The economic relationship between Italy and the United Arab Emirates has reached new heights with the recent signing of a landmark $2.5 billion contract. Synapsia, an Italian firm specializing in artificial intelligence (AI), will collaborate with Bold Technologies from the UAE to implement innovative AI solutions aimed at transforming urban management practices within Abu Dhabi.
This ambitious project seeks to move beyond the conventional smart city concept.. and is focused on accelerating the development of what are termed ‘cognitive cities’. The initiative not only aims to improve the efficiency of urban services but also to integrate AI technology deeply within the infrastructure of Abu Dhabi. Daniele Marinelli, CEO of Synapsia, expressed the significance of the deal by stating, "With this agreement, our vision begins to become reality. This result is a global recognition of Synapsia's leadership in AI."
The agreement, officially signed on March 3, 2025, entails the development of AI applications focused on enhancing traffic management, emergency service response management, and parking solutions. Under this strategic partnership, the project will leverage the innovative framework known as Maia, which is intended to create self-learning networks capable of real-time optimization of urban services. Stefano Mancuso, COO and co-founder of Synapsia, highlighted, "The technology of Maia will be applied to all systems and services usually available to citizens," pointing to its expansive role within city management.
Notably, the deal follows closely after the UAE’s announcement on February 24, 2025, about significant investments totaling $40 billion earmarked for various sectors within Italy, thereby reinforcing the growing ties between the two nations. Eleonora Ardemagni, Senior Researcher at ISPI, commented on this trend, noting, "The cooperation between Italy and the UAE is on the rise." This agreement not only signifies advancements within the technology sector but also epitomizes the strengthening bilateral relations and shared goals of both countries.
The financing structure of the project involves payments split across five installments over 18 months, contingent on meeting specified milestones throughout the development process. This careful approach aims to manage risk effectively as this multi-billion-dollar initiative aims to reshape the urban experience of Abu Dhabi.
A significant aspect of this collaboration is the contemplated formation of My Aion Inc., which is intended to be publicly listed on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange through an Initial Public Offering (IPO) between 2027 and 2029. This potential IPO embodies the aspirations of both Synapsia and Bold Technologies to not only establish lasting infrastructure within Abu Dhabi but also contribute to the broader economic narrative linking Italy and the UAE.
The advancements underlined by this collaboration also come against the background of the UAE’s longer-term strategy to shift reliance from hydrocarbon-based revenues, prioritizing innovation, technology, and sustainability. The successful application of AI technologies is integral to this strategy and reflects the UAE's ambitions, especially as it competes with neighboring nations like Qatar and Saudi Arabia for leadership within the growing tech sector.
Marinelli reiterated this vision, stating, "We are not just improving AI, we are reinventing it to make it more efficient, scalable, and sustainable." Such ambitions are significant, as data management solutions and intelligent infrastructure stand to create enhanced living conditions for residents, all driven by advanced technologies.
These developments take on greater significance when viewed within the current global climate, where the competitive race to innovate is fierce and fast-evolving. The UAE has been joining forces with various companies around the world, establishing its presence as both partner and leader within the AI sector.
For its part, Italy is positioning itself as not just a beneficiary of Emirati investments but also as an active participant within this global shift toward technological integration. By aligning with the UAE, Italy is making strides to mitigate potential geopolitical tensions and to advocate for innovation as a keystone of international cooperation.
The partnership between Synapsia and Bold Technologies reflects broader trends, with the pressing need for cities across the globe to adopt smart solutions, especially as urban populations continue to expand. With municipal infrastructure being transformed through AI, there exists the potential for more sustainable and livable cities—a reality both nations are striving toward.
Looking forward, the world will be watching closely as these developed technologies move from concept to implementation, with significant ramifications expected for how urban management is conducted. This initiative promises to set benchmarks, both for Italy and the UAE, as they navigate their respective roles within the international community focused on sustainable urban development.