Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed’s visit to the US signals the UAE’s prioritization of AI investments over the conflict in Gaza. Engaging with President Trump, Tahnoon outlined the UAE’s commitment to infrastructure and technology, including a substantial investment in AI and energy projects. This shift illustrates the UAE’s growing alignment with the US while distancing itself from criticisms of Israel’s actions in Gaza, contrasting the positions taken by neighboring Gulf states.
During Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed’s recent visit to the White House, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signaled a definitive shift in its strategic priorities, emphasizing a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) rather than the concurrent Israeli conflict in Gaza. Tahnoon, known for his multifaceted roles, including that of a spymaster and tech investor, articulated the UAE’s intent to invest in critical sectors such as AI and healthcare during his discussions with President Donald Trump and other officials.
Holding significant financial influence as chairman of two Abu Dhabi wealth funds, which collectively possess a net worth of $1.4 trillion, Tahnoon has invested heavily in AI. This includes his leadership in G42, an AI group that recently received a $1.5 billion investment from Microsoft for data centers in the UAE. His visit also aimed at persuading the Trump administration to reconsider restrictions on advanced AI chip exports, promoting the UAE as a vital ally for the US in global AI competition.
Historically, the UAE has strategically balanced relations with both the US and China. However, Tahnoon’s focus on American technological advancements indicates a realignment towards the US, further reinforced by a previous significant pledge of $7 billion for an AI infrastructure plan. Additionally, after his trip, the Abu Dhabi Investment Corporation (ADQ), led by Tahnoon, announced a partnership for over $25 billion in US energy projects tied to data centers.
The UAE’s burgeoning investment in AI and technology grants it considerable leverage over US policy, as articulated by US officials. Notably absent from Tahnoon’s discussions in Washington were mentions of the ongoing conflicts in Gaza, marking a distinct departure from the stances taken by neighboring Gulf states. In contrast to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s condemnation of Israeli actions, the UAE has maintained a cooperative relationship with Israel since their normalization of ties in 2020 under the Abraham Accords, even lobbying against Arab proposals for Gaza reconstruction.
In summary, Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed’s recent visit to the United States highlights the UAE’s strategic pivot towards Artificial Intelligence and technological investments, distancing itself from discussions surrounding the Israeli-Gaza conflict. This shift not only emphasizes the UAE’s ambition to position itself as a leader in AI but also reveals its evolving diplomatic landscape as it seeks to strengthen ties with the US, diverging from the more critical stance adopted by other Gulf nations towards Israel.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
