The United Arab Emirates becomes the first country to offer free ChatGPT Plus access to its entire population. This initiative is part of a groundbreaking partnership between the UAE government and OpenAI, which includes the construction of a cutting-edge AI data center in Abu Dhabi, called 'Stargate UAE.' Backed by companies like Oracle, Nvidia, and G42, the project aims to position the UAE as a leading hub for AI in the region.
The UAE has become the first nation to provide free access to ChatGPT Plus, OpenAI’s premium AI assistant, to its entire population. This initiative is part of a broader strategic partnership between the UAE government and OpenAI that includes the development of a massive AI data center — Stargate UAE — in Abu Dhabi. This one-gigawatt AI computing hub will place the UAE at the forefront of AI infrastructure globally, with 200 megawatts expected to come online in 2026.
This AI-centric shift is expected to significantly impact the UAE’s real estate market:
Free ChatGPT Plus access for all UAE residents will act as a nationwide catalyst for AI literacy, innovation, and entrepreneurship. From improving education to business productivity, this democratization positions the UAE as a magnet for startups and global talent, reinforcing long-term economic diversification goals under Vision 2030.
With Abu Dhabi and Dubai emerging as a strategic AI hub and global tech alliances forming on UAE soil, investors should monitor mixed-use developments, commercial zones near AI infrastructure, and tech-oriented real estate assets. This is not just a digital transformation — it’s a physical one, with clear implications for capital growth, rental yields, and long-term asset appreciation.
