Washington Expands Military , Space Technology Exports to UAE

Washington – The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Friday that it is expanding the United Arab Emirates’ access to advanced American military, satellite, and dual-use technologies, including artificial intelligence chips and servers.

The Bureau of Industry and Security said the UAE’s classification under export regulations has been upgraded in recognition of its role as a “major defense partner” and its support for U.S. security interests.

The decision removes restrictions on supporting Emirati drone programs and allows the UAE government and approved commercial entities to obtain a wide range of U.S. products without export licenses, under the Strategic Trade Authorization exception. 

This includes military equipment, certain satellites and spacecraft, as well as technologies used in oil and gas, desalination, and civilian nuclear energy.

The Commerce Department emphasized that the move will strengthen the UAE’s infrastructure and defense capabilities while advancing U.S. strategic interests in the Middle East. 

It also highlighted the UAE’s commitment to preventing diversion or misuse of sensitive American technologies.

As part of the bilateral AI cooperation agreement signed in May 2025, the U.S. approved Emirati imports of advanced computing equipment, including AI chips and servers, without licensing requirements. The UAE pledged parallel investments in AI infrastructure projects inside the United States.

Officials said the expanded export privileges reflect the ongoing military partnership between Washington and Abu Dhabi, and are expected to enhance both nations’ technological and defense collaboration.