Hajra Naz
Key Takeaways
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61% AI sector growth in one year, making Abu Dhabi the fastest-growing AI hub in MENA.
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673 AI companies now operate in the emirate, with 58% dedicated to innovation and research.
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Strategic institutions like AIATC, ATRC, TII, and Hub71 drive adoption across industries.
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150 AI startups launched in the first half of 2025 alone.
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A 2025–2028 roadmap focuses on global competitiveness and long-term AI leadership.
ABU DHABI, Aug 12 (WAM/APP) – The artificial intelligence (AI) sector in Abu Dhabi is growing at a record pace. The emirate is now one of the world’s most dynamic AI hubs and the clear leader in the Middle East and North Africa.
Fresh data from the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry shows AI companies surged by 61% between June 2023 and June 2024. That brings the total to 673 firms focused on AI. The growth rate is well ahead of both regional and global averages. It strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as an innovation powerhouse.
Globally, there are around 90,904 AI companies in 2024. For its size, Abu Dhabi holds an unusually high share of talent and enterprise.
AI Leadership Across the MENA Region and Beyond
Abu Dhabi is fast becoming a global leader in AI. It’s driving breakthroughs in enterprise solutions, advanced research, and real-world applications.
This rise is backed by strong institutions, including:
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Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC)—shaping AI policy and infrastructure.
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Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC)—pushing frontiers in AI and science.
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Technology Innovation Institute (TII)—leading applied AI research.
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AI71, Hub71, G42, and Space42 GIQ—spreading AI across healthcare, energy, and even space.
More than 58% of AI companies in Abu Dhabi focus on research, innovation, and consultancy. This shows a deep commitment to R&D over quick wins.
Record-Breaking AI Startup Growth
From January to June 2025, 150 new AI companies launched in the emirate. This was driven by:
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Heavy public and private investment.
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World-class digital infrastructure.
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Strong demand from sectors like finance, logistics, energy, and healthcare.
Driving AI from Vision to Real-World Impact
Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, second vice chairman and managing director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, said
”The AI sector is moving from early adoption to real-world transformation.”
He stressed that it’s not just about numbers. The goal is to build a diverse, collaborative ecosystem that attracts top talent, scientists, and global leaders.
Read More: Abu Dhabi University Introduces ChatGPT Guidelines for Students and Faculty in UAE
Strategic Roadmap for AI Leadership
Central to this transformation is the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s 2025–2028 strategic roadmap, which prioritizes:
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Ease of doing business to attract high-impact ventures.
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Policy advocacy to shape AI-friendly regulations.
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Ecosystem connectivity to link startups, investors, academia, and global corporations.
The Chamber’s Advocacy Working Group unites AI leaders. It helps shape the emirate’s AI future. The goal is to keep Abu Dhabi competitive in the global tech economy.
FAQs on Abu Dhabi’s AI Boom
1. What makes Abu Dhabi one of the fastest-growing AI hubs?
Government-backed investment is driving growth. Advanced infrastructure supports the sector. Policies encourage constant innovation. Together, these factors have fueled record AI growth in Abu Dhabi.
2. How does Abu Dhabi’s AI ecosystem compare globally?
Abu Dhabi now has 673 AI companies. Growth is rapid year over year. It is a concentrated hub for AI talent. This stands out in a global market of over 90,000 AI firms.
3. Which sectors are driving AI adoption in Abu Dhabi?
Key sectors that are all leveraging AI for efficiency and innovation include
- Healthcare
- Financial services
- Energy
- Logistics
- Aerospace
- Government services.
4. What role do research institutions play in Abu Dhabi’s AI strategy?
Institutions turn innovations into real-world solutions, like the
- Technology Innovation Institute
- Advanced Technology Research Council
5. What’s next for Abu Dhabi’s AI industry?
Under the 2025–2028 roadmap, Abu Dhabi will build global partnerships. It will lead to AI policy. It will expand AI use across different sectors. The aim is to keep its competitive edge.
