Stargate UAE to become one of the world’s largest AI computing hubs, but questions remain about free access to ChatGPT Plus
In a landmark move set to reshape the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, OpenAI has signed a groundbreaking partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to build one of the world’s most powerful AI computing facilities — the “Stargate UAE.” While this ambitious project signals a new era of technological collaboration, speculation is rising about whether UAE citizens will receive free access to the premium version of ChatGPT, known as ChatGPT Plus.
A Strategic Alliance for AI Development
The Stargate UAE project is part of OpenAI’s broader “OpenAI for Countries” initiative, aimed at bringing cutting-edge AI infrastructure to partner nations. OpenAI and its partners are building this one-gigawatt data center in Abu Dhabi as the first phase of a larger five-gigawatt complex announced during former U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit. President Donald Trump’s recent diplomatic visit to the Gulf region.
The project is a joint venture involving major global tech firms such as Oracle, Nvidia, SoftBank, and Cisco, alongside G42, an Emirati artificial intelligence powerhouse. OpenAI and its partners plan to launch the initial 200-megawatt phase by 2026.
A $20 Billion Investment in the Future
According to Axios, investors plan to commit approximately $20 billion overall, allocating around $8 billion to infrastructure in the Gulf region and earmarking $10 billion for U.S.-based initiatives.
The U.S. government has given its green light to this collaboration, highlighting the strategic importance of AI in international relations and economic development.
Nationwide AI Integration
OpenAI has stated that the UAE will be the first country to implement nationwide access to ChatGPT across various sectors, including healthcare, education, energy, and public services. This move could revolutionize how Emirati citizens interact with digital services and governmental platforms.
Is ChatGPT Plus Going to Be Free?
Despite the high-profile announcements and sweeping visions for AI integration, OpenAI has not confirmed whether the ChatGPT Plus subscription — which currently costs $20 per month — will be made free for UAE citizens. While some media outlets have speculated that premium access might be offered at no cost, no official statement from either OpenAI or the UAE government supports this claim.
At present, the free version of ChatGPT (powered by GPT-3.5) continues to be accessible to all UAE residents, but premium access remains behind a paywall.
Conclusion
As the UAE positions itself as a global AI hub, the Stargate project marks a historic step in international tech collaboration. While the promise of nationwide ChatGPT integration is clear, the question of free access to its premium features remains unanswered — for now.
