Dubai: The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has unveiled a collaboration with VOLT UAE, a regional platform launched by the Dutch developer of data centres and AI factories, VOLT. This partnership aims to create an advanced, AI-ready data centre within Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), an area renowned for its focus on knowledge and innovation, reinforcing Dubai's stature as a global leader in the digital economy.
According to Emirates News Agency, the announcement was made with key figures present, including Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ; Han de Groot, CEO of VOLT; Koenraad Crooijmans, Head of Capital Markets at VOLT; and Amel Chadli, President, Gulf Cluster at Schneider Electric. The facility will be equipped with high-performance infrastructure, ensuring resilience, uninterrupted operations, and security under various conditions.
The data centre, designed with robust architecture, redundant systems, and fortified infrastructure, will maintain continuous availability, even in demanding environments. It will support advanced computing and AI applications, thus bolstering Dubai's expanding digital ecosystem. The project aims to set new standards for robustness and reliability in digital infrastructure.
DIEZ and VOLT UAE will work alongside Schneider Electric to implement advanced electrical systems, power distribution, and smart data centre infrastructure, enhancing efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. The announcement was officially made during a signing ceremony at DIEZ headquarters, attended by senior representatives from all involved parties.
The strategic partnership between DIEZ and VOLT UAE is part of DIEZ's ongoing efforts to improve digital infrastructure and attract investments in future-oriented sectors. This initiative is also aligned with Dubai's vision to strengthen its position as a global digital economy hub. The project will support the growth of the data centre sector and meet the rising demand for sophisticated computing solutions.
The development spans up to 60,000 square meters and will be executed in two phases: an initial 29 MW capacity followed by an additional 100 MW of committed power. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni highlighted the strategic timing of the partnership amid global shifts, underscoring the resilience of Dubai's economic model and its appeal to investors in sectors focused on the future.
Han de Groot emphasized the significance of this partnership with DIEZ in advancing VOLT's international expansion, citing Dubai's world-class infrastructure as a key factor. The project aims to be more than a data centre, serving as an AI factory to support advanced AI applications and digital workloads in the region.
Amel Chadli of Schneider Electric remarked on the defining moment for the UAE's digital future presented by this project. The AI-ready data centre is envisioned as a foundation for future smart city developments, with Schneider Electric providing comprehensive infrastructure solutions.
The project highlights Dubai's commitment to fostering advanced digital infrastructure for AI applications, benefiting from Schneider Electric's expertise. Under the agreement, DIEZ will offer land and core infrastructure, while VOLT UAE will manage development, financing, construction, and operations of the data centre facilities.