France and UAE Partner on Landmark AI Data Centre
Deal News | Feb 07, 2025 | Zawya
France and the United Arab Emirates have reached a significant agreement to develop a 1 gigawatt artificial intelligence-focused data centre. The investment for this innovative project is estimated to be between $30 billion and $50 billion. During a bilateral meeting between President Emmanuel Macron and UAE's Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, both leaders expressed commitment to forming a strategic partnership aimed at boosting the AI value chain. The project will encompass advancements in French and Emirati AI capabilities, acquisition of advanced technology, talent nurturing, and the creation of sovereign AI and cloud infrastructures through virtual data embassies. An anticipated announcement on the first set of investments is expected at the upcoming Choose France summit, and France has already identified 35 potential sites for the data centres.
Sectors
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
Geography
- France – France is a key participant in this agreement, hosting part of the investment and development for AI data centres.
- United Arab Emirates – The UAE partners with France in this agreement and will benefit from the investments in AI technology and infrastructure.
Industry
- Information Technology – The development of AI data centres falls under the IT industry, focusing on cutting-edge AI capabilities and technological advancements.
- Artificial Intelligence – The agreement highlights the strategic importance of AI, showcasing efforts to enhance capabilities in this rapidly evolving field.
Financials
- $30-$50 billion – Estimated investment range for the development of a 1 gigawatt AI data centre in the partnership between France and the UAE.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| France | Participant | Government | The French government is entering a bilateral agreement with the UAE for AI data centre development. |
| United Arab Emirates | Participant | Government | The UAE government collaborates with France for joint investments and projects in AI technology. |
| Emmanuel Macron | Leader | People | President of France, hosting and engaged in the joint statement for AI data centre collaboration. |
| Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan | Leader | People | Emirati counterpart of Macron and key figure in formalizing the AI collaboration. |