Laura Hyde |
Microsoft and has extended its partnership with technology provider G42 to deliver sovereign cloud offerings and advanced artificial intelligence capabilities to organisations in the public sector and regulated industries in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Microsoft’s sovereign cloud technology will provide organisations with new data security capabilities and access to the latest cloud and AI features in the Microsoft Azure public cloud. G42 will use its understanding of UAE sovereignty requirements to tailor the offering to customers’ specific needs.
In addition, Microsoft and G42 plan to co-innovate to develop AI-enabled solutions customised for specific industries, such as health and life sciences, energy, sustainability and projects of national significance (including the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference).
“This strategic collaboration with Microsoft isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating a holistic ecosystem for societal resilience and growth,” said Peng Xiao, group CEO of G42. “By combining our respective expertise and shared forward-thinking approach, we aim to not only transform industries but also create positive economic opportunities and lasting impacts on the wellbeing of individuals, communities, and society as a whole.”
In addition, Microsoft and G42 aim to deliver new in-country services, extend go-to-market opportunities for partners, and expand Microsoft’s Azure services footprint in the UAE via Khazna Data Centers, a joint venture company between G42 and e&.
“Microsoft’s partnership with G42 will empower customers across the public sector with next-generation AI solutions built on the most trusted, comprehensive, and integrated cloud platform,” said Judson Althoff, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Microsoft. “With data privacy, security, and compliance as our core priorities, we have a unique opportunity to help organisations responsibly innovate for the benefit of citizens and residents across the UAE.”
According to Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, head of cybersecurity for the UAE government, the partnership will contribute to creating a “safer and more resilient digital environment” and enable citizens to access services seamlessly. He said this “will lead to flourishing innovation without compromising security and data privacy, while bolstering the country’s effort to manage cyber risks effectively, ensure continued services to society, support economic growth, and uphold the reputation of the UAE.”