OpenAI is making a significant move in the UAE with a groundbreaking partnership that includes free access to ChatGPT Plus for all residents in the region. This deal is part of a larger plan to establish the UAE as a key player in the global AI race, with OpenAI at the forefront. The initiative includes the development of Stargate UAE, a state-of-the-art AI data centre in Abu Dhabi, which will host one of the world’s most powerful AI computing clusters, with the first phase set to deliver around 200 megawatts of power by next year.
This partnership aligns with OpenAI’s new “OpenAI for Countries” initiative, which aims to help nations develop their own AI infrastructure and tools while maintaining strong ties with the United States. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has described the initiative as a “bold vision” to extend the benefits of AI to more parts of the world. The UAE is not working alone in this venture; global tech giants like Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, SoftBank, and G42 are also involved, positioning the UAE as a central hub for AI innovation in the region.
As part of the agreement, all residents of the UAE will have free access to ChatGPT Plus, OpenAI’s premium AI tool. This gives the public access to powerful tools for writing, coding, learning, and even planning trips without needing a subscription fee. This marks a major step in making cutting-edge AI accessible to everyone, not just tech professionals.
The collaboration also includes the UAE’s commitment to investing as much in AI projects in the United States as it does at home, potentially contributing up to $20 billion in total investments. OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, Jason Kwon, is also expected to explore similar partnerships across the Asia Pacific region, indicating that the UAE is just the beginning of OpenAI’s global expansion.
The UAE partnership is not only about building advanced data centres and offering free access to ChatGPT Plus; it’s about making AI work for people in ways that meet local needs, respect national rules, and protect user data. With OpenAI’s guidance, the UAE is fast-tracking its AI ambitions, and this collaboration could set the stage for more countries to develop their own AI ecosystems soon.
