UAE's G42 presses forward with OpenAI data center expansion despite regional conflict

G42, the Abu Dhabi-based AI company, is proceeding with construction of a massive data center campus and overseas expansion plans despite attacks on regional infrastructure. The company, which signed a partnership with OpenAI in January, said its projects remain on track. G42 has positioned itself as the United Arab Emirates' primary AI champion, securing partnerships with major U.S. technology companies. The data center campus represents a significant infrastructure commitment in the Persian Gulf region. G42 has faced scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers over its ties to China, but has since divested from Chinese hardware suppliers to satisfy American regulators. Chief Executive Officer Peng Xiao said the company is moving past regional tensions to execute on its long-term strategy.