The UAE is set to become the first country worldwide to offer free access to ChatGPT Plus for all its residents, thanks to a landmark partnership with OpenAI. This collaboration includes building a massive AI data center called Stargate UAE in Abu Dhabi, which will be one of the largest AI computing clusters globally. The facility is planned to deliver around one gigawatt of power, with the initial 200-megawatt phase expected to be operational next year.
Stargate UAE is part of OpenAI’s “OpenAI for Countries” initiative, designed to help nations build their own AI infrastructures and tools while maintaining close ties with the U.S. government. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described the partnership as “a bold vision” aimed at extending AI’s transformative benefits—such as enhanced healthcare, modern education, and cleaner energy—to new regions.
The project brings together major tech and investment players, including Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, SoftBank, and G42 (a Middle East-based AI company backed by Microsoft), aiming to position the UAE as a regional AI hub.
Offering ChatGPT Plus free to the entire population means millions in the UAE will gain access to the premium tier of OpenAI’s AI tools, widely used for writing assistance, coding, study help, planning, and more, removing financial barriers to advanced AI capabilities.
Beyond infrastructure, the initiative seeks to tailor AI systems to local languages, regulations, and cultural contexts—protecting data privacy and ensuring ethical AI use. The UAE also plans to match its domestic AI investments with an equal amount committed to AI projects in the U.S., potentially totaling $20 billion between the two countries.
OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, Jason Kwon, is set to travel across Asia Pacific to explore similar partnerships, signaling the UAE deal could be a template for more countries to develop localized AI ecosystems in collaboration with OpenAI.
