Latest news with #Esri
The National
20 hours ago
- Business
- The National
UAE's Space42 teams up with Microsoft and Esri to build Africa's most detailed map
An initiative by UAE space technology company Space42 aims to create the most detailed map of Africa, helping to drive the continent's economic growth by the development of smart cities, digital economies and boosting industries such as agriculture. The Map Africa Initiative aims to chart all 54 African countries using satellite data and artificial intelligence, to help governments, businesses and communities to make more informed decisions. The five-year project is being carried out in partnership with Microsoft and geospatial company Esri. Jack Dangermond, president of Esri, said transforming satellite imagery into detailed maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology. 'These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world,' he said. 'With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth and sustainable development across the continent.' How will the map be created? The initiative will rely on Space42's satellites, Microsoft's cloud platform Azure to store and process data and Esri's advanced mapping software. Space42 will supply satellite imagery through its own satellites and from commercial partners. This raw data will be processed using AI-powered Digital Twin technology, a virtual representation of real-world locations, developed by Space42. Esri, which has decades of experience in mapping technology, will use it to help create the main maps by analysing the satellite images. It will also help to train local teams across Africa to manage and update the data in the long term. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure through its Azure platform, allowing for high-speed processing, storage and sharing of large amounts of data. The maps created will be licensed to national governments, giving them control over future updates. The data will eventually be stored in African data centres managed by Microsoft and UAE's G42, the parent company of Space42. How mapping projects help countries Mapping initiatives have benefitted other countries, including India, where a nationwide project that started in 2015 helped to improve disaster management by providing real-time data during floods and cyclones. In Rwanda, high-resolution satellite maps were used to modernise agriculture by helping farmers better manage land, water and crops. In Indonesia, updated geospatial data has been helpful in reducing the impact of tsunamis and earthquakes. Local agencies use the data to plan evacuation routes and identify high-risk zones. Existing maps in many African countries are either outdated, incomplete or are unavailable, which makes infrastructure development, planning internet networks or managing disaster difficult. Economic boost for Africa Space42 said governments will be able to use the new maps to build smart cities, monitor borders, deploy solar and wind farms in the most efficient locations and respond more effectively to emergencies. The data will also support a new generation of African tech startups, which can build services using geospatial data. 'Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper,' said Hasan Al Hosani, chief executive of smart solutions at Space42. The UAE was the largest foreign investor in Africa in 2024 with $44 billion. Space42, which trades on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), was formed last year when UAE satellite company Yahsat merged with AI and mapping firm Bayanat.
Channel Post MEA
2 days ago
- Business
- Channel Post MEA
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri To Enhance Mapping Capabilities Across Africa
Space42, the UAE-based global AI-powered SpaceTech company, part of technology group G42, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft and Esri to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps across all 54 African countries, serving over 1.4 billion people. Known as the 'Map Africa Initiative,' the project will create the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date, addressing challenges in infrastructure, investment, and institutional gaps. The updated mapping system will catalyse economic development through increased access to intelligent solutions that support governments, businesses, and communities. The five-year collaboration aims to strengthen geospatial capabilities across Africa and the UAE and provide precise and accessible data to national and regional stakeholders. The MoU was signed at Esri's 2025 User Conference. Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42, said, 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.' Jack Dangermond, President of Esri said, 'We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.' A transformative investment in Africa's digital future Africa's maps are fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate and incomplete data. The Map Africa Initiative seeks to change that by producing continent-wide geospatial data that is accurate, timely, and locally managed. The process itself is collaborative from start to finish, bringing together the complementary strengths of each organisation. Space42 will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data through sovereign capacities and commercial partners. It will process data using AI-powered Digital Twin models to produce dynamic, use-specific outputs and lead the Research & Development roadmap for new AI models and automation of map production workflows. Esri will orchestrate base map production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at scale. Enabling economic opportunity, resilience, and innovation The initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple industries: Ports and logistics: Detailed terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning, reduce inefficiencies, and support Africa's emergence as a global logistics hub. Renewable energy: Site selection models will support optimal solar and wind deployment, improving efficiency and return on investment. Security and disaster response: Governments will be better equipped to monitor borders, track natural resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps are foundational to urban planning, public services, and technology deployment. The data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping Agencies. Over time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centres across the continent. Strategic positioning for Space42 For Space42, the initiative represents more than a single project. It deepens long-standing partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, expands Space42's presence in Africa, and opens new commercial opportunities in analytics, licensing, and infrastructure support. The Map Africa Initiative is a testament to Space42's position as the global partner of choice for governments seeking geospatial data at scale, serving as both a strategic proof point and a commercial gateway to new markets. Peng Xiao, Group Chief Executive Officer at G42, said, 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimisation and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.' 'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.' The initiative further pushes the limits of how technological innovation can advance communities and unlock economic opportunities. Aligning with the UAE's Global Investment and Innovation Agenda The UAE is Africa's largest foreign investor, with $44 billion in capital deployed in 2024 alone, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space champion, Space42 advances this agenda by exporting AI and geospatial capabilities that enable data-driven development. By expanding the UAE's space ecosystem and fostering knowledge transfer across industries, Space42's geospatial mapping capabilities play a crucial role in building a future-ready, innovation-driven economy in both the UAE and Africa. For African countries, the mapping capabilities enable smarter land use, improved disaster response, modern infrastructure planning, and the foundations for smart cities and digital economies. For the UAE, this strategic engagement opens high-growth markets, deepens diplomatic and commercial ties, and consolidates its role as a global leader in AI-enabled space solutions.
Gulf Business
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Space42, Microsoft, Esri to expand mapping capabilities across Africa
Image: Supplied UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech firm The five-year initiative, called the 'Map Africa Initiative', aims to support more than 1.4 billion people by improving access to geospatial data and intelligent solutions across the continent. Announced at the 2025 Esri User Conference, the partnership will address long-standing gaps in infrastructure, investment and data availability by producing the continent's most comprehensive mapping database to date. The effort is designed to catalyze economic development through improved information flow to governments, businesses and communities. 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates,' said Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Esri president Jack Dangermond said, 'We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows.' How Space42, Esri and Microsoft will fill the mapping gap Africa's maps are often fragmented, outdated or inaccessible, leaving key decision-makers without accurate data. The Map Africa Initiative aims to change that by generating continent-wide geospatial data that is timely, accurate and managed locally. Space42 will lead the project's fundraising and coordination, provide satellite data, and use AI-powered digital twin models to process and tailor outputs. It will also drive the R&D roadmap for AI models and automated map production. Esri will oversee base map production using its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while helping train local teams to sustain mapping efforts in the long term. Microsoft will provide cloud infrastructure and AI support through its Azure platform to enable large-scale data sharing and processing. Sector-wide impact The mapping initiative is expected to benefit several key industries, including: Ports and logistics: Enhanced terrain mapping will support route planning and reduce inefficiencies. Renewable energy: Improved site selection for solar and wind projects. Security and disaster response: Better monitoring of borders and natural resources, improved emergency response coordination. Smart cities: Foundational data for urban planning, service delivery and digital economy growth. The mapping data will be licensed to national governments, with local agencies responsible for long-term updates. A commercial ecosystem is expected to emerge, powered by African startups, with data hosted in G42 and Microsoft-managed centres across the continent. Strategic importance For Space42, the MoU strengthens existing ties with Microsoft and Esri, expands its footprint in Africa, and opens new revenue streams in analytics and licensing. It also reinforces Space42's positioning as a key partner for governments in delivering scalable geospatial data solutions. 'This partnership is a decisive step toward closing the intelligence gap,' said Peng Xiao, group CEO of G42. 'Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably.' Xiao added that the collaboration with Microsoft highlights a joint commitment to leveraging AI responsibly to benefit underserved communities. UAE's growing footprint The initiative aligns with the UAE's broader strategic interests. The UAE was Africa's largest foreign investor in 2024, with $44bn in capital deployed, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space entity, Space42 plays a key role in exporting data-driven development tools and fostering knowledge transfer between the UAE and Africa. The effort supports the UAE's ambitions to lead in AI-enabled space solutions, while creating new opportunities across both regions in areas like infrastructure, smart cities and public services.
Gulf Business
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri launch initiative to digitally map all of Africa
Image: Getty Images Space42, the UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company under technology group G42, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft and Esri to launch the Map Africa Initiative, a groundbreaking effort to produce the most comprehensive base map of the African continent. The project will span all 54 African countries and serve more than 1.4 billion people, delivering high-resolution, scalable maps designed to close infrastructure, investment, and institutional data gaps. The initiative, which was unveiled during Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42, commented: 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.' The mapping process will be a fully integrated effort among the three partners. Space42 will lead the initiative's fundraising, project management, and data provision through sovereign and commercial satellite sources. It will apply AI-powered Digital Twin models to process the data and deliver dynamic, sector-specific outputs, while also driving the research and development agenda for new AI models and automation technologies in map production. Jack Dangermond, Esri and Hasan Al Hosani, Space42 Esri will manage the base map production workflows by leveraging its GeoAI and remote sensing tools. The company will also support the establishment of regional hubs across Africa to train local talent and build long-term capacity. Meanwhile, Microsoft will provide secure cloud infrastructure and an AI framework through Azure, enabling the seamless processing, sharing, and integration of data at scale. Read: Jack Dangermond, president of Esri, said: 'We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.' The Map Africa Initiative The Map Africa Initiative responds to widespread concerns over fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible geospatial data across Africa. By producing accurate, timely, and locally managed mapping solutions, the project seeks to enable more effective land use, disaster response, and infrastructure planning. The data will be licensed to national governments, allowing long-term maintenance and updates by local mapping agencies. In parallel, the initiative is expected to stimulate a new ecosystem of African startups working with geospatial analytics and AI solutions. For Space42, the initiative marks a strategic expansion into Africa, reinforcing its role as a preferred partner for governments in need of advanced geospatial capabilities. It also unlocks commercial opportunities in data licensing, infrastructure support, and analytics services, positioning the company for long-term growth in new markets. Peng Xiao, group chief executive officer at G42, said: 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimization and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.' He added: 'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.' The initiative also aligns closely with the UAE's strategic investment agenda in Africa. With $44bn invested in 2024 alone, the UAE remains the continent's largest foreign investor. By exporting AI and space-enabled technologies through platforms like Space42, the UAE is reinforcing its leadership in digital transformation, supporting both its own innovation goals and those of partner nations across the Global South. As the project moves forward, data generated from Map Africa will be hosted in Microsoft and G42-managed data centers across the continent, ensuring accessibility and sovereignty for local stakeholders. In doing so, the initiative is expected to deliver meaningful progress on the ground—transforming the way African nations manage resources, deliver services, and chart a more connected, intelligent future.
Mid East Info
2 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Enhance Mapping Capabilities Across Africa
MoU will support the 'Map Africa Initiative,' a program designed to create a continent-wide base map and increase access to intelligent solutions Over the next five years, the initiative will map 54 African countries and benefit over 1.4 billion people The detailed mapping will support economic growth across the continent Abu Dhabi, UAE, July, 2025 – Space42 ADX: SPACE42 , the UAE-based global AI-powered SpaceTech company, part of technology group G42, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft and Esri to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps across all 54 African countries, serving over 1.4 billion people. Known as the 'Map Africa Initiative,' the project will create the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date, addressing challenges in infrastructure, investment, and institutional gaps. The updated mapping system will catalyze economic development through increased access to intelligent solutions that support governments, businesses, and communities. The five-year collaboration aims to strengthen geospatial capabilities across Africa and the UAE, and provide precise and accessible data to national and regional stakeholders. The MoU was signed at Esri's 2025 User Conference. Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42, said, 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.' Jack Dangermond, President of Esri said, 'We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.' A Transformative Investment in Africa's Digital Future Africa's maps are fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate and incomplete data. The Map Africa Initiative seeks to change that by producing continent-wide geospatial data that is accurate, timely, and locally managed. The process itself is collaborative from start to finish, bringing together the complementary strengths of each organization. Space42 will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data through sovereign capacities and commercial partners. It will process data using AI-powered Digital Twin models to produce dynamic, use-specific outputs and lead the Research & Development roadmap for new AI models and automation of map production workflows. Esri will orchestrate base map production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at scale. Enabling Economic Opportunity, Resilience, and Innovation The initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple industries: Ports and logistics: Detailed terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning, reduce inefficiencies, and support Africa's emergence as a global logistics hub. Renewable energy: Site selection models will support optimal solar and wind deployment, improving efficiency and return on investment. Security and disaster response: Governments will be better equipped to monitor borders, track natural resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps are foundational to urban planning, public services, and technology deployment. The data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping Agencies. Over time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centers across the continent. Strategic positioning for Space42 For Space42, the initiative represents more than a single project. It deepens long-standing partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, expands Space42's presence in Africa, and opens new commercial opportunities in analytics, licensing, and infrastructure support. The Map Africa Initiative is a testament to Space42's position as the global partner of choice for governments seeking geospatial data at scale, serving as both a strategic proof point and a commercial gateway to new markets. Peng Xiao, Group Chief Executive Officer at G42, said, 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimization and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.' 'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.' The initiative further pushes the limits of how technological innovation can advance communities and unlock economic opportunities. Aligning with the UAE's Global Investment and Innovation Agenda: The UAE is Africa's largest foreign investor, with $44 billion in capital deployed in 2024 alone, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space champion, Space42 advances this agenda by exporting AI and geospatial capabilities that enable data-driven development. By expanding the UAE's space ecosystem and fostering knowledge transfer across industries, Space42's geospatial mapping capabilities play a crucial role in building a future-ready, innovation-driven economy in both the UAE and Africa. For African countries, the mapping capabilities enable smarter land use, improved disaster response, modern infrastructure planning, and the foundations for smart cities and digital economies. For the UAE, this strategic engagement opens high-growth markets, deepens diplomatic and commercial ties, and consolidates its role as a global leader in AI-enabled space solutions. About Space42: Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Formed in 2024 by the successful merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42's global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Space42 comprises two business units: Space Services and Smart Solutions. Space Services focuses on upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobile satellite services. Smart Solutions integrates geospatial data acquisition and processing with AI to inform decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Major shareholders include G42, Mubadala, and IHC. Legal Notice and Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking information This announcement may include forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and projections about future events. These statements may include, without limitation, words such as 'expect', 'will', 'looking ahead' and any other words and terms of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company and its subsidiaries and its investments and speak only as of the date of this announcement. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions of future events and information currently available to the Company which may not prove to be accurate, and the Company does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy or fairness thereof and expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward looking statement. No representation or warranty is made that any forward-looking statement will come to pass. You are therefore cautioned not to place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither this announcement nor anything contained herein constitutes a financial promotion, or an invitation or inducement to acquire or sell securities in any jurisdiction.
