
Qatar Bets Big on US AI: $500 Million Databricks Investment Highlights Strategic Partnership
Qatar's Investment Fund Sees US as Natural AI Partner: CEO DOHA, QATAR – May 28, 2025 – The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds, is significantly increasing its investment in the US artificial intelligence sector, according to its CEO, Mohammed Al Sowaidi. In an interview at the Qatar Economic Forum, Al Sowaidi described the US as a "natural partner" for Qatar in AI development. "We're investing a lot in the US, extensively," Al Sowaidi stated. He explained that QIA's strategy involves making early investments to secure advantageous terms, adding, "Because when you do things early, you have the ability to negotiate better terms." This long-term perspective has led to significant holdings in US data centers and AI-related companies. A recent example of this strategy is QIA's $500 million investment in Databricks, a leading data analytics company. This investment underscores QIA's confidence in the US AI market and its commitment to long-term growth. Al Sowaidi also praised US policies that encourage foreign investment, noting their role in attracting global capital. The QIA's substantial investments in the US AI sector represent a significant vote of confidence in the country's technological leadership and its potential for future innovation.