Brad Smith, the vice chair and president of Microsoft, is set to take a seat on the G42 Board. Through the expanded collaboration, both companies can offer multiple countries equitable access to services to address important governmental and business concerns.

HH Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, Chairman of G42, said the strategic investment by Microsoft represents a pivotal moment in the UAE-based company’s journey, signifying an alignment of vision and execution between both organisations.

Partnership backed by assurances to both governments

The partnership is ready to support the development of a skilled and diverse AI workforce and talent pool that is expected to drive innovation and competitiveness for the UAE and broader region with the investment of $1 billion in a development fund for developers.

The press release also noted that the partnership is supported by assurances to both governments through a unique agreement to apply the best practices to ensure secure, trusted and responsible development and deployment of AI.