The UAE Ministry of Economy has announced that Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a global leader in wireless technology, semiconductors, and AI, has officially joined the NextGen FDI initiative. The program, launched in 2022, aims to attract technology-driven companies to establish a presence in the UAE and contribute to its digital transformation.
As part of this initiative, Qualcomm has opened an office in Abu Dhabi and is actively expanding its engagement with local technology players, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a hub for 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Qualcomm’s Key Role in UAE’s Digital Transformation
- Global Leadership – Qualcomm has pioneered innovations in 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies, as well as AI-driven computing.
- Strategic Partnership with G42 – Qualcomm is collaborating with UAE-based AI company G42 to integrate Cloud AI solutions into Core42, G42’s AI infrastructure unit.
- Investment in Startups – Through Qualcomm Ventures, the company will explore early to growth-stage investments in 5G, AI, automotive, IoT, and cloud computing sectors.
With over 150 active portfolio companies, Qualcomm Ventures is well-positioned to fuel innovation in the UAE by supporting promising NextGen FDI startups and helping its portfolio companies expand into the region.
Government Backing and Strategic Vision
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, welcomed Qualcomm’s participation as a significant milestone in the UAE’s NextGen FDI strategy.
Al Zeyoudi stated:
“We met Qualcomm at CES 2025 in Las Vegas and were pleased to know of their plans for the UAE. Qualcomm’s innovations in 5G, AI, and IoT are already playing a crucial role in advancing our digital transformation. The UAE’s digital ambitions require contributions from leading global entities, and Qualcomm Technologies can support the development of our 5G and AI capabilities, which will provide new opportunities for businesses, consumers, and government services.”
With the UAE positioning itself as a global hub for innovation, Qualcomm’s presence in Abu Dhabi is expected to accelerate the country’s technological growth and enhance its capabilities in AI and connectivity.
Qualcomm’s Commitment to the UAE
Akash Palkhiwala, CFO & COO of Qualcomm Technologies, said:
“Qualcomm is proud to be present now in Abu Dhabi and to support the NextGen FDI initiative. The latest advancements in 5G, AI, and IoT are catalysts for technology ecosystem growth. Qualcomm’s presence in Abu Dhabi puts us at the center of helping advance the UAE’s digital ambitions. We are already working closely with UAE companies, and most recently, Core42 announced the launch of its Inference as a Service powered by Qualcomm Cloud AI Accelerators.”
This collaboration underscores Qualcomm’s long-term commitment to advancing the UAE’s digital economy while developing AI and 5G-powered solutions that will transform industries and drive economic diversification.
Looking Ahead
With Qualcomm Technologies joining the UAE’s NextGen FDI initiative, the country reinforces its status as a global technology hub. By integrating 5G, AI, and IoT solutions into local industries, Qualcomm is set to play a pivotal role in the UAE’s digital transformation journey.
As the nation continues to attract top-tier technology firms, Qualcomm’s expansion in Abu Dhabi marks another step towards building an advanced, AI-driven economy that supports business growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
