JOHANNESBURG, South Africa: The United Arab Emirates is stepping up its global AI ambitions with a new US$1 billion plan to help expand artificial intelligence infrastructure and services across Africa, a move it says is aimed at supporting national development priorities on the continent.

The "AI for development initiative" was unveiled on November 22 at the G20 leaders' summit in Johannesburg by UAE Minister of State Saeed Bin Mubarak Al Hajeri. The program will focus on applying AI tools to sectors such as education, healthcare, and climate adaptation, areas where many African nations are seeking rapid modernization.

"We consider AI not just as a future industry but a cornerstone of humanity's future," Al Hajeri said in a statement.

"Therefore, my country is actively accelerating innovation to enhance productivity and drive significant advancements in the global economy, with a strong commitment to developing responsible and inclusive AI for the benefit of everyone."

The UAE has become one of Africa's most active investors. Bilateral trade reached about $107 billion in 2024, up 28 percent from the previous year, while total UAE investment on the continent exceeded $118 billion between 2020 and 2024, according to the statement.

Abu Dhabi is also investing in its own AI ecosystem. The country is partnering with U.S. tech firms to build one of the world's largest data-centre hubs, part of its strategy to position itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence.

Although the UAE is not a member of the Group of 20, President Cyril Ramaphosa invited the Gulf state to attend the Johannesburg summit, the first G20 gathering to be held on African soil.