Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and IBM have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at reinforcing Dubai’s stature as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI). This agreement was formalized during the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 and is in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which targets doubling the size of Dubai’s economy over the next ten years, placing it among the top three global cities. Furthermore, the partnership is designed to support the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, which promotes the swift adoption and integration of AI across various key sectors.

The MoU was signed in the presence of several notable figures, including Omar Sultan AlOlama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, who is also the Vice-Chair of the World Governments Summit and Deputy Managing Director of Dubai Future Foundation. Other key signatories included Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO of IBM; Saad Toma, General Manager of IBM Middle East and Africa; and Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of DFF.

AlOlama highlighted the UAE’s commitment to fostering collaboration between government and private sectors to create an innovative model for AI development, adoption, and application. He pointed out that such strategic partnerships are essential for driving both progress and innovation. Krishna expressed IBM’s eagerness to collaborate with DFF, emphasizing the company’s dedication to enhancing economic growth and technological advancement in Dubai, with a focus on establishing the city as a leader in both innovation and responsible AI usage.

The partnership will prioritize the establishment of a sovereign cloud and an AI innovation center in Dubai, aimed at supporting technological development and market expansion. IBM is also set to take part in the inaugural Dubai AI Week, which will occur from April 21-25, where the company plans to host a variety of workshops, masterclasses, and expert sessions. Additionally, DFF and IBM will work together to publish joint white papers during the event.

Toma expressed pride in the collaboration with DFF, noting that the combined expertise of both organizations is expected to accelerate AI innovation and create practical solutions that empower businesses while enhancing various aspects of life in Dubai and beyond. As part of this initiative, IBM will conduct Tech Talks at DFF, mentor startups, and provide AI tools and advisory services.

Belhoul remarked that the partnership with IBM underscores DFF’s commitment to advancing the ambitious objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). He reiterated that this collaboration reflects Dubai’s dedication to accelerating AI adoption across key sectors, inspired by the leadership’s vision to make the city the most future-ready in the world.