Abu Dhabi’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector has surged by an impressive 61 percent from June 2023 to June 2024, stated the latest data from the Abu Dhabi Chamber.
This rapid expansion positions the emirate as the fastest-growing AI center in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The data reflect Abu Dhabi’s increasing role as a global leader in AI-driven innovation, research, and enterprise, with significant advancements across various sectors.
The emirate now hosts 673 AI companies, underscoring its emergence as a leading global hub for AI innovation. With a global total of 90,904 AI companies, Abu Dhabi’s growth places it at the forefront of the global AI landscape.
The city’s commitment to AI is supported by key institutions such as the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC), the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Hub71, and G42, among others. These organizations are pivotal in developing policies, strategies, and infrastructure to foster AI growth.
Over 58 percent of AI companies in Abu Dhabi are focused on innovation, research, and consultancy, demonstrating the emirate’s advanced, research-driven business environment. The sector has also seen substantial investments, driving the launch of 150 new AI companies between January and June 2025 alone. This is attributed to the emirate’s robust infrastructure and growing demand for AI across various industries.
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Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the transformative nature of the AI sector in the emirate. Abu Dhabi’s artificial intelligence sector is rapidly evolving from early adoption to real-world transformation, with a growing share of activity rooted in research, strategic consultancy, and enterprise-level solutions.
Al Dhaheri highlighted that what sets the ecosystem apart is the strong collaboration between government and business, global leaders and emerging innovators, as well as research and industry.
Abu Dhabi’s AI sector is not only gaining momentum but is poised to become a key player in the global technology landscape. The ongoing growth is further supported by the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s strategic roadmap for 2025-2028, which focuses on easing business operations, policy advocacy, and ecosystem connectivity.
A dedicated Advocacy Working Group on Artificial Intelligence and Technology has been established to shape the future of AI in the emirate, solidifying it’s competitive edge as a center for AI-driven enterprise and innovation.
