Microsoft Sets Sights on $10 Billion Middle East Investment Push

Microsoft has announced plans to invest over $10 billion in the Middle East by 2030, as part of its efforts to support the region's technological ambitions. The investment will be spread across several countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait.

The company aims to increase regional access to its cloud and AI tools, which are seen as crucial for the region's digital transformation. Microsoft President Brad Smith noted that the region is undergoing significant challenges due to geopolitical conflicts, but emphasized that the company will continue to support the governments and people of these countries.

As part of its investment plan, Microsoft has pledged to upskill over 4.2 million people in the Middle East by 2030, which is roughly 8% of the combined population of the four countries mentioned. The company also plans to invest $400 million in subsea and terrestrial cables to improve local digital resilience.