Ooredoo CEO, Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, recently announced a partnership with Nvidia to deploy artificial intelligence technology at data centers in five Middle Eastern countries. This agreement marks Nvidia’s first large-scale launch in a region where the export of sophisticated U.S. chips is restricted by Washington to prevent Chinese access to the newest AI technology. Ooredoo will be the first company in the region to offer clients in Qatar, Algeria, Tunisia, Oman, Kuwait, and the Maldives direct access to Nvidia’s AI and graphics processing technology.
The partnership with Nvidia will enable Ooredoo to provide its customers with advanced generative AI applications, giving them a competitive edge in the market. Ooredoo CEO, Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, highlighted that this agreement will offer services that competitors may not have access to for another 18 to 24 months. The deal, whose value was not disclosed, was signed at the TM Forum in Copenhagen on June 19. The specific Nvidia technology to be installed in Ooredoo data centers will depend on availability and customer demand.
While Washington restricts the export of some Nvidia technology to the Middle East, Ooredoo is investing $1 billion to expand its regional data center capacity by adding 20-25 additional megawatts. It plans to further increase this capacity by almost tripling it by the end of the decade. Ooredoo recently separated its data centers into a distinct entity, following a similar move last year to create the Middle East’s largest tower company in collaboration with Kuwait’s Zain and Dubai’s TASC Towers Holding. Additionally, the telecom group intends to establish a separate entity for its undersea cables and fiber network.
As technology continues to advance, partnerships like the one between Ooredoo and Nvidia are crucial for companies looking to stay ahead in the competitive market. By providing clients with direct access to Nvidia’s AI and graphics processing technology, Ooredoo aims to enhance its customer offerings and deliver innovative solutions. The growing demand for AI applications in various industries necessitates investments in cutting-edge technologies, making collaborations with industry leaders like Nvidia essential for companies seeking sustainable growth.
The strategic partnership between Ooredoo and Nvidia not only showcases the telecom company’s commitment to technological innovation but also highlights its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its customers. By investing in advanced AI technology and expanding its data center capacity, Ooredoo is positioning itself as a leader in the region’s digital transformation. With plans to further enhance its infrastructure and services, Ooredoo is poised to drive growth and progress in the Middle Eastern telecom sector, setting new standards for excellence and innovation.
