G42, an artificial intelligence firm based in the United Arab Emirates, has announced a collaboration with U.S. chip manufacturer Nvidia to advance climate technology, as stated on Friday. This partnership comes just ahead of the historic visit by the UAE president to the White House next week.
According to a statement from the Gulf-based company, the collaboration will focus on developing AI solutions to enhance global weather forecasting accuracy, alongside establishing a climate tech laboratory and operational base in Abu Dhabi.
The UAE, under the leadership of the government-supported G42, is making significant investments in AI to diversify its economy beyond oil. Recently, UAE companies have formed multiple partnerships with U.S. firms.
In April, Microsoft revealed a $1.5 billion investment in G42, and this week, both companies announced plans to open two new centers in Abu Dhabi.
Additionally, Abu Dhabi's MGX investment company is joining forces as a general partner in a $30 billion fund with BlackRock and Microsoft, aimed at investing in AI infrastructure.
However, there are growing concerns in Washington regarding the potential for advanced U.S. AI technology to reach China through the UAE and other Middle Eastern nations. Last year, the U.S. implemented new restrictions on AI chip exports, requiring licenses for shipments to these regions.
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is set to visit Washington on Monday, where he will meet with U.S. President Joe Biden to discuss regional security in the Middle East, as well as advancements in technology and AI development, according to the White House.
He is also expected to engage with Vice President Kamala Harris and various business leaders. Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, informed journalists during a briefing on Thursday that the primary focus of the visit will be on economic collaboration and cooperation in areas such as AI.
Gargash stated that while individuals may discuss certain tensions within the relationship, the overarching narrative is that this remains our most crucial strategic partnership