Cisco Systems Inc. Expands Collaboration with G42 to Enhance AI Infrastructure in the UAE

The announcement, made on October 28, 2025, showcases Cisco's dedication to advancing digital technology in the UAE. As part of this initiative, Cisco will support the deployment of a large-scale AI cluster powered by advanced AMD MI350X GPUs, integrating a comprehensive suite of secure AI infrastructure components. This includes compute, networking, security, storage, optics, as well as observability and analytics tools, designed to deliver scalable performance and unified management for sophisticated AI workloads.

Cisco’s role extends beyond infrastructure; it will serve as the technology integrator within G42's Regulated Technology Environment (RTE). This framework is a gold-standard compliance and security model aimed at ensuring that advanced compute infrastructure operates under the strictest standards of protection, transparency, and governance. The RTE is designed to prevent unauthorized access, transfer, or misuse of advanced computing systems, thereby enhancing trust in the technology deployed in the region.

This collaboration builds upon existing efforts under the US-UAE AI Acceleration Partnership, which aims to advance bilateral technology goals. It includes flagship projects like the 1GW Stargate UAE cluster currently under construction in Abu Dhabi and the ambitious 5GW UAE-US AI technology campus, which was announced during President Trump's state visit to the UAE in May 2025.

Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, stating, "This collaboration with Cisco represents the next phase of deepening trust and technological alignment between the US and UAE under the AI Acceleration Partnership." He highlighted the shared commitment to building secure and compliant AI infrastructure that fosters global innovation while adhering to high standards of governance.

Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO of Cisco, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Cisco is proud to deepen our partnership with G42, powering the UAE's next wave of AI innovation." He underscored Cisco’s role in supporting the UAE's digital transformation and the collaboration's alignment with responsible and impactful innovation.

Dr. Lisa Su, Chair and CEO of AMD, also expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that AMD's MI350X accelerators will provide the performance and scalability necessary to advance secure AI innovation in the UAE.

According to Cisco's recent AI research, an overwhelming 92% of organizations in the UAE plan to deploy AI agents, with 41% expecting these agents to work alongside human employees within a year. However, only 25% of these organizations currently possess robust GPU capacity. This partnership aims to close the gap by delivering scalable and secure AI infrastructure tailored for growth.

Cisco is uniquely positioned to offer an end-to-end AI-ready data center solution. This infrastructure will utilize Cisco's UCS 885A servers equipped with AMD MI350X GPUs for enhanced computing power, high-speed Nexus 9K 800G switches for networking, and Firepower 4200 next-generation firewalls for security. Coupled with the VAST AI Operating System and advanced services for planning and implementation, this deployment promises to elevate the performance and reliability of networks across the region.

As part of the collaboration, G42 and Cisco will work closely with relevant U.S. government agencies to secure the necessary licenses and regulatory approvals for deployment—a process anticipated to advance in the coming months. This proactive approach ensures that all technological advancements align with legal and regulatory standards, further solidifying the integrity of the partnership.

Cisco's expanded partnership with G42 represents a significant step forward in the UAE's AI journey, reflecting a commitment to building a secure, innovative, and compliant digital infrastructure. As AI continues to drive innovation globally, this collaboration positions both companies at the forefront of technological advancement in the region, paving the way for a more digitally resilient future.