Phoenix Group Accelerates European AI Infrastructure with 18MW Data Center Partnership in Lyon
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Phoenix Group PLC (ADX: PHX), a global digital infrastructure operator and part of the IHC portfolio, has announced a strategic partnership with DC Max to establish its first European AI data center, an 18MW facility located in Lyon, France. This initiative marks a significant step in Phoenix’s ambition to develop a scalable framework targeting over 1GW of combined AI and high-performance computing (HPC) capacity across Europe and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Strategic Partnership and Development Timeline
The collaboration with DC Max, a French data center developer with a robust 1GW pipeline, grants Phoenix preferential access to development opportunities. This partnership aims to expedite Phoenix’s goal of establishing a substantial AI and HPC platform. Phoenix has already secured land for the Lyon site, complete with necessary permits and grid connections, allowing construction to commence in July 2026. The facility is expected to be operational between Q4 2027 and Q1 2028.
Addressing the Growing Demand for AI Compute
The demand for AI computing resources in Europe is rapidly outstripping supply, with enterprises and hyperscalers reserving capacity years in advance. Traditional development timelines, often spanning 36 to 48 months, hinder most operators from meeting market demands promptly. Lyon, as France’s second-largest city, offers a strategic advantage with its strong industrial base, reliable electrical infrastructure, and comparatively lower land costs than Paris.
DC Max’s established relationships for grid access and permitting, combined with Phoenix’s expertise in designing and building infrastructure efficiently, position the partnership to operate at a pace that exceeds typical European development timelines.
A Scalable Infrastructure Platform
The partnership with DC Max is designed as a repeatable development model rather than a one-off transaction. With a pipeline of over 1GW of opportunities valued at approximately $8 billion, DC Max brings significant expertise in site origination and permitting, while Phoenix contributes capital and operational scale. Together, they aim to create a long-term infrastructure platform capable of delivering AI-ready capacity swiftly across key European markets.
This initiative complements Phoenix’s existing 550MW of deployed capacity across the UAE, Oman, North America, and Ethiopia, reinforcing its ambition to become a leading global digital infrastructure operator.
Leadership Perspectives
Munaf Ali, Co-Founder and GCEO of Phoenix Group, emphasized the significance of this announcement, stating that it represents a pivotal moment for both Phoenix and Emirati companies on the global stage. He noted that establishing a presence in European AI infrastructure is crucial for contributing to the global AI economy and aligns with the UAE’s national AI ambitions.
Romain Fremont, CEO of DC Max, highlighted the operational scale and capital discipline that Phoenix brings to the partnership, which he believes has been long-awaited in the French data center development sector. He expressed confidence that this collaboration will enable them to advance their pipeline at a pace and scale previously unattainable.
Future Developments
Further announcements regarding the partnership and its developments are anticipated in 2026.
About Phoenix Group
Phoenix Group PLC (ADX: PHX), headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is a global digital infrastructure operator listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. The company operates over 550 MW of capacity across various regions, including the UAE, Oman, North America, East Africa, and Europe. Founded in 2017, Phoenix has built its foundation on operational discipline and energy expertise, initially through Bitcoin mining, and now serves AI and high-performance computing infrastructure globally.
About DC Max
DC Max is a data center investor, developer, and operator with a portfolio of approximately 2GW of capacity. The company delivers digital infrastructure solutions ranging from edge facilities to large campuses that support cloud, AI, and high-performance computing. Backed by a group with over €6 billion in investment experience, DC Max combines technical expertise with disciplined operational strategies.
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Published on 2026-05-13 10:51:00 • By the Editorial Desk
