Qatar has launched a new national artificial intelligence company, Qai, as a subsidiary of the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), marking a decisive step in building domestic AI capabilities. Shortly after its creation, Qai announced a $20 billion joint venture with global asset manager Brookfield to invest in AI infrastructure in Qatar and select international markets, positioning the country as a regional hub for advanced computing and AI services.
A Landmark Infrastructure Partnership
The partnership between Qai and Brookfield will focus on developing large-scale AI infrastructure, including fully integrated AI facilities designed to support high-performance computing. A core component of the initiative is the creation of an Integrated Compute center intended to expand regional access to advanced compute capacity and enable trusted AI deployments across critical sectors. In addition to Qatar, the partners plan to pursue opportunities in selected global markets.
Brookfield and its partners plan to invest through the Brookfield Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Fund, which was recently launched to support large-scale AI projects worldwide. The Qai partnership represents Brookfield’s first AI infrastructure investment in the Middle East and forms part of its broader ambition to mobilize up to $100 billion globally for AI-related infrastructure, leveraging its experience in operating mission-critical assets.
Defining Qatar’s National AI Strategy
The launch of Qai places Qatar alongside other Gulf states that have established state-backed AI champions, reflecting intensifying regional competition to attract AI infrastructure, talent, and capital. Under the chairmanship of Abdulla Al-Misnad, Qai is expected to focus on applied and trusted artificial intelligence, prioritizing the evaluation and commercialization of leading AI technologies rather than developing foundational large language models from scratch.
This strategy represents a shift for QIA from primarily investing in global AI companies to actively building AI platforms and infrastructure aligned with Qatar’s domestic priorities. The initiative supports the country’s broader push to diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons and embed advanced technologies across public and private sectors.
Positioning for Global Influence
QIA CEO Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi has emphasized that the initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and aims to generate both local and global impact. Brookfield CEO Bruce Flatt highlighted Qatar’s ambition to lead in next-generation digital infrastructure, noting the importance of integrated AI facilities in supporting responsible and scalable AI adoption.
The creation of Qai and its $20 billion partnership with Brookfield mark a significant milestone in Qatar’s AI ambitions. By prioritizing large-scale compute infrastructure and applied AI systems, Qatar is positioning itself not just as a participant in the global AI race, but as a regional platform for advanced digital infrastructure and trusted AI deployment.