Abu Dhabi’s AI Sector Grows 61%, Leading MENA Innovation
Abu Dhabi’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector is expanding at an unprecedented pace, strengthening its role as a global centre for innovation, enterprise, and research. Newly released figures from the Abu Dhabi Chamber reveal that the emirate is now home to 673 AI companies, marking a 61% increase between June 2023 and June 2024.
This surge positions Abu Dhabi as the fastest-growing AI hub in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and a major player in the global AI market, which currently has about 90,904 companies worldwide.
Rapid Growth and Strong Research Focus
In just the first half of 2025, 150 new AI firms launched in the emirate, driven by strategic investments, advanced infrastructure, and rising cross-sector demand. Over 58% of these companies are dedicated to innovation, research, and consultancy, reflecting a highly knowledge-driven ecosystem.
Collaboration between government entities, industry leaders, and global technology players has been central to this growth. Key organisations supporting the sector include the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC), Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), Technology Innovation Institute (TII), AI71, Hub71, G42, and Space42.
Strategic Plans for Future Expansion
The Abu Dhabi Chamber is steering this momentum with its 2025–2028 strategic roadmap, focusing on ease of doing business, policy advocacy, and ecosystem connectivity. Additionally, an Advocacy Working Group on Artificial Intelligence and Technology is uniting industry stakeholders to guide the sector’s next phase and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s competitive advantage in the global AI landscape.
