A new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the USA and UAE on Monday is being hailed by industry experts and analysts as a move that will enable the growth of both countries’ burgeoning AI industry.
Following discussions between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, an agreement on a government-to-government MoU underscored promoting safe, secure, and trustworthy AI technologies, while addressing associated challenges and risks.
As part of the agreement, both nations intend to align regulatory frameworks, foster ethical AI research, enhance cybersecurity, and support bilateral investment, with an emphasis on sustainable development and clean energy solutions.
Chloe Cornish and Andrew England from the Financial Times said that the agreement, and the historic visit itself, were a sign that Abu Dhabi was prioritising its position in the global AI race and that this prioritisation had reinvigorated the longstanding relationship between the two countries.
“AI has brought new energy to the relationship,” they wrote on Tuesday, adding that Abu Dhabi has taken a strategic decision to work with US companies producing cutting-edge technology.
The MoU was welcomed by a litany of companies including Abu Dhabi’s G42 and subsidiary “Presight” which said that they were proud to see the US and UAE reinforce their strategic partnership in AI.
The move comes amid deepening ties between AI and tech companies in the two countries.
This includes a $100 million partnership between MGX, Microsoft and Blackrock for data centres in Abu Dhabi as well last week’s agreement between Abu Dhabi-based G42, and Nvidia, the US company that makes chips critical for AI, on a new climate initiative.
Nidal Bitar, the CEO of the ICT Association of Jordan, said that Abu Dhabi was becoming a global hub for AI, and said the city and countries partnerships alongside its infrastructure and talent had been foundational to its success.
“Partnerships with global leaders like Microsoft and Nvidia are crucial. These collaborations bring cutting-edge AI technology, expertise, and innovation to the region, accelerating digital transformation and making advanced AI tools more accessible,” he told Aletihad.
“Abu Dhabi’s investment in AI will create ripple effects across the wider region, fostering innovation, attracting talent, and driving economic growth in neighbouring countries as AI becomes more integrated into key sectors.”
