The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is actively seeking enhanced access to U.S. semiconductor technology to bolster its burgeoning technology sector. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s National Security Adviser and brother to the President, plans to visit Washington to advocate for eased restrictions on U.S. chip technology exports. During his visit, Sheikh Tahnoon is expected to engage with key U.S. officials, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz.
This initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic objective to diversify its economy by developing a robust advanced technology industry. However, the U.S. has expressed concerns regarding the UAE’s close ties with China, which could pose challenges to the UAE’s efforts to secure advanced U.S. technologies.
In December 2024, the U.S. government approved the export of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chips to a Microsoft-operated facility in the UAE. This approval was part of Microsoft’s collaboration with the Emirati AI firm G42, reflecting a cautious yet positive step towards technological cooperation between the two nations.
The UAE’s pursuit of advanced U.S. technology underscores its ambition to position itself as a leader in the AI and technology sectors, while navigating the complexities of international relations and export controls.
