Following their decision to become strategic partners earlier this year, Abu Dhabi-based G42 and Microsoft, the global technology company, made their first major announcement with a plan to offer sovereign cloud, deliver advanced AI capabilities, and expand the existing data centre in the UAE.
Microsoft’s sovereign cloud offering will allow UAE public sector and regulated industries to use new platform capabilities for securing sensitive data, providing access to the latest cloud and AI features available on Azure public cloud and helping them comply with local privacy and regulatory requirements.
G42’s deep understanding of UAE sovereignty requirements and technical capabilities are central to customising the offering to help address specific needs of customers.
By combining their expertise and existing capabilities, the companies will also focus on bringing cutting-edge, AI-enabled industry-specific solutions for health and life sciences, energy, sustainability and projects of national significance, like the COP28 conference being held in Dubai this year.
The partnership will also see Microsoft expanding its Azure services footprint in the UAE via Khazna Data Centers, a joint venture company between G42 and e& (formerly Etisalat).
Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government & Director of The National Data Centre, praised the partnership between Microsoft and G42 stating that it will further contribute to creating a safer and more resilient digital environment that the public sector and regulated industries can utilise to enhance efficiency, as well as enable citizens to access services seamlessly.
Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, described the joint sovereign cloud and AI offering as a significant step forward for his company.
“This strategic collaboration with Microsoft isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating a holistic ecosystem for societal resilience and growth. By combining our respective expertise and shared forward-thinking approach, we aim to not only transform industries but also create positive economic opportunities and lasting impacts on the well-being of individuals and the society,” Xiao added.
Noting that organisations all over the world are turning to advancements in generative AI technology to imagine new ways to solve business, societal, and sustainability challenges, Judson Althoff, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Microsoft, said: “Microsoft’s partnership with G42 will empower customers across the public sector with next-generation AI solutions built on the most trusted, comprehensive, and integrated cloud platform.
“With data privacy, security, and compliance as our core priorities, we have a unique opportunity to help organisations responsibly innovate for the benefit of citizens and residents across the UAE.”
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