The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has experienced significant growth in the number of registered AI companies, with over 400 companies established in Abu Dhabi by the end of the second quarter of 2024. The rapid pace at which these companies are being formed, averaging one every two days, highlights the increasing interest in AI and its applications in the emirate. This growth underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to positioning itself as a global hub for innovation and technology.
A recent study conducted by the Abu Dhabi Chamber revealed that approximately 90 AI companies were established in just six months, representing a 41.3% growth in the sector during the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year. The study also highlighted that the number of registered AI companies in the emirate has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 67% between 2021 and 2023, showcasing the sector’s swift expansion locally and Abu Dhabi’s attractiveness as a leading hub for technological innovation.
The study further identified that commercial activities related to innovation and AI research and consultancies were the most prevalent among AI companies during the second quarter of 2024, accounting for 69% of all activities. AI training activities ranked second at 11%, followed by the management and operation of AI robotic systems at 10%. These findings indicate a growing interest from both the government and private sectors in advancing technology and promoting economic growth through high-level research and consulting services.
The Abu Dhabi Chamber plays a crucial role in supporting AI companies in the emirate by providing a platform for communication, collaboration, and commercial exchange. Through its initiatives, programmes, and events, the Chamber acts as a bridge between AI companies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that the current and future needs of the sector are met. The Chamber’s efforts align with its strategy to position Abu Dhabi as the top choice for business and talent in the MENA region by 2025, offering comprehensive digital services tailored to the needs of AI companies.
Among the Chamber’s global initiatives is the ChamberGPT AI platform, which has seen significant growth in interactions, with over 6,000 interactions from 85 countries during the second quarter of 2024. This reflects a 39% increase in the number of messages received and a 166% increase in the number of countries from which these messages originated in the first half of the year. These initiatives are crucial in advancing the AI landscape in Abu Dhabi and promoting the adoption of innovation and digital transformations to support the growth and success of AI companies in the emirate.