Key Takeaways
- AMD, Cisco, and Saudi startup Humain form AI data center joint venture
- Luma AI secured as first customer for entire 100-megawatt capacity
- Plans target up to 1 gigawatt of data centers by 2030 across multiple regions
Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Cisco Systems, and Saudi artificial intelligence firm Humain have launched a joint venture to construct data centers in the Middle East, securing their first major client in a significant market expansion.
The partnership will begin with a 100-megawatt data center project in Saudi Arabia, with generative video startup Luma AI contracting for the entire computing capacity. “They will be the first customer of this cluster,” confirmed Humain CEO Tareq Amin.
Joint Venture Structure and Leadership
AMD and Cisco will serve as minority shareholders in the venture, sharing in profits and losses while Humain takes the lead role. “We will together really have responsibility for ensuring that it’s successful,” stated AMD CEO Lisa Su.
The collaboration builds on previous agreements made during President Donald Trump’s May visit to Riyadh, with further developments expected as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with Trump in Washington.
Market Scope and Expansion Plans
The joint venture targets a massive market spanning Asia, Europe, India, the Middle East, and Africa—representing approximately 4.5 billion people. The ambitious roadmap includes developing up to one gigawatt of new data center capacity by 2030.
For the initial 100-megawatt phase, Cisco will supply networking equipment and infrastructure while AMD provides its MI450 AI chips. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026 and will operate entirely on renewable energy.
Sales Strategy and Support
Cisco will leverage its extensive sales expertise to help market capacity in the planned data centers. CEO Chuck Robbins noted the company’s “25-year history of putting together incentives for its sales teams” to support Humain’s sales efforts.
The venture benefits from backing by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, which supports Humain’s data center expansion plans due to the country’s abundant property and affordable power resources.
