Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed’s visit to the White House emphasizes the UAE’s focus on artificial intelligence over the Israel-Gaza conflict, reflecting a strategic pivot in foreign policy. The UAE aims to deepen investments in technology with American partnerships, moving away from regional disputes, especially in contrast to its Gulf neighbors’ responses.
During Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed’s recent visit to the White House, the UAE emphasized its commitment to artificial intelligence (AI) over involvement in Israel’s conflict with Gaza, indicating a shift in its priorities under the Trump administration. Tahnoon, who serves as a national security advisor and plays multiple roles, highlighted intentions to invest in AI, technology, healthcare, and infrastructure during a dinner with President Trump.
Notably, Tahnoon’s discussions included strategies to deepen Emirati investments in AI, highlighting the UAE’s proactive approach in the sector. His previous endeavors included commissioning research from a George Washington University professor on AI’s future economic impacts, demonstrating his investment-focused mindset. As chairman of Abu Dhabi wealth funds valued at $1.4 trillion, he possesses significant resources to dedicate to AI development.
Amid restrictions on AI chip exports to the UAE imposed by the Biden administration, Tahnoon aimed to convince Trump to lift these barriers, asserting that the UAE is a critical ally in advancing AI rather than a potential liability. This reflects an evolving relationship with the U.S., as the UAE shifts towards prioritizing American technology over Chinese alternatives, fostering closer ties and a more significant influence on U.S. strategy.
The UAE has also solidified its financial commitments through ventures such as a $7 billion investment in an AI infrastructure plan initiated by Trump, and a subsequent pledge to partner with U.S. private equity to invest over $25 billion in energy projects to support data centers. These investments align the UAE more closely with U.S. interests.
Conversely, the UAE’s engagement has distanced it from its Gulf neighbors, particularly regarding the Gaza conflict, where the UAE refrained from publicly addressing the situation even as tensions escalated. While Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince publicly condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, the UAE has maintained its relations with Israel, lobbying against a reconstruction plan for Gaza that was advocated by Egypt and the Arab League. This illustrates a notable divergence in foreign policy among Arab states, reinforcing the UAE’s unique position in regional diplomacy.
The UAE’s recent emphasis on artificial intelligence during Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed’s visit to the U.S. highlights a strategic pivot away from regional conflicts, particularly the Gaza situation. This shift reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering American partnerships in technology while distancing itself from broader Arab sentiments. The substantial financial investments made underscore the UAE’s intention to assert its influence in both the AI sector and U.S.-Middle East relations, marking a significant evolution in its diplomatic strategy.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
