TSMC, Samsung Eye $100 Billion Chip Factories in UAE

According to The Wall Street Journal, semiconductor giants TSMC (2330.TW) and Samsung Electronics (005930.KS) are exploring the possibility of establishing chip manufacturing plants in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The potential projects, valued at over $100 billion, could significantly advance the UAE’s tech landscape.

Top executives from Taiwan’s TSMC have visited the UAE to discuss a plant complex, potentially rivaling their most advanced facilities in Taiwan. South Korea-based Samsung Electronics is also considering setting up chip-making operations in the UAE, the report said.

TSMC told Reuters it has no immediate investment plans to announce, stating, “We are always open to constructive discussion on ways to promote the semiconductor industry, but we remain focused on our current global expansion projects.” Samsung has declined to comment on the WSJ report.

The talks, which involve UAE funding and the Abu Dhabi-based sovereign fund Mubadala, are still in the early stages and face several technical challenges.

This move underscores the UAE’s ambition to diversify its economy by entering the advanced tech manufacturing sector.