UAE positions sovereign AI as global export strategy
computerweekly.com Oct 7, 2026

UAE positions sovereign AI as global export strategy

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

At AI Everything Abu Dhabi, UAE executives reframed sovereign artificial intelligence (AI) as a platform for global collaboration rather than isolation. Talal Al Kaissi, CEO of Core42, argued that sovereignty is fundamentally about control over data and risk appetite, not merely domestic tech development. He highlighted the UAE’s “visionary” regulatory framework that balances permissive innovation with oversight, enabling rapid growth of sovereign cloud and AI infrastructure at firms like G42 and Core42. Al Kaissi noted that while sovereign AI has traditionally served governments and regulated sectors, demand is expanding to large enterprises seeking tighter data governance. The discussion underscored the challenge of defining the boundaries of sovereignty when most AI services are supplied by a handful of global cloud providers.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · The UAE’s model shows how a tailored regulatory environment can turn data‑centric security concerns into a exportable AI service, positioning the country as a hub for nations and corporations seeking trusted cross‑border AI capabilities.