The United Arab Emirates is rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for artificial intelligence with the launch of the Stargate UAE project, one of the world’s largest AI data centers located in Abu Dhabi. Backed by OpenAI and supported by the US, the facility is designed to draw an estimated 5 gigawatts of power, positioning it as a central node for AI innovation across the Middle East. Concurrently, the UAE government has introduced a pioneering initiative offering all citizens free access to ChatGPT Plus, marking a significant step in universal basic AI adoption. While these developments underscore the country’s ambition to lead in AI infrastructure and services, concerns about regulation, ethics, and the lag in productivity gains remain prominent. Experts highlight that the rapid reshaping of infrastructure through AI is advancing faster than anticipated, signaling a defining moment for global AI and technological infrastructure.