HE Al Zeyoudi visits Silicon Valley to strengthen UAE-US ties in technology and innovation sectors – Intelligent CIO Middle East

His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for International Trade of the United Arab Emirates, concluded a visit to San Francisco and nearby Silicon Valley aimed at boosting economic cooperation and exploring partnerships between the UAE and the United States, particularly in the field of advanced technologies.

HE Dr Thani held a series of discussions with stakeholders, leading technology companies and local entrepreneurs to identify potential partnerships in high priority areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and climate technologies.

During the meetings, His Excellency presented the UAE’s advanced technological ambitions as well as its investment-friendly business environment, inviting American investors, start-ups and qualified professionals to explore the expansion opportunities it offers. Discussions focused on joint projects, research collaboration and exchange of knowledge and experience in cutting-edge disciplines such as artificial intelligence, data analysis and sustainable technologies.

HM Emirates’ visit to the US underscores the country’s commitment to forging global partnerships to accelerate the development of its industrial and technological potential, and further strengthen the country’s position as a destination for investment and innovation.

On the visit, His Excellency said: “The West Coast of the United States is the world’s epicenter for technology and innovation, and the UAE has much to gain from closer ties to the vibrant Silicon Valley ecosystem. This visit is an important part of our efforts to establish long-term partnerships, across the private, public and academic sectors, to leverage their expertise and accelerate the UAE’s technological capabilities. Technology is a key pillar of our economic growth and diversification agenda, and it is critical that we build productive and mutually beneficial relationships with leading global players.”

The United States is the UAE’s third-largest trading partner globally, accounting for 5.6% of the UAE’s total non-oil trade. In 2023, bilateral non-oil trade reached USD 40 billion (AED 145.1 billion), an increase of 20.1% compared to 2022. The UAE is America’s most important trading partner in the Arab world, and bilateral trade it accounts for 27% of U.S. non-oil trade with the region.

In terms of investment, the UAE has assets in the US worth USD 38.1 billion, representing over 50% of total FDI from Arab countries in America at the end of 2022. These investments are mainly in transportation, business services, software and IT services , real estate, food and beverage and aerospace. In turn, American investments in the United Arab Emirates amounted to $4.3 billion at the end of 2021.

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