OpenAI is working with Abu Dhabi-based artificial intelligence company G42 to develop a customised version of ChatGPT tailored specifically for the United Arab Emirates, marking one of the first country-specific deployments of the widely used AI platform.
The localized system is expected to support Arabic language usage, including regional dialects, while aligning with local regulatory frameworks, cultural considerations, and content moderation requirements. The customised deployment is primarily intended for government use, reflecting a broader trend toward region-specific AI systems designed to meet national policy and operational needs.
The initiative highlights growing collaboration between OpenAI and the UAE’s AI ecosystem, particularly G42, as the country continues to invest heavily in AI infrastructure and sovereign computing capabilities. This includes the Stargate UAE project, a planned one-gigawatt AI supercomputing cluster in Abu Dhabi, with its first phase expected to become operational in 2026.
The partnership follows increased institutional and investment ties between the two organisations, including investment activity linked to G42 and ongoing collaboration with global technology partners across AI and cloud infrastructure development.
Alongside its work in the UAE, G42 is also expanding internationally, including plans to invest in AI and cloud infrastructure projects in Vietnam aimed at supporting national digital transformation and data sovereignty objectives.
