Microsoft plans $10 billion-plus Gulf investment with focus on resilience

Microsoft plans to invest over $10 billion across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait until 2030, with a focus on cloud and AI infrastructure, according to a senior executive. The investment highlights Microsoft's digital resilience strategy for the region amid ongoing tensions. Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President, revealed the significant investment as Gulf countries aim to become global hubs by diversifying away from oil and gas.

Challenges include limited access to advanced chips and the ongoing conflict's uncertainties, such as attacks on data centers. Microsoft intends to maintain its pre-conflict investments while adding new ones, emphasizing its commitment to supporting local partners in developing digital resilience. The company plans to invest over $400 million in subsea and terrestrial connectivity by 2030 and strengthen its partnership with local AI firms like G42 in Abu Dhabi.