Khazna Data Centers (Khazna), the largest hyperscale wholesale data center provider in the Middle East and North Africa, has unveiled the construction of its largest data center in the UAE.
Hassan Alnaqbi, CEO of Khazna, revealed during GITEX Global 2024, in the presence of H.E. Suhail Mohammed Al Mazroui, Minister of Energy & Infrastructure; and H.E. Yousif Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE.
The 100MW AI-optimized data center, located in Ajman, is the first of its kind in the region. The construction will reinforce Khazna’s market-leading position as an enabler of AI innovation and its commitment to powering the digital economy for the Age of AI.
Khazna’s latest 100k SQM facility, featuring 20 data halls, each with 5MW capacity, has already commenced and is expected to be completed in 15 months. The Tier 3 data center will be the first AI Data Center in the region and a testament to the UAE’s sizable efforts to meet rising power demands in the AI era, which are anticipated to double by 2026, according to the International Energy Agency.
Etihad Water and Electricity Company (EtihadWE) will provide the electricity to the Ajman data center. The facility is being constructed to an energy-efficient, modular design, which ensures that resources are used effectively.
With a multi-billion-dirham investment, Khazna’s AI-focused data center is expected to be operational by Q3 2025. This is set to positively impact the local economy by boosting highly skilled jobs in AI while cementing the UAE’s status as an investment hub for business, AI and innovation.
Hassan Alnaqbi CEO – Khazna Data Centers
“The launch of our 100MW AI-optimized data center is a testament to Khazna’s strong growth and reflects the UAE’s readiness to lead in AI innovation. There is a significant correlation between a nation’s preparedness for AI and the proficiency of its data infrastructure. Our new data center in Ajman has been specifically designed for the high computing power and scalability requirements of AI. Our advanced cooling techniques and energy-efficient modular designs to maximize both energy efficiency and scalability integrated within this data center will help the UAE anticipate and leverage this revolutionary technology. While at the same time support the nation’s goal of building a more environmentally sustainable economy.”
Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, commented that, “At Etihad Water and Electricity, we are proud to provide the critical energy solutions that power major innovations across the Northern Emirates. Supplying the AI-optimized data center in Ajman with reliable and efficient electricity underscores our role in enabling advanced technology infrastructures that support the UAE’s strategic goals in digital and economic growth. Our commitment to sustainable energy practices is fundamental to our support of projects that drive the nation’s progress in the age of artificial intelligence.”
With the landmark construction of the Ajman data center, Khazna aims to transform the digital economy to the Age of Artificial Intelligence, making AI a scalable and sustainable reality for economies and societies everywhere.
