The strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the United States has flourished over more than five decades, characterized by coordination and cooperation across various sectors. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the National Security Advisor of the UAE, arrived in the United States on March 17, 2025, marking another significant step to bolster relationships between the two nations.
This visit is part of the UAE's commitment to strengthen dialogues and communications, aiming to serve both countries' interests. The UAE stands out as one of the United States' foremost partners not only in the region but globally, emphasizing their mutual dedication to regional and global security, economic prosperity, and addressing worldwide challenges.
The UAE and the US have laid out strong foundations for long-term cooperation, particularly evident through innovative partnerships spanning new technological territories, including artificial intelligence, food security, clean energy, and space exploration. These sectors are expected to be focal points during Sheikh Tahnoon's discussions with US officials.
Historically, the UAE's ties with the US have centered on mutual efforts to promote peace and security within the Gulf region and combat extremism. The relationship has steadily advanced, highlighted by significant growth in bilateral trade, economic cooperation, and cultural partnerships. The UAE's investments abroad, especially within the US, demonstrate the deepening economic ties between the two nations.
During the visit, Sheikh Tahnoon is expected to engage on various topics, including supporting stability, security, and peace, with clarity focusing on advanced technology and artificial intelligence. Notably, discussions on tackling global challenges and increasing trade dynamics will also be considered.
According to reports, the value of non-oil trade between the UAE and the US approaches $40 billion, evidencing the strong commercial relationship. Recent data revealed non-oil trade rose by 9.47%, reaching $34.43 billion (126.46 billion AED) in 2024 compared to $31.45 billion (115.51 billion AED) the previous year.
The UAE's foreign investments are equally impressive, as it has committed around $3.7 billion to the United States between 2018 and 2023. Simultaneously, US investments in the UAE were approximately $9.5 billion. Such figures not only reflect significant economic cooperation but also the shared goal of ensuring enduring strategic partnerships.
Both nations have worked hand-in-hand to support clean energy initiatives and seek sustainable and reliable methods for energy consumption, significantly emphasizing alternatives to fossil fuels. The UAE has pledged to develop natural gas alternatives and carbon capture technologies to mitigate emissions effectively. With over $70 billion invested by the UAE within the US energy sector, collaboration continues to thrive.
A comprehensive educational cooperation framework has been established, where American universities attract increasing numbers of Emirati students. Institutions like New York University Abu Dhabi bolster educational exchanges, enhancing mutual cultural understandings through various programs aimed at fostering cooperative research, especially within technology and renewable energy sectors.
The UAE's Hope Probe mission to Mars, launched in 2021, stands as testimony to the scientific collaboration between the UAE and the US, showcasing effective partnerships for space exploration. Plans are underway for the UAE’s next expedition to the asteroid belt, conducted alongside the University of Colorado Boulder, continuing the momentum of cooperative scientific inquiry.
Your concluded remarks may highlight how the UAE and US relations represent not just diplomatic engagements but as successful models for strategic collaboration built on shared interests. These interactions showcase mutual respect and commitment to strengthening ties, ensuring both nations' stability and prosperity moving forward.
Sheikh Tahnoon's visit opens doors toward new possibilities, revitalizing areas such as advanced technology and sustainable energy solutions, promising to significantly benefit both the UAE and the US. Through continued investment and unwavering partnerships, both nations look to leverage modern innovations and cultural exchanges to face shared global challenges effectively.
