The UAE has announced a US$1 billion AI for Development initiative to support artificial intelligence projects in African countries. The government reported that the program aims to advance economic and social development by enhancing digital infrastructure, improving government services and increasing productivity.

The announcement was delivered by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, during the G20 summit. He reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to sustainable growth through international partnerships and innovative financing solutions.

The initiative will be implemented by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), part of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in cooperation with the UAE Foreign Aid Agency. Officials revealed that the partnership strengthens the UAE’s role in helping developing countries benefit from advanced technologies, particularly AI.

The program aims to integrate artificial intelligence into essential sectors such as education, agriculture and infrastructure. It also seeks to create innovative solutions that accelerate growth and expand opportunities for sustainable development.

ADEX Director-General His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi said the initiative reflects the UAE’s belief in AI as a driver of equitable and sustainable development. He added that combining technology, financing and partnerships will help developing nations build long-term economic resilience.

He noted that integrating AI in education, agriculture and infrastructure will open new opportunities for inclusive development. He also stated that the initiative will empower UAE enterprises to implement high-impact projects that strengthen cooperation between the UAE and African countries.

• Officials reported that the initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision of a knowledge-based economy.
• The program also reinforces the country’s position as a global hub for AI development and application.

His Excellency Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of the UAE Foreign Aid Agency, reaffirmed the UAE’s humanitarian and developmental leadership. He highlighted the country’s ongoing efforts to support communities and deploy AI tools to improve capacities in African nations.

He explained that the initiative reflects the UAE’s long-standing commitment to strengthening global solidarity and improving living standards worldwide, especially in regions facing major development challenges.

Al Ameri reported that many African countries require transformative support in education, healthcare and infrastructure. He noted that the UAE continues to rank highly in global AI indicators across key sectors.

The initiative forms part of the UAE’s wider foreign assistance strategy for Africa. Since 1971, the UAE has provided more than AED152 billion in aid to African nations. The new program will further enhance the contribution of UAE donor entities, including ADEX and the UAE Foreign Aid Agency, to AI-driven development projects.

The UAE stated that this landmark initiative reinforces its global standing as a leading hub for advanced technologies and smart systems. The program aims to support innovation and sustainable growth at regional and international levels through AI-powered solutions.

Source: Abu Dhabi Media Office

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