Abu Dhabi Launches Hub71+ AI to Boost AI Startups

Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s renowned global tech ecosystem, has introduced Hub71+ AI, a specialized platform designed to empower startups leveraging AI innovations across industries. Unveiled during Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW), this initiative provides AI startups with cutting-edge infrastructure and resources to thrive in the fast-evolving global economy. This launch reinforces Abu Dhabi’s dedication to advancing AI within its priority sectors, aligning with the UAE capital’s broader economic ambitions.

Abu Dhabi’s Rapid AI Growth

Between 2021 and 2023, Abu Dhabi witnessed remarkable growth in AI-focused enterprises, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 67%. In the first half of 2024 alone, an average of one AI company was founded every two days. Hub71+ AI aims to build on this momentum, offering vital support to startups and developing robust infrastructure to facilitate AI adoption across various industries.

AI71: A Pillar of Hub71+ AI

As an anchor partner of Hub71+ AI, AI71 brings substantial resources to the ecosystem. Startups will benefit from computing power credits for AI71’s API Hub, which provides pay-as-you-go access to the globally recognized Falcon series of Large Language Models and other advanced tools. Furthermore, AI71 offers startups direct access to its team of AI researchers, fostering innovation and development.

Core42: Driving Next-Generation AI Infrastructure

Another key partner, Core42, empowers regional startups with preferential access to its cutting-edge products and solutions. Core42 provides cloud credits to facilitate the deployment of advanced AI infrastructure, including training and inference capabilities across the UAE, USA, and other global markets.

For startups in regulated industries or the public sector, Core42’s Sovereign Public Cloud, powered by Microsoft Azure, offers tailored solutions. Additionally, Core42 integrates startups into the broader G42 ecosystem, granting access to entities such as Presight, M42, AIQ, CPX, and Space42, among others.

Strategic Partnerships Powering Hub71+ AI

Hub71+ AI is bolstered by collaborations with global leaders such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google for Startups, Nvidia, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), and 42 Abu Dhabi. These partnerships aim to provide startups with technical expertise, advanced digital infrastructure, and strategic market access, accelerating their growth and innovation potential.

Benefits for Startups: A Gateway to Growth

Startups joining Hub71+ AI gain access to invaluable resources, including technical mentorship, regulatory guidance, and opportunities to pilot new technologies in real-world settings. Additionally, they connect with a network of investors and corporate partners, enabling them to scale their businesses globally from Abu Dhabi. These resources position startups to capitalize on cloud credits and other digital infrastructure, fostering a stronger AI ecosystem.

Ahmad Ali Alwan, Chief Executive Officer of Hub71, said: “AI is transforming industries and rapidly shaping the future of our world. Abu Dhabi is not just keeping pace but setting the standard as a global leader in advancing AI for meaningful impact. Hub71+ AI is our commitment to bold, pioneering founders, providing startups with unparalleled access to resources, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities with tech giants and national champions. We aim to scale and drive AI innovation that resonates globally from Abu Dhabi’s dynamic tech ecosystem.”

Dr. Mahir Nayfeh, Chief Product Officer at AI71, said: “AI71 is dedicated to bridging the AI divide by putting AI tools in as many people’s hands as possible. A key part of this is our API Hub, which provides pay-as-you-go access to Falcon, the Technology Innovation Institute’s globally ranked series of generative AI models, and other tools. This means developers around the world can innovate using Falcon, regardless of their computing power resources. We’re looking forward to collaborating with Hub71 to help empower the next generation of promising AI startups and developers.”

“At Core42, we are committed to enabling startups to harness the transformative potential of AI through robust and specialized digital infrastructure, as well as bespoke go-to-market mentorship,” said Talal M. Al Kaissi, EVP, Chief Government Affairs & Partnerships Officer, Core42. “Partnering with Hub71+ AI aligns with our mission to scale AI enablement and drive sustainable economic growth in Abu Dhabi. Together, we are setting the stage for startups to expand globally, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global AI hub.”

Hub71+: Shaping Abu Dhabi’s Future Industries

The Hub71+ specialist ecosystems are dedicated to driving innovation within Abu Dhabi’s priority sectors. Leveraging substantial investments, world-class infrastructure, and strategic collaborations, Hub71 is committed to fostering technological advancements that contribute to the emirate’s economic diversification and its vision of future industries.

Call to Action: Join Hub71+ AI

Startups are invited to apply to Hub71+ AI programs to access its comprehensive suite of offerings. By joining this thriving ecosystem, startups can scale their innovations, contribute to Abu Dhabi’s dynamic AI landscape, and expand their global impact.