According to a report by Bloomberg News on Thursday, a senior official from the United Arab Emirates is set to visit Washington to advocate for expanded access to American technology and discuss potential investments in the U.S.
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE's national security adviser and brother of the country's president, is anticipated to hold meetings with key members of President Trump's cabinet next week, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. It is uncertain whether the president himself will participate in the discussions.
Earlier this year, the U.S. government restricted the export of artificial intelligence chips, like those manufactured by Nvidia, while actively working to limit China's access to cutting-edge technology. In light of these regulations, certain countries such as Japan, Britain, South Korea, and the Netherlands are largely exempted, while others like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore will face specific limitations.
In response to inquiries, both the U.S. Commerce Department and the Abu Dhabi Media Office declined to comment. A spokesperson from Nvidia also refrained from making any statements.
With a keen interest in bolstering its domestic tech sector, the UAE aims to enhance its technology capabilities through increased collaboration with American companies. However, U.S. authorities have expressed reservations about the UAE's relationships with China.
Reportedly, Sheikh Tahnoon's upcoming visit to Washington is in response to an invitation extended by the Trump administration.