Rapid Expansion Puts Emirate on the Global AI Map
Abu Dhabi AI Growth artificial intelligence (AI) sector has posted extraordinary growth, expanding 61% between June 2023 and June 2024. The emirate now boasts 673 AI-focused companies, making it one of the fastest-growing AI hubs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and a serious contender on the world stage.
Industry data from the Abu Dhabi AI Growth Chamber underscores how the city’s AI ecosystem is thriving, with a growing reputation for cutting-edge enterprise applications, research excellence, and world-class innovation.
150 New AI Firms Established in Six Months
The momentum has continued into 2025. In the first half of the year alone, Abu Dhabi AI Growth saw the creation of 150 new AI firms. This surge has been fueled by targeted investments, advanced infrastructure, and rising AI adoption across industries such as healthcare, logistics, education, and finance.
This rapid influx of companies reflects not only commercial opportunity but also Abu Dhabi’s ability to attract entrepreneurs, global talent, and investors eager to tap into its pro-innovation environment.
Innovation and Research Drive More Than Half of the Sector
A key differentiator for Abu Dhabi’s AI scene is its focus on innovation and knowledge development. More than 58% of AI businesses are engaged in research, product innovation, or consultancy—demonstrating that the growth is not purely numerical but rooted in sustainable, long-term capabilities.
By prioritizing intellectual capital and advanced solutions over short-term gains, Abu Dhabi AI Growth is building an AI ecosystem designed to compete at the highest global levels.
A Collaborative Ecosystem Linking Government, Industry, and Academia
According to Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi AI Growth Chamber, the emirate’s progress stems from a diverse community of innovators—including scientists, entrepreneurs, and policy leaders—working in harmony.
“This surge is not only about numbers; it reflects a vibrant, diverse community of entrepreneurs, scientists, and global leaders who recognize Abu Dhabi as a magnet for groundbreaking technology ventures,” he said.
The strong integration between government bodies, research institutions, and the private sector ensures that AI breakthroughs move quickly from concept to application, creating real economic and societal impact.
Institutions Powering Abu Dhabi’s AI Rise
Several leading organizations are at the core of this success:
- Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) – the world’s first graduate-level AI university, attracting top talent and conducting advanced research.
- Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC) – guiding AI policy and strategy nationally.
- Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) & Technology Innovation Institute (TII) – advancing pioneering technologies and AI models.
- AI71, Hub71, G42, and Space42 GIQ – fostering entrepreneurship, scaling AI businesses, and building global partnerships.
Notably, TII and MBZUAI are making significant strides in open-source AI development, expanding access to advanced models and tools for global research and business use.
Strategic Roadmap 2025–2028: Sustaining the Momentum
Looking ahead, the Abu Dhabi Chamber has outlined a 2025–2028 strategic plan to consolidate AI leadership. Core goals include:
- Enhancing the ease of doing business for AI startups and enterprises.
- Strengthening policy advocacy to support AI adoption.
- Expanding global connectivity with the AI ecosystem.
The newly formed Advocacy Working Group on Artificial Intelligence and Technology, comprising industry leaders, will shape the emirate’s AI future and keep it ahead of international trends.
Why This Matters
- Global Leadership Potential: A 61% annual AI growth rate and 150 new firms in six months signal a meteoric rise.
- Deep Expertise: A majority of companies are anchored in research and innovation.
- Unified Vision: Cross-sector collaboration accelerates commercialization of AI solutions.
- Future-Ready Planning: A clear multi-year roadmap positions Abu Dhabi for long-term AI leadership.
Abu Dhabi is not merely embracing the AI revolution—it is helping shape its direction. With robust infrastructure, strong talent pipelines, and strategic vision, the emirate is emerging as one of the world’s most dynamic and influential AI hubs.
