Dubai: Gulf Data Hub and KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced that funds affiliated with KKR will acquire a stake in GDH. The investment, which is subject to customary regulatory approvals, is being made through KKR's Global Infrastructure strategy. The transaction marks one of the largest international investments into a UAE-founded and managed business in a fast-growing sector that benefits from high demand and major competitive advantages, reaffirming the UAE's leadership in accelerating digital and AI capabilities.
According to Emirates News Agency, upon completion, KKR and GDH have committed to support over US$5 billion of total investment to grow GDH's market-leading position and to support its international growth plans through organic and inorganic strategies. Commenting on the transaction, Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, remarked on the UAE's role in setting a global benchmark for innovation and progress through digital and AI capabilities.
Al Olama emphasized that this milestone enhances the UAE's journey of growth and aligns with the National Strategy for Digital Economy. He highlighted the importance of the launch of numerous data centers in 2024, representing a strong start to 2025 and reaffirming the UAE's dedication to strengthening its digital infrastructure.
Tarek Al Ashram, Founder and CEO of Gulf Data Hub, stated that the partnership with KKR marks a milestone in GDH's growth journey. The strategic collaboration is expected to leverage KKR's expertise to help GDH achieve its pan-regional ambitions and deliver on its mandate of being a partner and provider of choice.
Tara Davies, Co-Head of KKR EMEA and Co-Head of European Infrastructure, noted the attractiveness of the Middle East as a region for hyperscale deployment, citing its competitively priced energy and strategic position as a gateway hub for Asia and Africa. KKR's investment in GDH aligns with its conviction in digital infrastructure and reinforces its continued commitment to the Middle East.
Waldemar Szlezak, Global Head of Digital Infrastructure at KKR, highlighted the increasing demand for data center capacity driven by the ongoing migration to cloud computing and the rise of AI. He underscored the strategic importance of investments like the one with GDH to harness the potential of the digital future.
