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Microsoft Pledges More Than $10 Billion for Gulf Cloud and AI Expansion

Fast Company Middle EastSep 25, 2026

Microsoft has announced plans to invest more than $10 billion in cloud and AI infrastructure across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait through 2030, according to Fast Company Middle East. The company said the figure covers both capital and operating spending on its regional cloud and AI operations.

Connectivity Investment Included

Alongside the broader commitment, Microsoft said it would put more than $400 million into subsea and terrestrial connectivity infrastructure in the Middle East by 2030, part of the same push to expand its regional footprint.

Regional Partnerships

The spending builds on Microsoft's existing regional ties, including its $1.5 billion minority investment in Abu Dhabi's G42 made in 2024; Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith sits on G42's board. Microsoft is also collaborating with Saudi Arabia's Humain and Qatar's Qai on selected priority areas, though the company said no direct capital investment is planned for those partnerships. Microsoft did not break out country-by-country spending figures, citing security concerns.

"Aggressive" Timeline

Smith described the investment schedule as "aggressive," saying: "We're sustaining all the investments we planned to make before this conflict started, and we are in fact adding to them."