In a groundbreaking move to shape the future of artificial intelligence, the UAE and France have joined forces to build a 1-gigawatt (1-GW) AI data center in France—set to be the largest AI campus in Europe.
The partnership was announced during UAE President Sheikh Mohamed’s state visit to Paris, where he and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a far-reaching agreement to establish a strategic AI collaboration between the two nations. 
Key Highlights of the UAE-France AI Deal
- Investment Size:
The AI campus project is estimated to attract investments ranging from €30 billion to €50 billion. These funds will be used to power infrastructure, AI research, and digital sovereignty initiatives. - Core Focus Areas:
The multi-billion-euro collaboration includes:- Procurement of advanced AI chips
- Construction of next-generation data centers
- Talent and research development
- Creation of virtual data embassies for sovereign cloud solutions
- Location & Rollout:
The data center will be built in France. The French government has already earmarked 35 potential sites. The first wave of investments will be announced at the Choose France summit later this year. - Strategic Significance:
This mega-tech project strengthens the UAE-France diplomatic and economic partnership while also positioning both countries as global AI frontrunners. It reflects a shared commitment to shaping a responsible, high-impact AI ecosystem.
Global Context: AI at the Forefront
The timing of the deal coincides with a high-level AI conference in Paris (February 10–11), where thousands of global experts are gathering to discuss the future of AI amid rising concerns around privacy, ethics, and governance.
The summit is viewed as Europe’s strategic response to the US and China, who currently dominate the AI race. With this project, France and the UAE are looking to put themselves at the center of the next digital revolution.
