The United Arab Emirates has unveiled a $1 billion initiative to support and finance artificial intelligence projects across African countries. Announced at the G20 Summit by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the AI for Development program aims to expand the use of advanced technologies in critical sectors, including education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
The initiative forms part of the UAE’s broader strategy to position itself as a global hub for AI and knowledge-driven growth. According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, Al Nahyan emphasized the UAE’s commitment “to driving sustainable growth through broader international partnerships and innovative financing solutions that support development in emerging economies.”
The program will be implemented by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX) under the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in collaboration with the UAE Foreign Aid Agency. It is designed to provide both financing and technical support to African nations seeking to integrate AI tools into government operations and economic systems.
The Director-general of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and Chairman of the Exports Executive Committee of ADEX, Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, said the initiative reflects the UAE’s belief that artificial intelligence can advance equitable growth and sustainable development.
“By combining technology, financing, and partnerships, we aim to support developing countries in overcoming developmental challenges and building long-term economic resilience”, he added.
The program is expected to help African nations leverage AI to address key developmental challenges, particularly in education, agriculture, and infrastructure. “Integrating AI technologies into these sectors opens new horizons for inclusive development”, Al Suwaidi noted, adding that the initiative will also empower UAE enterprises to execute high-impact development projects in education, healthcare, and infrastructure and strengthen economic and technological cooperation with African nations,
Chairman of the UAE Foreign Aid Agency, Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, highlighted that the AI for Development initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to global solidarity and cooperative development.
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