DAMAC Group has announced ambitious plans to expand its global data centre capacity to 10GW by the end of 2027, up from the current capacity of approximately 6GW. This expansion is a direct response to the rising global demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud-computing infrastructure, highlighting the company’s commitment to investing in technology and digital infrastructure.
DAMAC’s Expansion Strategy and Investment Focus
Hussain Sajwani, the Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Group, shared these plans during the Bloomberg Invest Dubai 2026 event. He emphasized the company’s international growth strategy and the lucrative investment opportunities emerging within the technology sector. Sajwani’s investments in leading tech firms, such as OpenAI and SpaceX, have yielded substantial returns, demonstrating the potential profitability of this sector.
Currently, DAMAC’s data centre portfolio includes around 6,000MW of planned capacity, with significant projects in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The company is actively expanding its presence in 14 countries and is considering additional opportunities in markets like Thailand, Malaysia, and Australia.
Key facts
- DAMAC aims to increase its global data centre capacity to 10GW by 2027.
- The current capacity is approximately 6GW, with 1,000MW in the US, 2,500MW in Europe, and 2,500MW in Asia.
- Approximately billion has already been invested in the US data centre programme, with a total planned investment of billion.
- DAMAC is focusing on large-scale data centres, starting at around 100MW, using liquid-cooling technologies.
- Development costs for data centres have increased by about 30%, with potential for further rises of 20% to 30%.
Implications for UAE Residents and Businesses
The expansion of DAMAC’s data centre capacity signifies a growing investment in digital infrastructure, which is crucial for supporting the UAE’s ambitions in technology and innovation. As the demand for AI services continues to rise, this development could enhance the UAE’s position as a regional tech hub, attracting more businesses and talent to the area.
For UAE residents and businesses, the growth of data centres means improved access to cloud services and AI technologies, which can drive efficiency and innovation across various sectors. Additionally, as DAMAC invests in sustainable technologies, there may be opportunities for local companies to engage in partnerships or supply chains related to these developments.
What happens next
- DAMAC plans to acquire additional land outside the US over the next 12 to 18 months to support new data centre facilities.
- The company is in advanced discussions to acquire a large site in Australia and is exploring further opportunities in the UK.
DAMAC’s commitment to expanding its data centre capacity reflects the increasing importance of digital infrastructure in the modern economy, particularly in the context of AI and cloud computing.
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