KKR and Gulf Data Hub Join Forces to Expand Middle East's Independent Data Center Network

Business

KKR and Gulf Data Hub Join Forces to Expand Middle East's Independent Data Center Network

Strategic partnership announced between KKR and Gulf Data Hub (GDH,$5 billion investment to support hyperscale demand, AI, and digital priorities across Gulf nations

Gulf Data Hub (GDH), one of the Middle East's leading independent data center platforms, and KKR, a global investment firm, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at scaling GDH's regional presence. KKR, through its Global Infrastructure strategy, will acquire a stake in GDH, with plans to drive over $5 billion in total investments, subject to regulatory approvals.

GDH, headquartered in Dubai since its inception in 2012, operates seven state-of-the-art data centers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. It plans further expansion into Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman to address increasing hyperscale demand driven by trends in digital connectivity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Revolutionizing Digital Infrastructure
This partnership underscores the UAE’s leadership in advancing digital and AI capabilities, aligning with its National Strategy for Digital Economy. GDH has already facilitated seamless operations for cloud and enterprise customers through its scalable platform and advanced infrastructure.

His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, stated, “The UAE exemplifies visionary leadership, driving digital and AI capabilities to new heights. Through initiatives like this, we are shaping a smarter, more connected future.”

Global Expertise Meets Regional Ambition
Tarek Al Ashram, Founder and CEO of GDH, said, “This milestone marks a new chapter in GDH’s growth as we welcome KKR as a strategic partner. Their expertise will help us achieve regional ambitions and deliver unparalleled value to our customers.”

KKR’s executives emphasized the Middle East’s potential as a hub for hyperscale deployment, highlighting its cost-effective energy resources and strategic location connecting Asia and Africa. Tara Davies, Co-Head of KKR EMEA, added, “Our investment aligns with our commitment to digital infrastructure and reinforces the Middle East as a prime destination for long-term capital.”

KKR’s Digital Infrastructure Legacy
With over 15 years of experience in the Middle East, KKR has invested in several high-profile projects, including ADNOC Oil Pipelines and aircraft leasing partnerships with Etihad Airways. Globally, KKR manages $77 billion in infrastructure assets, with a significant footprint in digital infrastructure spanning 100+ facilities across four platforms.

This partnership is expected to accelerate AI-driven demand for data centers while addressing global power challenges through KKR’s $50 billion collaboration with Energy Capital Partners.