Dubai strengthens tech leadership with AED 2 billion data centre

Dubai is taking another major step in its digital transformation with the launch of a groundbreaking AED 2 billion hyperscale data centre.

The project will be developed by telecom operator du, in partnership with Microsoft, which will serve as the facility’s main tenant.

The centre will be built in phases to meet growing demand for cloud services and AI capabilities.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai's Crown Prince and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, witnessed the announcement of the project on the sidelines of Dubai AI Week.

He said the centre represents a major investment in digital infrastructure, reinforcing Dubai’s leadership in technology and innovation.

Sheikh Hamdan added that "data is the wealth of the future" and highlighted Dubai’s commitment to supporting companies that use technology to benefit society.

The new data centre supports the goals of the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, launched in 2024, which focuses on growing local AI talent, integrating AI into government services, and expanding the city’s data infrastructure.

Dubai AI Week continues through April 25, with events held across key locations like the Museum of the Future and Emirates Towers, featuring over 180 speakers and more than 140 interactive sessions from experts around the world.

Hamdan bin Mohammed witnesses announcement of a groundbreaking AED 2 billion hyperscale data centre. The facility will be developed and operated by du in collaboration with Microsoft.@dutweets I @Microsoft pic.twitter.com/9dehhI2JZ5

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 22, 2025