The emirate of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has signed a three-way Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DataCanvas International and AI Caravan to bolster Sharjah’s standing in the realm of data centers and AI infrastructure.
The MoU was signed in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Communications Technology Authority (SCTA). The MoU was officially signed by Rashid Ali Al Ali (CEO, SCTA), Li Fang (CEO, DataCanvas International), and Jav Meer (Director of Strategic Planning and Relations at AI Caravan).
In a communique released via the Emirates News Agency (WAM), which is the official news agency of the UAE, the parties explained that the MoU outlines a framework for “developing collaborative efforts” among the parties to explore opportunities for establishing and operating data centers, and advancing technological infrastructure projects in Sharjah. Moreover, the MoU places emphasis on the development of “actionable plans and cooperation” to achieve the MoU’s goals, facilitate the exchange of expertise and technical know-how, and advance artificial intelligence solutions.
The agreement also clarifies the obligations of each participating party, emphasizing teamwork to “ensure compliance with legal and administrative guidelines, monitor partnership contracts, share knowledge on sustainability and infrastructure, conduct feasibility studies for new data centers, and provide operational support for upcoming projects.” Furthermore, the MoU underscores the importance of a sustainable, long-term strategic partnership built on innovation and well-defined roles.
Also in attendance during the signing ceremony were Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Department of Government Relations; Sheikh Saud bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department; and Hassan Yaqoub Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Media Council.
According to Mordor Intelligence, UAE’s data center market size in 2026 is estimated at US$ 1.74 billion, growing from 2025 value of US$ 1.48 billion, with 2031 projections showing USD 3.86 billion, growing at 17.33 percent CAGR over 2026-2031. In terms of IT load capacity, the market is expected to grow from 507.70 MW in 2025 to 675.80 MW by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.89 percent during the forecast period (2025-2030).