OpenAI signs deals with energy firms and government in the UAE

OpenAI has signed deals to put its technology to work across energy companies, investment firms and government agencies in the United Arab Emirates. Sam Altman, the company's chief executive, traveled to the UAE to sign the agreements. The deals come as OpenAI looks for billions of dollars in funding from investors backed by the UAE government.

What changed

OpenAI makes ChatGPT and other AI tools. Until now, the company's ties to the UAE were looser. These agreements deepen them. They cover three kinds of customers: energy companies, investment firms and government agencies. At the same time, OpenAI is asking the country's state-backed investors for money.

Why it matters

Building and running AI costs enormous sums. That means a company like OpenAI needs very large investors, and some of them are governments or government-backed funds. When one country is both a customer and a source of funding, money and politics can start to shape who builds AI and how it gets used. That can matter to anyone who relies on these tools.

What is not known yet

• How much money OpenAI is seeking, or whether any funding is agreed.
• The financial terms of the deals.
• Which specific companies and agencies are involved.
• What the technology will be used for in each case.

The report says OpenAI is seeking the funding. It does not say the money has been promised. Further details would need to come from OpenAI or its UAE partners.