In the UAE, where big goals and major investments drive tech growth, AI infrastructure is growing fast. National providers such as G42 are already running Artemis, a TOP500 supercomputer optimised for large-language-model training, while Khazna is building a 100 MW, liquid-cooled campus dedicated to AI workloads. These sites pack hundreds of GPUs per rack and push campus demand towards the 1 GW mark. With the private sector owning 89% of the country’s AI power, the UAE now faces surging demand for next-generation data centre infrastructure to keep pace.
But as spending rises and new builds speed up, there’s a common problem: how do you keep things organised inside these massive AI data centres?
With AI campuses pushing toward 1 gigawatt power usage and some projects costing up to $25 billion, even small cabling errors can turn into expensive headaches. Here are -five key infrastructure changes that help keep cables tidy, data moving, and future upgrades simple.
Use multi-fiber connectors
As AI demands more and more bandwidth, multi-fiber connectors are required for bandwidths from 800 G upwards. Using the technology of parallel data transmission, these connectors move more data without taking up extra room—in fact, they often use less space. That’s a big plus in UAE data centres, where space is tight and keeping things cool is a constant battle thanks to the high temperatures. Additionally, multi-fiber connectors for 16 fibers provide the best migration options to the next bandwidth generations
These connectors make the setup simpler, scale better for future needs, and save time during installation. They also lower the risk of mistakes during handling, key for keeping fast-paced AI projects on track.
Try a mesh layout
Reduce patch cords, improve redundancy
A mesh layout swaps out the old-school straight-line cabling for a more connected, web-like setup. The benefit? Fewer patch cords and easier redundancy. It’s easier to manage, improves airflow, and is better suited to hot environments like the UAE.
With a mesh layout, tech teams can trace connections quickly, avoid cable clutter, and cut down on accidental unplugs. It also helps prevent physical damage during maintenance, making the whole system cleaner and more reliable.
Pick ultra-low-loss optical links
Leave headroom for future upgrades
As AI systems get faster, keeping signal quality high becomes a must. Ultra-low-loss optical links help by cutting down on signal loss across long distances, so your setup can handle future upgrades without needing a full overhaul. It also enables more flexible cabling architectures as the ultra-low loss feature allows more connectors per links.
With GPU demand expected to rise by 35% each year through 2027, and the global AI hardware market heading toward $990 billion, UAE data centres need to be ready. These high-performance links provide the speed and stability to grow at that scale.
Add a dedicated overhead tray
Protect and organise your fiber investments
Overhead trays are a simple but effective way to keep fiber cables safe, tidy, and off the floor. They make it easier to troubleshoot and expand, which is huge for fast-growing UAE data centres that are stretching beyond their original layouts.
By lifting cables away from power lines, these trays help reduce interference and keep signal quality sharp. Such a controlled environment for fiber optic cables ensures the system performance according the design by offering physical protection and bend radius control. In high-density setups where cable mess can be a real issue, this small upgrade can make a big difference.
Partner with experts to minimise risk
Expanding or building an AI-ready data centre doesn’t have to feel like a massive challenge. With the right approach, like using multi-fiber connectors, mesh layouts, ultra-low-loss links, and overhead trays, you can keep things organised and future-ready.
For data centre teams in the UAE, teaming up with seasoned experts can make a big difference. Smart infrastructure choices now will make it easier to handle whatever AI throws your way down the road.
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