Qualcomm Joins UAE’s NextGen FDI Programme to Advance 5G, AI, and IoT Technologies
The UAE Ministry of Economy has announced that Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a global leader in advanced wireless technology, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor innovation, has officially joined the country’s NextGen FDI initiative. This move is set to accelerate the nation’s digital transformation efforts by leveraging Qualcomm’s expertise in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Launched in 2022, the NextGen FDI programme aims to attract high-tech companies and entrepreneurs to establish and expand their operations in the UAE. With Qualcomm’s participation, the programme gains a significant boost, enhancing the country’s reputation as a hub for technological advancements and fostering collaboration between global tech giants and local enterprises.
Qualcomm’s Growing Presence in the UAE
As part of its involvement in the initiative, Qualcomm has established a presence in Abu Dhabi, where it plans to collaborate with local businesses, research institutions, and startups. The company, originally founded in San Diego, California, has been at the forefront of wireless communication technology, playing a pivotal role in the development of 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. It has also made significant strides in high-performance, low-power computing and AI, which are essential to modern digital ecosystems.
Recently, Qualcomm Technologies entered into a collaboration with UAE-based AI firm G42, integrating its Cloud AI solutions into G42’s Core42 infrastructure. This partnership is expected to strengthen the UAE’s AI capabilities and improve cloud-based AI applications, further positioning the nation as a leader in emerging technologies.
Investment in UAE’s Tech Ecosystem
Beyond establishing a physical presence, Qualcomm is also actively contributing to the UAE’s NextGen FDI programme through its investment arm, Qualcomm Ventures. The venture capital arm focuses on early to growth-stage technology companies operating in critical sectors, including 5G, AI, IoT, automotive technology, and cloud computing. Qualcomm Ventures has a portfolio of over 150 active companies, many of which have successfully scaled globally.
Through the NextGen FDI initiative, Qualcomm Ventures will identify and assess potential investment opportunities in UAE-based startups that demonstrate strong growth potential. The programme will also provide support for Qualcomm Ventures’ portfolio companies that wish to expand their operations in the UAE and the broader Middle East region. By fostering such partnerships, Qualcomm is contributing to the growth of a sustainable, innovation-driven economy in the UAE.
Strengthening the UAE’s Digital Transformation Goals
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, welcomed Qualcomm Technologies into the NextGen FDI programme, recognizing the company’s role in advancing the country’s economic vision. According to Dr. Al Zeyoudi, Qualcomm’s presence in Abu Dhabi is a significant milestone that aligns with the UAE’s ambition to become a global center for technological excellence.
“We met Qualcomm at CES 2025 in Las Vegas and were pleased to learn about their plans for the UAE,” Dr. Al Zeyoudi said. “Qualcomm’s innovations in 5G, AI, and the Internet of Things are already playing a crucial role in our digital transformation journey. We are excited about the potential to extend their impact through the NextGen FDI initiative.”
He further emphasized that the UAE requires the involvement of global technology leaders to develop its 5G and AI capabilities, which will unlock new opportunities for businesses, consumers, and government services. Qualcomm’s deeper integration into the UAE market is expected to enhance the country’s technological ecosystem and position it as a leading destination for digital innovation.
Qualcomm’s Commitment to the UAE
On behalf of Qualcomm Technologies, Akash Palkhiwala, the company’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and the opportunities it presents.
“Qualcomm is proud to be present in Abu Dhabi and to support the NextGen FDI initiative. The latest advancements in 5G, AI, and IoT are key drivers of technology ecosystem growth, and our presence in Abu Dhabi enables us to play an integral role in helping advance the UAE’s digital ambitions,” Palkhiwala stated.
He also highlighted the company’s ongoing collaborations with UAE enterprises to develop innovative local and global technology solutions. “Qualcomm is already working closely with UAE companies. Most recently, Core42 announced the launch of its Inference as a Service, powered by Qualcomm Cloud AI Accelerators and Inference Suite. We look forward to seeing even more collaborations emerge from this partnership,” he added.
The Future of Qualcomm and the UAE’s NextGen FDI Initiative
As the UAE continues to position itself as a technology-driven economy, the addition of Qualcomm to the NextGen FDI programme serves as a testament to the country’s commitment to attracting top-tier global technology firms. The collaboration is expected to fuel the development of cutting-edge digital infrastructure, enhance AI-driven solutions, and accelerate the adoption of next-generation connectivity technologies.
With ongoing investments in 5G networks, AI advancements, and cloud computing solutions, Qualcomm’s involvement will not only support local technology startups and businesses but also contribute to the UAE’s broader economic diversification strategy. The initiative reaffirms the UAE’s position as a preferred destination for international technology firms, reinforcing its status as a global innovation hub in the digital age.
By partnering with leading technology players like Qualcomm, the UAE is paving the way for breakthrough innovations that will benefit businesses, government services, and consumers alike, driving sustained economic growth and technological progress in the region.
