Synapsia-AI Signs $2.5 Billion Abu Dhabi Smart City Deal
Synapsia-AI, a Milan-based artificial intelligence company, has secured a $2.5 billion contract with Abu Dhabi’s Bold Technologies to provide AI-powered city management services for Abu Dhabi. The agreement was signed on March 3, 2024, following the state visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Italy.
This deal is part of a cognitive city project aimed at using advanced technologies to address urban challenges such as transportation, parking, and emergency response systems. Synapsia and Bold Technologies plan to form a new joint venture called My Aion Inc., which is expected to be listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) between 2027 and 2029.
The cognitive city deal aligns with Abu Dhabi’s ambitious plans to leverage AI and emerging technologies to enhance public services. In January, the government announced the Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy, a $3.4 billion initiative aimed at creating the first fully AI-native government by 2027.
Synapsia will implement its cognitive solutions across Abu Dhabi’s urban infrastructure, with the contract value paid in five instalments over 18 months, tied to specific project milestones. The company’s technology aims to transform urban management from disconnected data silos into an autonomous, self-learning network capable of optimizing infrastructure, transportation, and energy use in real-time.
Synapsia is the developer of Maia, described as the first Cognitive Operating System that goes beyond traditional AI by understanding scenarios, creating strategies, and making independent decisions.
Bold Technologies, part of Bold Holding, is chaired by Major General Sheikh Mohammed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Director General of Abu Dhabi Police. The company specializes in delivering high-level security solutions using cutting-edge technology and international standards.
This deal comes one week after the UAE committed to investing $40 billion in Italy, as part of over 40 agreements signed across multiple sectors, with a focus on artificial intelligence, advanced technologies, space exploration, and renewable energy.
