Microsoft has announced the expansion of its Global Engineering Development Center (GEDC) to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This new center marks Microsoft's first engineering facility in the Arab region, joining the ranks of its global development centers in key strategic locations worldwide.
The Abu Dhabi Engineering Center will be part of a global network focused on AI innovation, cloud technologies, and advanced cybersecurity solutions. The engineering team at this center will develop cutting-edge technologies to be incorporated into Microsoft’s global solutions.
This announcement is the latest in a series of investments by Microsoft to reinforce UAE’s position as a hub for technological innovation and talent. The strategic partnership between Microsoft and G42 has played a significant role in fostering the growth of the regional tech ecosystem. The new engineering development center will build on this foundation, creating advanced technologies and attracting top global tech talent to develop customized solutions for key industry challenges.
Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council stated that Abu Dhabi is well-positioned to lead global efforts in AI, driving solutions that bring positive change for humanity and the planet. He emphasized that Abu Dhabi’s advanced digital and physical infrastructure, along with UAE's strategic location, will have a broad and positive impact across industries and society.
Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella highlighted that Microsoft is committed to ensuring transformative technologies like AI benefit everyone and create opportunities in communities. The Abu Dhabi Engineering Development Center will attract new talent to the region, fostering innovation that drives economic growth and job creation in the UAE and globally.
G42 CEO Peng Xiao noted that establishing the Microsoft engineering development center in Abu Dhabi underscores the UAE’s growing status as a hub of technological innovation. He mentioned the past collaborations between G42 and Microsoft in AI and cloud infrastructure and how this new center will enhance joint efforts to build a stronger digital future.
Samer Abu-Ltaif, Microsoft's Corporate Vice President for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, stated that this announcement reaffirms Microsoft’s commitment to the Arab region and strengthens its strategic partnership with the UAE. Microsoft aims to maximize the region’s potential and shift from merely consuming technology to contributing to global tech development by supporting youth, collaborating with academia, and fostering intellectual property creation.
The Abu Dhabi Engineering Development Center represents a critical effort in nurturing regional talent for Microsoft. Collaborating with local universities, educational centers, and government organizations, Microsoft aims to enhance cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity skills, aligning with regional efforts towards diversification and a knowledge-based economy.
Microsoft aims to deliver innovative solutions that meet customers' evolving needs through AI-based platforms and tools. As a tech company, Microsoft aims to make AI widely accessible and responsibly used to help people achieve more remarkable outcomes globally.
