Microsoft expands global engineering presence with new center in Abu Dhabi

Microsoft Corp. announced on Tuesday the expansion of its Global Engineering Development Center footprint to the UAE with the establishment of a new center in Abu Dhabi, marking one of the company’s first engineering centers in the Arab world.

This new facility will join Microsoft’s network of global development centers located in strategic locations around the world.

The Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi will become part of a global ecosystem focused on driving innovation in AI, cloud technologies, and advanced cybersecurity solutions. The center’s engineering teams will develop cutting-edge technologies that will be integrated into Microsoft’s global offerings.

This announcement is the latest in a series of strategic investments by Microsoft, further cementing the UAE’s position as a global hub for tech innovation and talent. Microsoft’s collaboration with G42 has played a key role in building a vibrant local tech ecosystem.

The new center will not only create advanced technologies for the region but also attract top tech talent from around the world to develop tailored solutions addressing critical global challenges.

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, expressed, “As a center of innovation, Abu Dhabi is uniquely positioned to lead global efforts in AI, creating transformative solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Our advanced infrastructure and strategic location enable us to drive meaningful impacts across industries and societies.”

Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, said, “We are committed to ensuring that transformative technologies like AI benefit everyone and create local opportunities. Our new Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi will bring fresh talent to the region and foster innovation that supports economic growth and job creation in the UAE and beyond.”

Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, added, “The establishment of Microsoft’s center in Abu Dhabi highlights the UAE’s growing role as a hub for technological innovation. This new center will enhance our joint efforts in advancing a robust digital future for the region and beyond.”

Samer Abu-Ltaif, Microsoft Corporate Vice President and President for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, noted, “Today’s announcement strengthens our commitment to the region and our strategic partnership with the UAE. By empowering youth, collaborating with academia, and fostering innovation, we are shifting from technology consumption to global technology creation. This center in Abu Dhabi will support organizations worldwide in staying competitive in a digital era.”

The center will also contribute to Microsoft’s mission to upskill the regional workforce, collaborating with local universities, training centers, and government initiatives. It will focus on providing the necessary skills in cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity to equip the current and future workforce.

This initiative aligns with the UAE’s ambitions to transition into a knowledge-based economy, and supports local diversification efforts.