Rapid growth of AI sector in Abu Dhabi: Expansion reaches 61%, transforming the city into a prominent global innovation center.

Abu Dhabi Leads the Way in Global AI Adoption

Abu Dhabi, a city in the United Arab Emirates, is setting global standards for AI adoption across strategic sectors. The emirate's impressive growth in the AI sector is driven by a robust strategic vision, strong private sector participation, and a vibrant ecosystem of AI companies heavily invested in research and innovation.

As of 2024, there are approximately 90,904 AI companies worldwide, making Abu Dhabi's AI company count a notable concentration within the global landscape. The city's government has created exceptional policies that have driven remarkable results in the AI sector. In just one year, the sector expanded by an impressive 61%, and in the first six months of 2025 alone, 150 new AI firms launched, with 58% of them focusing on research and development.

The strength of collaboration between government and business, global leaders and emerging innovators, and research and industry in Abu Dhabi's AI sector is notable. Institutions like AIATC, ATRC, TII, Hub71, G42, and Space42 GIQ provide comprehensive institutional support, driving AI adoption across sectors.

Abu Dhabi's AI sector growth is also fueled by advanced digital infrastructure and data centers that underpin AI deployment and innovation. The city benefits from high-quality infrastructure, such as advanced digital networks, cloud computing, and local data centers.

High-caliber talent development is another key factor in Abu Dhabi's success. The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) upskills the workforce, supporting sustained AI capability growth. MBZUAI, the world's first graduate level, research-focused university dedicated to AI, continues to attract world-class talent and ranks among the top global institutions for AI research impact.

The UAE’s human-centric digital transformation policies and a highly efficient government AI strategy enhance Abu Dhabi’s global AI leadership. The emirate's AI sector is characterized by a vibrant, diverse community of entrepreneurs, scientists, and global leaders who recognize Abu Dhabi as a magnet for groundbreaking technology venture.

In addition, an Advocacy Working Group on Artificial Intelligence and Technology has been established to shape the future of AI in Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Chamber's new strategic roadmap (2025-28) focuses on ease of doing business, policy advocacy, and ecosystem connectivity.

Sebastien Dui, CEO of SureFlow, praised Abu Dhabi's government for its strategic approach to providing advanced infrastructure and cross-sector investment, which has been outstanding. AI is fundamentally reshaping businesses across all sectors, and in Abu Dhabi, it is shifting from automation to intelligent optimization, helping companies make better decisions, streamline operations, and improve efficiency.

In summary, Abu Dhabi's AI sector growth is fueled by a robust strategic vision, strong private sector participation, substantial ecosystem expansion, institutional support, advanced digital infrastructure, high-caliber talent development, government initiatives promoting ease of doing business, and a proactive, people-focused digital services strategy. These combined factors position Abu Dhabi as the leading AI hub in the MENA region, with growth surpassing regional and global averages.

Muzaffar Rizvi, an accomplished financial journalist with over 25 years of experience in the UAE and Pakistan, stated that Abu Dhabi's AI sector is rapidly evolving from early adoption to real-world transformation. Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Second Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the city's potential as a global leader in AI-driven enterprise, innovation, and research.

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