Abu Dhabi to Launch World's First AI-Powered Cognitive City

Aion Sentia, the world’s first AI cognitive city, is set to rise in Abu Dhabi by 2027—and it’s way more than just another “smart city.”

This futuristic metropolis will use artificial intelligence to learn, evolve, and actually think alongside its residents. From booking your anniversary dinner to managing your electricity bill, this city is all about hyper-personalized, zero-effort living.

The groundbreaking project, developed under a $2.5 billion Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) deal, is a partnership between Abu Dhabi-based Bold Technologies and Italian AI company My Aion Inc.

A Smarter-Than-Smart City

Unlike traditional smart cities, Aion Sentia won’t just collect data—it’ll understand it. “This city will not just be smart; it will be cognitive — learning and evolving with its residents,” said Daniele Marinelli, CEO of My Aion Inc.

At the heart of it all is MAIA, an AI-powered app that connects citizens to every city service imaginable—think public transport, smart home systems, healthcare support, and even personalized recommendations, all in one place.

MAIA is built on a “Personal Profile Graph,” learning from your interactions to customize your experience. Imagine asking your phone to plan your date night, book a table, call a driver, and adjust your AC before you get home—and it just does it.

From Power Bills to Public Safety—All in One App

Aion Sentia’s digital nervous system will span across transportation, energy, education, and emergency services. MAIA doesn’t just respond—it reasons. Want to lower your power bill? MAIA will analyze your usage and suggest smarter energy habits. Expecting a storm? Sensors across the city will update you in real time.

Why Abu Dhabi?

Marinelli praised the UAE capital for being a global leader in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity. “Here, people are not just open to innovation; they embrace it,” he said. That forward-thinking mindset makes Abu Dhabi the ideal birthplace for a globally scalable idea.

Born in Abu Dhabi, Made for the World

The tech won’t stay local for long. After Aion Sentia rolls out in the UAE, the plan is to go global. “Born in Abu Dhabi, exported to the world,” Marinelli emphasized. Cities in Europe and the US are already on the radar for expansion.

Fueling Jobs and Innovation in the UAE

Thani Al Thani Al Falasi, CEO of Bold Technologies, sees Aion Sentia as more than just a tech leap. “This initiative will support job creation for UAE nationals, foster local innovation, and contribute meaningfully to the national AI ecosystem,” he said.

The Future Is a Swipe Away

Aion Sentia is set to begin rollout in 18 months, and by 2027, it could very well change the way we think about cities forever. Personalized living is no longer a fantasy—it’s the blueprint.