Stargate UAE to Finish Phase One by Q3 2026
Introduction
Construction of G42’s Stargate UAE, the country’s most ambitious AI data-centre campus, is moving ahead at full speed. So far, more than 100,000 cubic metres of concrete have been poured, and over 5,000 workers are on site building what could become one of the world’s largest AI clusters. As a result, progress on Phase One is accelerating.
What Is Stargate UAE — And What’s in Phase One
Stargate UAE is a 1-gigawatt-scale AI data-centre cluster developed by G42 in partnership with global technology leaders such as OpenAI and Nvidia. In its first phase, the project will deliver 200 MW of compute capacity.
Construction began in mid-2024, and by late 2025, large-scale foundation work is fully underway.
Why This Matters — Strategic Significance for the UAE & Global AI
Elevating the UAE as a Global AI Powerhouse
Once completed, Stargate UAE will position the Emirates as a leading global hub for AI infrastructure. Consequently, the UAE will gain stronger influence in AI development and deployment.
Enabling High-Capacity AI Services & Innovation
With massive compute capacity and world-class infrastructure, Stargate UAE will unlock advanced AI services, fuel innovation, and strengthen the UAE’s digital economy. Moreover, the project directly supports the country’s long-term diversification away from oil.
International Partnerships & Technology Transfer
Built with leading global tech partners, Stargate UAE will encourage technology transfer, international collaboration, and shared AI research. Therefore, the UAE will play a larger role in shaping global AI standards.
What to Watch — Phase One Impact & What Comes Next
By Q3 2026, the first 200 MW phase will go live. At that point, expect announcements marking the launch of Abu Dhabi’s first operational mega-AI cluster.
As partners deploy AI chips and begin testing, early use cases are likely to emerge quickly.
Expansion Decisions
Key questions remain — will the project scale beyond 1 GW toward the planned 5 GW mega-campus? This will determine how prominently the UAE features on the global AI map.
Policy & Regulation
With such significant AI power, the UAE will also need robust governance, data-security regulations, and responsible-AI frameworks. Ultimately, these will be essential for global trust, safety, and compliance.
Conclusion
Stargate UAE’s first-phase completion by Q3 2026 represents a major milestone for the UAE’s AI ambitions. Once operational, the project could transform the nation into a critical global node for AI compute, innovation, and digital growth.
For investors, observers, technologists, and policymakers worldwide, Stargate UAE is a project to watch closely.
