Microsoft has signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Government of Kuwait, represented by the Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT) and the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA), to support the country’s Vision 2035 digital transformation efforts. The collaboration will establish an AI-powered Azure Region in Kuwait to advance local AI capabilities, stimulate economic growth, and foster innovation across various industries.
The new Azure Region is designed to meet the growing demand for high-performance computing and provide scalable, reliable cloud services that will accelerate digital transformation. It will also enhance intelligent cloud adoption for businesses, customers, and partners across Kuwait. This initiative is expected to position Kuwait as a regional leader in AI technology.
By offering state-of-the-art infrastructure, the AI-powered Azure Region will attract global businesses and researchers, while supporting the development of technology startups. It will also encourage collaboration among global researchers, universities, and companies, fostering an ecosystem of innovation in AI.
H.E. Minister of State for Communication Affairs, Omar Saud Al-Omar, emphasized that this partnership is aligned with the directives of Kuwait’s leadership to transform the country into a digitally advanced nation. The AI-powered Azure Region aims to address national challenges, promote economic diversification, and enhance public services, preparing the workforce for future demands.
The partnership will also establish a Microsoft Technology Innovation Hub in Kuwait, featuring an AI Innovation Centre to develop solutions for national challenges, and a Cloud Centre of Excellence to guide cloud adoption and implementation. Furthermore, the government will integrate Microsoft 365 Copilot across its operations, enhancing productivity and efficiency through automation and intelligent insights.
Judson Althoff, Executive Vice President at Microsoft, expressed pride in the collaboration, highlighting how the new AI-powered Azure Region will drive economic growth, improve public services, and create value for Kuwait’s citizens. Samer Abu-Ltaif, President of Microsoft EMEA, noted that the long-standing partnership with Kuwait sets a foundation for an integrated and secure future for the nation’s public and private sectors.
Additionally, the partnership will focus on strengthening cybersecurity through the Cybersphere initiative and providing a comprehensive skilling program to equip Kuwait’s workforce with essential skills in AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, ensuring readiness for the future job market.
This partnership marks a significant step in elevating Kuwait’s business environment, fostering innovation, and attracting foreign direct investment, while reinforcing Kuwait’s position as a premier technology hub.
