Expanding Horizons: Ooredoo’s Tech Transformation
Keen on staying ahead of the curve? Stay informed with the latest updates on Artificial Intelligence by subscribing to the myFT Digest. Qatari telecoms giant, Ooredoo, is changing the game by borrowing QR2bn to revolutionize its data center network in the Middle East.
Discover the World of Ooredoo’s Vision:
– Ooredoo, a government-majority owned company that operates independently, is elevating its data center subsidiary, Mena Digital Hub, to meet the sky-rocketing demand for artificial intelligence applications.
– With a 10-year financing facility secured from three Qatari banks, Ooredoo plans to upscale its data centers, tapping into the growing AI market that is reshaping economies across the Gulf region.
Data is the New Gold Rush:
– Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are banking on AI to diversify their oil-dependent economies. Ooredoo, however, is setting its sights even higher by aiming to build 120MW of data center capacity in the next five years, becoming a major player in the region’s burgeoning tech industry.
– With a data center market projected to double by 2029 to 537MW, Ooredoo is strategically positioning itself as a trailblazer in this digital revolution.
Navigating the Tech Landscape:
– Partnerships with global tech leaders like Nvidia have solidified Ooredoo’s commitment to innovation. This alliance with Nvidia, which specializes in AI-integrated chips for data centers, showcases Ooredoo’s dedication to cutting-edge technologies.
– With rigorous regulatory approvals in place, setting up a data center can be a lengthy process. Nevertheless, Ooredoo is doubling down on its promise to deliver top-notch infrastructure, albeit with a time constraint.
Adapting to Challenges:
– Amidst geopolitical tensions, Ooredoo has ensured that it remains compliant with the US export laws in the AI domain. By steering clear of Chinese hardware in data centers catering to Western giants like Microsoft and Google, Ooredoo is playing it safe and securing its foothold in the global tech arena.
– The convergence of trade and technology competition between Washington and Beijing is reshaping how data centers are designed, but Ooredoo is unwavering in its commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions.
Concluding Thoughts:
In a world where technology reigns supreme, Ooredoo’s visionary approach to data centers and AI applications is a testament to the company’s unwavering ambition. As the tech landscape evolves, Ooredoo’s commitment to growth, innovation, and adaptability will continue to pave the way for a brighter, more connected future.
