The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), through the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), has partnered with the South African Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA) to launch a dedicated AI trade and investment hub. This collaboration aims to foster cross-border collaboration and open new opportunities for AI startups and investors across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
The hub is designed to address barriers related to market access and capital, positioning itself as a catalyst for innovation exchange and responsible AI development in emerging markets. Regional partners, including those from Europe, support the initiative, with DCAI acting as the Middle East launch partner.
Saeed Al Falasi, Director of DCAI, emphasized that the partnership would enable the free flow of ideas, talent, and capital across borders, helping to shape a more inclusive future for AI. Dubai’s role as a global crossroads of trade, capital, and talent makes it an ideal base for exporting bold ideas globally.
Dr. Nick Bradshaw, Founder and Chairman of SAAIA, noted that while AI investment is growing in Europe and the Middle East, Africa’s innovation potential remains underrepresented. The partnership aims to bridge this gap by providing African startups with greater access to global markets, capital, and networks.
Recent success stories, such as the $628 million acquisition of Tunisian AI startup InstaDeep, highlight Africa’s untapped AI potential. The new hub will focus on matching startups with investors, supporting business expansion, and amplifying the voices of emerging AI ecosystems.
