Rio de Janeiro’s government is looking to attract Saudi investments to establish a data center hub, including innovative underwater facilities. At the FII Priority event, dubbed the “Davos of the Desert,” officials revealed their plans. Mayor Eduardo Paes highlighted Rio’s suitability for data centers, citing the city’s business-friendly environment and incentives.
Yasir Al-Rumayyan, head of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, emphasized the increasing energy demands due to artificial intelligence. Mayor Paes discussed Rio’s coastal advantage for underwater data centers, which could reduce energy consumption significantly. These centers offer lower latency, enhanced security, and fewer server failures compared to traditional setups.
Rio Eyes Saudi Investment in Data Centers
Despite environmental regulations posing challenges, Paes expressed readiness to collaborate with investors to overcome obstacles. Rio’s global role is expanding, with a focus on attracting investments and leveraging its identity to enhance its appeal. The city’s solid track record in Public-Private Partnerships and concessions is seen as a promising sign for future growth and infrastructure development.
As the municipal elections approach, Mayor Paes remains dedicated to governance and attracting investments to propel Rio’s development, emphasizing the city’s potential for growth with favorable incentives.