Microsoft Expands Global Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi

Microsoft Corporation has announced plans to expand its Global Engineering Development Center by establishing a new facility in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This will mark one of the first engineering centers the company is launching in the Arab world, adding to its global network of development centers located in strategic regions across the globe. The new Abu Dhabi center will contribute to the creation of AI innovations, cloud technologies, and advanced cybersecurity solutions that will be integrated into Microsoft’s global solutions portfolio.

Strengthening UAE's Position as a Global Tech Hub

This expansion is part of a broader set of investments by Microsoft, further solidifying the UAE’s standing as a leading global hub for technological innovation and talent. A key aspect of this success is Microsoft’s strategic partnership with G42, which has helped foster a vibrant local tech ecosystem. The new center in Abu Dhabi will not only focus on developing cutting-edge technologies but also attract top talent from around the world, offering solutions that address critical challenges in industries worldwide.

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, said, “As a hub of innovation, Abu Dhabi is well-positioned to lead global efforts in AI, championing transformative solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Abu Dhabi’s advanced digital and physical infrastructure, combined with the UAE’s strategic location at the heart of the world, allows us to drive positive, far-reaching impacts across industries and societies alike.”

Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO, Microsoft, said, “We are committed to ensuring transformative technologies, like AI, benefit everyone broadly and create local opportunity. Our Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi will bring new talent to the region and help power innovation that will drive economic growth and job creation for both the UAE and the world.”

Peng Xiao, Group CEO, G42, said, “The establishment of Microsoft’s Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi underscores the growing importance of the UAE as a hub for technological innovation. While G42 and Microsoft have worked together in the past to drive advancements in AI and cloud infrastructure, this new centre will complement our collective efforts in building a more robust digital future for the region and beyond.”

Samer Abu-Ltaif, Microsoft Corporate Vice President and President, Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, said, “Today’s announcement reinforces our commitment to the region and our strategic partnership with the UAE. By empowering youth, collaborating with academia and fostering IP creation, we are unlocking the region’s potential. We are transitioning from consuming technology to contributing to its global creation. With a world-class Engineering Development Centre in Abu Dhabi, we drive innovation and support organizations worldwide to stay competitive in a digital world.”

Advancing Workforce Development in the Region

The new Engineering Development Center will also play a significant role in advancing Microsoft's regional workforce development initiatives. The center will support the upskilling of both existing professionals and emerging talent, enabling them to leverage the latest advancements in technology. This will be achieved through collaborations with local universities, training institutions, and government initiatives, with a particular emphasis on cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity. These efforts align with the UAE’s goal to diversify its economy and transition into a knowledge-based society, ensuring professionals are well-equipped for tech-driven sectors.

Microsoft's Global Mission and Commitment to AI

As a leader in technology, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is dedicated to creating platforms and tools that harness the power of AI to deliver innovative solutions. The company is committed to making AI widely accessible while promoting its responsible use. With a mission to empower every person and organization on the planet, Microsoft aims to help individuals and businesses achieve more in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.