Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and IBM have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI). The agreement, signed at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025, aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy over the next decade and position it among the top three global cities. Additionally, the partnership supports the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, which seeks to accelerate AI adoption and integration in key sectors.
PC: Dubai Media Office
The MoU was signed in the presence of Omar Sultan AlOlama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, Vice-Chair of the World Governments Summit, and Deputy Managing Director of Dubai Future Foundation; Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO of IBM; Saad Toma, General Manager of IBM Middle East and Africa; and Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of DFF.
AlOlama emphasized that the UAE is committed to fostering collaboration between the government and private sectors to create an innovative model for AI development, adoption, and application. He highlighted the significance of purposeful partnerships in driving progress and innovation. Krishna expressed IBM’s enthusiasm for working with DFF to promote economic growth and technological advancement. He reiterated the company’s commitment to positioning Dubai as a global leader in innovation and responsible AI use.
The partnership will focus on establishing a sovereign cloud and AI innovation center in Dubai to support technological development and market expansion. IBM will also participate in the inaugural Dubai AI Week, scheduled for April 21-25, where it will host workshops, masterclasses, and expert sessions. Additionally, DFF and IBM will collaborate on publishing joint white papers during the event.
Toma expressed IBM’s pride in collaborating with DFF, emphasizing that their combined expertise would accelerate AI innovation and create real-world solutions that empower businesses while enhancing various aspects of life in Dubai and beyond. As part of the collaboration, IBM will conduct Tech Talks at DFF, mentor startups, and provide AI tools and advisory services.
Belhoul highlighted that partnering with IBM reflects DFF’s commitment to advancing the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). He reiterated that the collaboration underscores Dubai’s dedication to accelerating AI adoption across key sectors, inspired by the leadership’s vision to establish the city as the most future-ready in the world.
