Cisco, a global leader in networking and security, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to join the Stargate UAE consortium as a preferred technology partner. This strategic agreement, signed by Cisco’s Chair and Chief Executive Officer Chuck Robbins along with other consortium members including G42, OpenAI, Oracle, NVIDIA, and SoftBank Group, aims to construct an AI data center in Abu Dhabi with a targeted capacity of 1 gigawatt (GW). The initial phase of this project will deliver a capacity of 200 megawatts (MW) by 2026.

In its role as a partner, Cisco will offer advanced networking, security, and observability solutions to hasten the establishment of next-generation AI compute clusters. Robbins emphasized the importance of having the right infrastructure, stating, “With the right infrastructure in place, AI can transform data into insights that empower every organization to innovate faster, tackle complex challenges, and deliver tangible outcomes.” He expressed pride in joining the consortium to harness AI’s potential and provide the necessary infrastructure for future breakthroughs.

This announcement comes on the heels of Robbins’ recent visit to Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, during which Cisco unveiled a series of strategic initiatives aimed at facilitating AI transformation across the region. These initiatives utilize Cisco’s trusted technology to bolster the AI infrastructure, leveraging the company’s extensive expertise in networking and security, combined with established regional partnerships. Cisco’s efforts are focused on developing secure, AI-powered digital infrastructure and collaborating with key partners to deliver world-class technology to the area.