As expected, OpenAI is expanding its ambitious Stargate data center project to the Middle East. The company announced the launch of Stargate UAE, a 1GW data center cluster in Abu Dhabi.
The first 200 MW of capacity is expected to be operational by 2026, implemented in collaboration with partners including G42, Oracle, NVIDIA, Cisco, and SoftBank.
In a blog post, OpenAI notes that Stargate UAE has the potential to provide AI infrastructure and computing resources within a radius of up to 2,000 miles (approximately 3,219 kilometers).
"This is also the first partnership under OpenAI for Countries, our new global initiative to help interested governments build sovereign AI capability in coordination with the U.S. government," the company said in a statement.
As part of this partnership, the UAE will become the first country in the world to provide national access to ChatGPT, allowing people across the country to use OpenAI’s technologies.
Recall that OpenAI also recently announced that it is acquiring the secret startup of legendary Apple designer Jony Ive and is preparing to release its first AI device in 2026. It will be a small gadget without a screen that will be able to recognize the user's surroundings.