Saudi Arabia’s leading telecommunications operator, stc Group, has announced a major joint venture with the Kingdom’s artificial intelligence company, Humain, to develop and operate a new generation of data centres. The move signals a significant acceleration in the nation’s efforts to build a world-class infrastructure capable of supporting the massive computing demands of AI.
The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish the new entity, which will see Humain holding a 51% controlling stake, while stc will own the remaining 49%.
A Strategic Partnership for AI Supremacy
This joint venture brings together the telecommunications and infrastructure prowess of stc with the focused AI ambitions of Humain. The collaboration aims to develop a robust data centre infrastructure capable of supporting a required load of up to 1 gigawatt.
The project will commence with an initial deployment of up to 250 megawatts, laying the foundation for a scalable network designed to power Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing AI ecosystem and its broader economic diversification strategy.
Powering the Kingdom’s Vision
The partnership is a direct response to the massive global demand for computing power driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. For Saudi Arabia, developing domestic AI capabilities and the underlying infrastructure is a core pillar of its strategy to diversify the economy away from oil revenues.
By building this critical infrastructure locally, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a key regional and global hub for AI development and data processing.
Humain’s Rapid Ascent in the AI Space
Humain, an AI company backed by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has quickly emerged as a formidable player in the sector. The company has already secured several high-profile agreements, including deals with Elon Musk’s xAI and the Blackstone-backed data centre operator AirTrunk.
With a stated target of reaching a capacity of approximately 6 gigawatts by 2034, Humain is aggressively pursuing its goal of making Saudi Arabia a leader in the global AI landscape. This joint venture with stc is a critical step in achieving that ambitious vision.
About stc Group
stc Group is a leading digital enabler in the Middle East and North Africa, providing innovative services and platforms to customers and enabling the digital transformation of the MENA region. The company offers a variety of ICT solutions and digital services in several categories, including telecommunication, IT, financial technology, digital media, cybersecurity, and other advanced digital solutions.
About Humain
Humain is a Saudi Arabian company focused on artificial intelligence and backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). The company is dedicated to building and deploying the necessary infrastructure and capabilities to advance AI development within the Kingdom and beyond, aiming to establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in the field.
Source: Zawya
