New Delhi, Nov. 2 -- Sam Altman had a packed weekend, travelling between South Korea and the UAE as OpenAI looked to strengthen ties with some of the biggest names in technology and finance. From meeting Samsung and SK Group bosses in Seoul to striking new AI deals in Abu Dhabi, the OpenAI CEO is making moves to bring more companies on board and attract fresh investment as the race to dominate AI heats up.

The developments come as OpenAI seeks to raise $20 billion from investors, including those in the Middle East.

Altman made an unannounced visit to South Korea over the weekend, meeting senior executives from Samsung and SK Group as OpenAI looks to deepen its relationships with two of the world's leading semiconductor businesses.

Sams...