DMCC Launches AI Centre to Boost Innovation in MENA Region

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), the Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise, has unveiled the DMCC AI Centre, a groundbreaking platform designed to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and develop real-world applications for businesses across the MENA region.

The launch event saw over 60 high-profile attendees, including Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), Dr. Marwan Alzarouni, Chief AI Officer at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), as well as ambassadors, government ministers, and leaders from top AI companies.

During his address, Khalfan Belhoul emphasized the UAE’s goal to become a global AI leader by 2031, aligning with the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence. He recognized the DMCC AI Centre as a key milestone towards making Dubai a premier hub for AI innovation and emerging technologies.

Occupying two floors at DMCC’s Uptown Tower headquarters, the AI Centre will integrate with DMCC’s existing tech ecosystems, including the DMCC Crypto Centre and Gaming Centre. The AI Centre will offer advanced co-working spaces, cutting-edge meeting rooms, and an exclusive AI solution showroom for businesses. Currently, DMCC hosts over 50 global AI and robotics firms, including industry giants such as AMD, Autel Robotics, and HIKVISION.

The centre has already partnered with leading AI players. Global software developer Builder.ai will support DMCC members in building AI-powered apps, while UAE-based AGCC will run accelerator programs to scale up AI technologies in the region. A $100,000 startup competition focused on sustainability-driven AI solutions is set to take place at the Expand North Star event in Dubai this October.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, said, “With AI projected to contribute over $15 trillion to the global economy by 2030, its impact on global trade, supply chains, and business is undeniable. The DMCC AI Centre will offer an ecosystem for companies to access cutting-edge AI services from Dubai, benefiting both AI and non-AI businesses.”

Sachin Dev Duggal, Founder & Chief Wizard of Builder.ai, added, “We are thrilled to partner with DMCC AI Centre to bring transformative AI solutions to the business community in Dubai and the MENA region. Our collaboration will empower businesses to achieve scalable growth through advanced technology.”