The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), through the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), has partnered with the South African Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA) to establish a pioneering AI trade and investment hub. This forward-thinking initiative aims to accelerate cross-border collaboration and create new opportunities for AI startups and investors across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
Bringing together an array of regional stakeholders and international partners, this collaborative effort is focused on overcoming two major obstacles historically faced by early-stage tech ventures: market access and capital acquisition. The hub is designed to provide startups with the necessary resources to scale their businesses, attract investments, and engage with global networks.
The DCAI, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and operated under the auspices of the DFF, will act as the Middle East’s anchor for this initiative. Given Dubai’s strategic position as a global trade, capital, and talent hub, the city is poised to serve as an ideal foundation for this ambitious project.
“AI is redrawing the map of global opportunity, and cross-continental collaboration is key to navigating this new landscape,” said Saeed Al Falasi, Director of the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence. “By connecting dynamic and fast-growing ecosystems, we’re not just supporting startups in emerging markets — we’re shaping a more inclusive future in AI. Dubai is where bold ideas take root and are exported to the world.”
“While AI investment is growing rapidly across Europe and the Middle East, Africa’s innovation landscape is often overlooked,” said Nick Bradshaw, Founder and Chairman of SAAIA.
Despite being home to some of the world’s most resilient tech startups, African innovation has not received the attention it deserves.
“Our partnership with DCAI and other global collaborators is a strategic step to bridge that gap and give African startups the access to capital, markets, and networks they need to thrive,” said Bradshaw.
The potential for AI innovation in Africa is already being highlighted through successful examples, such as the $628 million acquisition of Tunisian AI startup InstaDeep, showcasing the continent’s untapped capabilities. The new AI trade and investment hub will offer various support services, including connecting startups with investors, launching business expansion programs, and providing opportunities for knowledge exchange with international AI experts.
