In an unprecedented step toward digital innovation, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that it will provide free access to ChatGPT Plus — the premium version of OpenAI’s widely used AI chatbot — to all residents across the country.
This initiative is part of a strategic partnership between the UAE government and OpenAI. The collaboration aims to enhance AI integration at a national scale and includes the development of a large-scale AI infrastructure project known as Stargate UAE, based in Abu Dhabi. Once completed, this AI hub will house a one-gigawatt supercomputing cluster, with 200 megawatts expected to be operational by next year.
The partnership is part of OpenAI’s global strategy, titled “OpenAI for Countries”, which seeks to help nations develop AI systems aligned with their local languages, policies, and societal needs. The initiative emphasizes ethical use, data privacy, and responsible governance of AI technologies.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described the UAE partnership as a “bold vision” designed to harness AI’s potential in sectors like healthcare, education, and sustainable energy. The project also aims to position the UAE as a central player in the global AI ecosystem.
Several international technology giants — including Microsoft, Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, SoftBank, and UAE-based firm G42 — are actively involved in the initiative. Microsoft-backed G42 is a key local partner helping to drive AI development within the country.
One of the most significant aspects of this deal is the free nationwide availability of ChatGPT Plus, allowing millions of UAE residents access to advanced AI capabilities for writing, coding, research, and more — without any subscription cost.
In a further show of commitment, the UAE has pledged to match its AI investments domestically with equivalent investments in the United States. According to Axios, this could amount to as much as $20 billion in combined spending between the two countries.
Looking ahead, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, Jason Kwon, will embark on a tour of Asia-Pacific nations to explore similar collaborative opportunities. As OpenAI expands its global footprint, many eyes are now on India, which is rapidly advancing its own AI strategy and could potentially follow the UAE’s lead.
