The economic partnership between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the United States has grown into a dynamic and multifaceted relationship, driven by shared interests in innovation, sustainability, and global trade leadership. In recent years, the UAE has emerged as one of the United States’ most important trading partners in the Middle East. In 2024, bilateral non-oil trade reached $38 billion, marking a 44.5% increase over the past five years. The positive momentum has continued into 2025, with the first half of the year recording $19.3 billion in non-oil trade.


Key Drivers of the Partnership

Trade and Investment Growth

The UAE ranks as the United States’ sixth-largest trading partner worldwide. Emirati companies are increasingly investing in the U.S., creating new opportunities across industries. For example, Emirates Global Aluminium is investing $4 billion to build the first new aluminium smelter in the U.S. in nearly half a century. This project is expected to generate thousands of jobs while supporting U.S. manufacturing, including semiconductors and electric vehicles.

Collaboration in Technology and Clean Energy

High-level meetings between UAE officials and U.S. business leaders have reinforced the commitment to deepening trade and investment ties. Discussions have emphasized Emirati investments in U.S. clean energy projects and advanced manufacturing, showcasing the UAE’s dedication to innovation and sustainable development.

Advancements in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

A notable development in technological cooperation is the partnership between Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and U.S.-based chipmaker Nvidia. Together, they have established the Middle East’s first AI and robotics research lab. This initiative is designed to accelerate research and applications in artificial intelligence and robotics, highlighting the UAE’s ambition to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology.


Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

The UAE’s proactive approach to global trade, through initiatives such as Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), positions it as a resilient and diversified trade hub. These agreements help broaden the UAE’s trade portfolio and reduce vulnerability to global market fluctuations.

Looking forward, both the UAE and the U.S. are set to expand cooperation in areas such as technology, clean energy, and sustainable development. By leveraging the UAE’s strategic investments and the U.S.’s technological capabilities, the partnership aims to address global challenges while capturing new economic opportunities.


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