The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), through the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), has partnered with the South African Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA) to establish a groundbreaking AI trade and investment hub. This initiative aims to fast-track collaboration between Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, opening up new opportunities for AI startups and investors.
The hub, backed by various regional partners, is focused on addressing key barriers to market access and capital, positioning itself as a catalyst for trade, innovation, and responsible AI development. DCAI, founded by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and managed by DFF, serves as the Middle East launch partner for the hub. This move is set to unlock new potential in emerging markets, especially those in Africa.
Saeed Al Falasi, Director of DCAI, commented, “AI is reshaping global opportunities, and cross-border collaboration is essential to navigating this transformation. Our partnership is designed to facilitate the free flow of ideas, talent, and capital. By connecting vibrant ecosystems, we are not only supporting startups in emerging markets but also fostering a more inclusive AI future. Dubai’s role as a global hub for trade and talent provides the perfect platform for these ideas to scale.”
Dr. Nick Bradshaw, Founder and Chairman of SAAIA, emphasized, “AI investment is rapidly expanding in Europe and the Middle East, but Africa’s innovation scene remains underrepresented, despite the region housing some of the world’s most dynamic startups. Our partnership with DCAI aims to bridge this gap by providing African startups with better access to global markets, capital, and networks.”
Recent successes like the $628 million acquisition of Tunisian AI startup InstaDeep underscore Africa’s vast AI potential. The new hub is designed to match startups with investors, support business expansion, and elevate emerging AI ecosystems.
Dr. Bradshaw added, “This partnership is more than symbolic; it creates a practical pipeline for AI-driven trade and investment across Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. We’re excited to move forward with Dubai as our key regional partner in this venture.”
