UAE Partners with OpenAI, But Not Everyone Gets Free ChatGPT Plus

A recent collaboration between OpenAI and the United Arab Emirates has stirred excitement across the tech world, with social media abuzz over claims that all UAE residents would soon get free access to ChatGPT Plus — the premium version of OpenAI’s popular chatbot.

However, a fact-check reveals a more nuanced reality.

Earlier this month, OpenAI confirmed that the UAE will become the first country to enable nationwide access to ChatGPT. This initiative is part of a larger strategic vision to incorporate AI tools into education, healthcare, government services, and more.

Contrary to popular belief, OpenAI has not announced that ChatGPT Plus — which includes access to GPT-4 and other advanced features — will be free for the general public. The current subscription cost of $20/month remains unchanged.

This confusion likely stems from misleading headlines and social media interpretations of the announcement, which is actually part of the broader Stargate UAE initiative — a multibillion-dollar project to create the world’s largest AI-centric data centre in Abu Dhabi.

The facility, covering 10 square miles, is being built in partnership with G42, Oracle, NVIDIA, and Cisco, and is expected to be operational by 2026. It will draw power from nuclear, solar, and gas sources and serve as a key AI infrastructure hub for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

While residents may not get free access to ChatGPT Plus, AI tools are expected to be embedded within various public sector systems, meaning UAE citizens will likely interact with ChatGPT-powered tools in daily life — especially in education, public services, and healthcare.

Experts see the move as a strategic step in cementing the UAE’s place as a global AI leader. “This isn’t just about giving individuals free tools — it’s about AI sovereignty, infrastructure, and long-term vision,” said one regional analyst.

This is also OpenAI’s first such venture outside the United States, underscoring the importance of the UAE in shaping the global AI roadmap.