emirates7 - Abu Dhabi’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector is experiencing rapid expansion, solidifying its position as a leading global hub for AI innovation and development.
Figures from the Abu Dhabi Chamber that the emirate is now home to 673 AI companies — a 61% surge between June 2023 and June 2024. In comparison to the global tally of around 90,904 AI companies in 2024, Abu Dhabi represents a significant concentration within the worldwide AI landscape.
The data underscores the emirate’s emergence as the fastest-growing AI hub in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, as well as a global frontrunner in AI-driven business, research, and innovation. This growth is supported by a strong institutional framework, including the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC), tasked with shaping AI and advanced technology policies and strategies, the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), AI71, Hub71, G42, and Space42 GIQ.
More than 58% of Abu Dhabi’s AI firms specialise in innovation, research, and consultancy, reflecting a highly developed, knowledge-driven business environment. In just the first half of 2025 (January–June), 150 new AI companies were launched, fuelled by strategic investments, robust infrastructure, and growing cross-sector demand.
Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted that the sector is moving beyond early adoption into real-world application, with an increasing focus on research, strategic consultancy, and enterprise-level solutions. He stressed that the growth reflects not only rising numbers but also the diversity and dynamism of entrepreneurs, scientists, and global leaders drawn to Abu Dhabi’s thriving tech ecosystem.
According to Al Dhaheri, what sets Abu Dhabi apart is the close cooperation between government, industry, established global players, and emerging innovators, alongside strong ties between research and commerce. The Chamber, he noted, is committed to strengthening these links and embedding innovation as a standard practice.
Central to this progress is the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s newly launched 2025–2028 strategic roadmap, which prioritises ease of doing business, policy advocacy, and ecosystem connectivity. The creation of an Advocacy Working Group on Artificial Intelligence and Technology, uniting sector leaders to shape the future of AI in the emirate, further cements Abu Dhabi’s competitive edge as a global centre for innovation and enterprise.
Figures from the Abu Dhabi Chamber that the emirate is now home to 673 AI companies — a 61% surge between June 2023 and June 2024. In comparison to the global tally of around 90,904 AI companies in 2024, Abu Dhabi represents a significant concentration within the worldwide AI landscape.
The data underscores the emirate’s emergence as the fastest-growing AI hub in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, as well as a global frontrunner in AI-driven business, research, and innovation. This growth is supported by a strong institutional framework, including the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC), tasked with shaping AI and advanced technology policies and strategies, the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), AI71, Hub71, G42, and Space42 GIQ.
More than 58% of Abu Dhabi’s AI firms specialise in innovation, research, and consultancy, reflecting a highly developed, knowledge-driven business environment. In just the first half of 2025 (January–June), 150 new AI companies were launched, fuelled by strategic investments, robust infrastructure, and growing cross-sector demand.
Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted that the sector is moving beyond early adoption into real-world application, with an increasing focus on research, strategic consultancy, and enterprise-level solutions. He stressed that the growth reflects not only rising numbers but also the diversity and dynamism of entrepreneurs, scientists, and global leaders drawn to Abu Dhabi’s thriving tech ecosystem.
According to Al Dhaheri, what sets Abu Dhabi apart is the close cooperation between government, industry, established global players, and emerging innovators, alongside strong ties between research and commerce. The Chamber, he noted, is committed to strengthening these links and embedding innovation as a standard practice.
Central to this progress is the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s newly launched 2025–2028 strategic roadmap, which prioritises ease of doing business, policy advocacy, and ecosystem connectivity. The creation of an Advocacy Working Group on Artificial Intelligence and Technology, uniting sector leaders to shape the future of AI in the emirate, further cements Abu Dhabi’s competitive edge as a global centre for innovation and enterprise.