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Nvidia's Free AI Model and UAE's Shifting Alliances

Nvidia's hardware is central to the UAE's AI ambitions, and the company is now offering free AI models. This move impacts the UAE's strategic positioning between the U.S. and China.

Nvidia's upcoming free AI model, developed by Poolside, is set for release by year-end. It targets users of Nvidia hardware, including the UAE, which plans to use 400,000 Nvidia chips. This follows the UAE's closer alignment with the U.S., with G42 cutting ties with China for Nvidia chips.

The UAE developed its own models like Falcon to avoid foreign software reliance. Nvidia's model presents a choice: build sovereign models or use existing tech. TII favors in-house building for control, while G42 seems open to Nvidia's approach.

Experts suggest AI sovereignty can be achieved through fine-tuning and deployment control, not just building foundational models. The U.S. has strengthened tech ties with the UAE after G42's divestment from Chinese firms.

Nvidia's move counters China's dominance in free AI models. By offering Nemotron, Nvidia aims to be the preferred base for AI development, complementing its hardware strength.

Saudi Arabia, a regional competitor, uses Nvidia chips but commissioned an Arabic AI model from China, also claiming in-house models. This shows a hedging strategy using international partners.

TII states that embracing external advancements doesn't preclude domestic development, allowing integration of superior external tech while building their own foundation.

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