If things go according to plan, yes. The UAE may soon become the first country in the world to offer free access to ChatGPT Plus, the premium version of OpenAI’s widely used AI chatbot. Usually priced at Dh74 per month, the service will soon be available at no cost to residents across the country.

The move is reported to be part of a new national initiative called OpenAI for Countries, a partnership that is aimed at advancing local AI infrastructure while promoting safe and responsible AI use globally.

AI Infrastructure Powered by Global Tech Giants

As part of the agreement, a major AI computing hub called Stargate UAE is being developed in Abu Dhabi. The project is backed by OpenAI and several international tech companies, including Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, SoftBank, and UAE-based G42.

The first phase of the facility is expected to be operational by next year, with an initial capacity of 200 megawatts. Over time, it will scale up to one gigawatt of AI computing power, a significant infrastructure milestone.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said the collaboration is designed to “extend the benefits of AI” to more people globally, supporting improvements in healthcare, education, and energy sustainability.

Free, But With Strategic Goals

According to The New York Times, the agreement also involves a matching investment model for every dollar spent by the UAE on local AI development, a corresponding investment will be made into US-based AI infrastructure. The total value of these investments could reach up to $20 billion.

While UAE residents gain free access to advanced AI tools, the larger aim is to position both the UAE and the US as leaders in the global AI space.

What It Means for UAE Residents

For the general public, there is no immediate cost. Anyone living in the UAE will be able to use ChatGPT Plus for free, whether for studying, business support, creative projects, or day-to-day use. Users will benefit from faster responses, access to advanced models, and a suite of enhanced AI features.

OpenAI has said it will explore similar partnerships with other countries. Its Chief Strategy Officer, Jason Kwon, is expected to visit Asia-Pacific nations in the coming months to discuss potential collaborations.

For now, the UAE stands out as the first to roll out nationwide access to advanced AI tools.