Microsoft unveils huge spending expansion in Middle East, with new multi-billion dollar sums going to Gulf States
Acknowledging the region's transformation, Microsoft commits $10bn+ to strengthen resilience and local infrastructure.
Microsoft has announced a massive $10 billion investment plan for the Middle East over the next decade, with a focus on expanding technological capabilities in the region. The company aims to bolster cloud and AI infrastructure, improve digital resilience, enhance cybersecurity, and support educational programs.
A significant portion of the investment, $400 million, will be allocated to expanding subsea and terrestrial cable networks, which currently connect key Middle Eastern hubs such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Microsoft's President Brad Smith emphasized the region's ongoing digital transformation, acknowledging the ongoing challenges posed by geopolitical conflicts.
The investment plan also includes a commitment to upskill more than 4.2 million individuals across the Middle East by 2030. While this represents around 8% of the total population in the four targeted countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait), it is a more substantial percentage when considering only the working-age population. Smith described Microsoft's role as providing the necessary digital resilience, security, and continuity to support the region's ongoing technological advancements.
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