Strategic Agreement Marks a Major Tech Partnership
The United Arab Emirates and France have confirmed a new framework agreement to build a 1 gigawatt AI focused data centre. The announcement was made during high level discussions between leaders of both countries, highlighting a shared commitment to strengthening global AI capabilities. The agreement also reflects a broader plan to collaborate on advanced technologies, digital infrastructure and long term innovation programs.
A Multi Billion Euro Investment in AI Infrastructure
According to official statements, the planned development is expected to involve an investment estimated between 30 and 50 billion euros. The project aims to support large scale AI workloads and provide the computing capacity required for training complex models. Along with the data centre, the partnership includes cooperation on semiconductor chips, AI talent development and policies around secure digital storage environments often referred to as virtual data embassies.
Location and Development Scope
The data centre will be built in France although the final site has not yet been publicly confirmed. Once completed, the 1 gigawatt facility will be one of the largest AI oriented data centre in Europe. The scale of the project is designed to meet the rising demand for high performance computing capacity that is essential for modern AI systems. It is expected to serve as a key pillar for future European AI initiatives while also offering pathways for joint research and development.
Strengthening AI Competitiveness and Digital Sovereignty
The announcement signals a step forward in strengthening AI competitiveness for both nations. For France and the wider European region, the project supports ambitions to expand sovereign AI infrastructure without excessive dependence on external cloud providers. For the UAE, the investment aligns with its ongoing strategy to position itself as a global technology and AI leader through long term partnerships and large scale innovation funding.
What Remains Unconfirmed
Several areas are still awaiting further detail including the construction timeline, operational framework, technical partners and how the computing capacity will be allocated across different AI projects. Public updates are expected as the joint task forces progress with planning.
Despite these pending details, the agreement represents one of the most significant AI infrastructure commitments announced in recent years and sets the stage for a new chapter of cooperation between the UAE and France.
