Qualcomm Technologies Joins UAE’s NextGen FDI Programme To Advance 5G, AI, And IoT Innovations

The UAE Ministry of Economy has revealed that Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. has joined its NextGen FDI initiative. This programme, started in 2022, aims to attract tech-focused companies to the UAE. Qualcomm has now set up operations in Abu Dhabi and is increasing its collaboration with local ecosystem participants.

Qualcomm Technologies, based in San Diego, California, is a key player in wireless technology and semiconductors. The company has been instrumental in advancing 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies as well as high-performance computing and AI. Recently, it partnered with UAE-based AI firm G42 to integrate its Cloud AI products into G42’s Core42.

Alongside establishing a presence in Abu Dhabi, Qualcomm Technologies will contribute to the NextGen FDI initiative through Qualcomm Ventures. This investment arm focuses on early to growth-stage companies across sectors like 5G, AI, automotive, IoT, and Cloud and Enterprise. The collaboration involves evaluating and potentially investing in promising startups within the initiative.

Qualcomm Ventures supports over 150 active portfolio companies and has achieved numerous successful exits. The NextGenFDI initiative will assist any Qualcomm Ventures' portfolio companies aiming to expand within the UAE and the region.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, hailed Qualcomm Technologies' involvement as a significant milestone for the UAE's NextGen FDI Programme. He noted that this partnership would enhance the nation's innovation ecosystem and economic efforts to become a global technology hub.

Al Zeyoudi stated, "We met Qualcomm at CES 2025 in Las Vegas and were pleased to know of their plans for the UAE. Qualcomm’s innovations in 5G, AI and the Internet of Things are already playing a crucial role in advancing our digital transformation and we are excited about the potential to extend their impact through the NextGen FDI initiative."

Qualcomm's Commitment to UAE's Growth

Akash Palkhiwala, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Qualcomm Technologies, expressed pride in establishing a presence in Abu Dhabi. He said that advancements in 5G, AI, and IoT are driving technology ecosystem growth. "Qualcomm is proud to be present now in Abu Dhabi and to support the NextGen FDI initiative," he stated.

Palkhiwala added that Qualcomm is already collaborating with UAE companies on local and global technology solutions based on their offerings. He highlighted Core42’s launch of Inference as a Service powered by Qualcomm Cloud AI Accelerators as an example of such collaborations.

The involvement of Qualcomm Technologies is expected to bolster the UAE’s digital ambitions by enhancing its 5G and AI capabilities. This development will open new possibilities for businesses, consumers, and government services while reinforcing the country's position as a global centre for innovation.

With inputs from WAM