#United States #San Jose #Cisco #AI Infrastructure #G42

Deepening Technological Ties: Cisco and G42 Join Forces

In a significant move for the technology landscape of the United Arab Emirates, Cisco and G42 have announced a deepened partnership aimed at advancing secure, end-to-end AI infrastructure across the region. This collaboration signifies a crucial milestone in the ongoing US-UAE AI Acceleration Partnership.

Building a Secure AI Framework

As part of the initiative, Cisco will be instrumental in powering, connecting, and securing a large-scale AI cluster that G42 is deploying. The infrastructure will utilize AMD's state-of-the-art MI350X GPUs, which promise high-performance capabilities for demanding AI workloads. Cisco's comprehensive, secure AI infrastructure encompasses various elements, including computing, networking, security, storage, and analytics tools. This multifaceted approach ensures optimal performance and management for the most advanced artificial intelligence tasks in the region.

The collaboration positions Cisco as the technology integrator in G42's Regulated Technology Environment (RTE), a framework designed to uphold rigorous standards in compliance and security. The RTE ensures that sophisticated computing infrastructures maintain high levels of protection and governance, effectively preventing unauthorized access and data misuse.

A Strategic Collaboration

This partnership is an expansion of previous efforts under the US-UAE AI Acceleration Partnership, which aims to meet bilateral technology objectives. Significant projects under this partnership include the 1GW Stargate UAE cluster, currently under construction in Abu Dhabi, and a major 5GW UAE-US AI technology campus announced during President Trump's visit in May 2025.

Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, articulated the significance of this collaboration by stating, “This partnership with Cisco represents the next phase of deepening trust and technological alignment between the US and UAE under the AI Acceleration Partnership.” He emphasized the commitment to establishing a secure, compliant AI infrastructure that facilitates global innovation while adhering to strict governance standards.

Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO of Cisco, reiterated Cisco's dedication to this partnership, asserting that it significantly enhances the infrastructure needed for the UAE's forthcoming wave of AI innovation. He remarked, “Together, we are laying the foundation for a future defined by responsible and impactful innovation.”

Powering Future AI Initiatives

Adding to this sentiment, Dr. Lisa Su, Chair and CEO of AMD, highlighted the importance of their collaboration by noting, “Our AMD Instinct MI350X accelerators deliver the performance, efficiency, and scalability needed to advance secure, sovereign AI innovation.” This partnership will not only boost the technological capabilities of the UAE but reinforces its position on the global stage as a leader in AI development.

Bridging the AI Gap

Cisco's AI research indicates that 92% of organizations within the UAE plan to deploy AI agents, with many expecting these agents to collaborate with their human employees in the coming year. However, only around 25% currently possess robust GPU capabilities. This partnership seeks to address this gap by delivering scalable and secure AI infrastructure that is designed for growth. As AI technologies increasingly drive innovation across industries, Cisco's involvement in the UAE's digital transformation journey becomes ever more significant.

A Comprehensive AI-Ready Infrastructure

Cisco's commitment to advancing the AI landscape is evident through its realization of an end-to-end AI-ready data center solution. This includes a blend of compute, networking, security, automation, and optical technologies. Key components include Cisco UCS 885A servers powered by AMD MI350X GPUs, high-speed Nexus 9K switches, and top-tier security measures such as Firepower 4200 next-generation firewalls.

With its advanced services for planning and implementation, Cisco is set to play a vital role in developing the UAE’s high-performance data environments.

Looking Ahead

As G42 and Cisco navigate through the complexities of deploying this technology, they will collaborate with relevant U.S. government agencies to secure the necessary licenses. Anticipating continued momentum, the deployment is expected to move forward in the near future, pending regulatory approvals.

In summary, the partnership between Cisco and G42 marks a crucial development for the UAE's technological landscape, reinforcing both nations' commitment to fostering a secure, innovative future in artificial intelligence.