Microsoft has unveiled a new regional framework that will direct more than $10 billion in capital and operating expenditure toward the Middle East through 2030, as countries across the region accelerate investments in artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital infrastructure.
The framework was announced by Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith and Microsoft Middle East and Africa President Naim Yazbeck during a roundtable held alongside the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Senior government officials from Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates attended the meeting.
Microsoft said the initiative is built around three key areas: technology, digital resilience and people. The company plans to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure while helping governments strengthen cybersecurity, protect critical digital services and develop the skills needed for an AI-driven economy.
“Microsoft’s economic ties to the Middle East run deep, and our commitment to the region has always been, and will remain, steadfast,” Brad Smith said. He added that the region has an opportunity to play a leading role as AI reshapes economies and that investment in digital resilience, security and continuity will be essential to turning AI ambitions into long-term economic and societal benefits.
Yazbeck said Microsoft has supported the region’s digital transformation for more than 35 years and intends to remain a long-term technology partner as national AI strategies and development programmes progress.
Expanding Cloud and AI Infrastructure
Under the technology pillar, Microsoft plans to expand cloud and AI infrastructure across Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The company will also strengthen cooperation with national AI organisations, including HUMAIN, G42, QAI and the Government of Kuwait. Additional digital government initiatives include the UAE’s TAMM platform, Saudi Arabia’s SDAIA ALLaM, Qatar’s TASMU programme and the adoption of Microsoft 365 Copilot within Kuwait’s government.
Connectivity is another major part of the investment programme. Microsoft said it plans to invest more than $400 million in subsea and terrestrial connectivity across the Middle East by 2030.
The investment will build on existing infrastructure commitments, including the SeaMeWe-6 subsea cable system, which has landing points in Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Focus on Digital Resilience and Cybersecurity
Microsoft’s digital resilience programme will provide organisations with resilience assessments, reference architectures, readiness guidance and enablement programmes.
The company also plans to expand its work around data protection, data sovereignty and business continuity through offerings such as Microsoft Sovereign Public Cloud, Sovereign Private Cloud and Project Digital Shield.
Cybersecurity cooperation with national authorities in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE will also be strengthened as governments increasingly depend on digital infrastructure for essential services.
Microsoft said it will continue collaborating with the Responsible AI Future Foundation, established with G42 and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, to promote responsible AI practices and develop evaluation tools for organisations across the region.
Developing AI Skills Across the Region
The people pillar focuses on workforce development and AI skills. Microsoft said it is building on its existing commitment to help more than 4.2 million people across Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE develop relevant skills by 2030.
Planned programmes will cover AI skills, workforce readiness and public-sector capabilities. Examples include Saudi Arabia’s AI Global Leadership Program, AI Skills 4 Women programmes in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and the Women’s Datacenter Academy in Saudi Arabia.
Microsoft will also collaborate with governments, educators, academic institutions and other partners to prepare students and educators for increased use of AI.
The education initiatives will cover AI literacy, educator training and responsible AI practices across primary, secondary and higher education.
At the workforce level, Microsoft plans to work with governments, employers, workers and education providers to support practical skills development, leadership training and adaptation to changing workplace requirements.
Supporting National Digital Strategies
Microsoft said the new framework is designed to complement the national development and AI strategies of countries across the Middle East.
By combining investments in cloud and AI infrastructure with cybersecurity, digital resilience, connectivity, skills development and local partnerships, the company aims to support digital transformation, public-sector services and economic opportunities across the region through 2030.
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