
OpenAI logo is seen in this illustration taken March 31, 2023.
The meeting focused on fostering collaboration between OpenAI and UAE-based organizations in AI research and its practical applications. “This cooperation aligns with the UAE’s ambition to establish an integrated AI ecosystem, supporting the country’s development plans and its drive to build a knowledge-based economy,” the agency stated. The discussions underscored the UAE’s commitment to advancing its technological infrastructure and innovation capabilities.
The UAE, a leading oil exporter, is investing heavily to position itself as a global hub for artificial intelligence. The country is developing one of the world’s largest AI data centers and creating a new Arabic-language AI model to support its technological ambitions. These efforts aim to diversify the economy and enhance its role in the global knowledge-based sector.
In May 2025, the UAE and the United States signed an agreement to construct one of the largest AI campuses outside the U.S., announced during a visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to Abu Dhabi. This partnership strengthens the UAE’s access to advanced AI technologies and supports its goal of building a robust AI ecosystem.
The UAE’s strategic focus on AI includes leveraging international collaborations to enhance research, infrastructure, and practical applications. The meeting with Altman highlights the country’s efforts to align with global leaders in AI innovation, ensuring sustainable growth and technological advancement in the region.