Monthly Brief
December 2025
UAE-US AI partnership deepens as advanced chip exports accelerate American innovation
The US approval of advanced AI chip exports to the UAE’s G42 is being hailed by American chipmakers as a major boost to US innovation and global AI leadership. Supported by industry leaders including Nvidia, AMD, Cisco and BlackRock, the decision strengthens bilateral cooperation across advanced computing and data infrastructure. Additional developments this month—from Stargate’s six new US data centers to Joby Aviation’s first crewed eVTOL demonstration in Dubai—underscore how UAE-US collaboration is expanding across AI infrastructure, next-generation mobility and high-tech job creation.
1 big thing: UAE Chip Imports Fuel American AI Innovation, Say US Chipmakers
The US government’s decision to approve exports of advanced AI chips to Abu Dhabi–based G42 is being hailed as a major step in promoting American innovation and global AI cooperation. Cerebras CEO Andrew Feldman said the move allows US companies to “tackle some of the world’s hardest problems with American innovation at the core.” Industry leaders from Nvidia, AMD, Cisco and BlackRock also welcomed the approval, emphasizing that it strengthens America’s leadership in the global AI ecosystem.
Why it matters
- Reinforces US technological leadership by expanding AI influence through trusted partnerships.
- Deepens UAE–US collaboration across advanced computing, manufacturing and data infrastructure.
- Reflects a shared strategic outlook, where AI serves as a platform for stability, resilience and long-term economic cooperation.
Additional stories shaping the UAE–US economic partnership:
Stargate is expanding its nationwide footprint with six additional AI data centers across Texas, New Mexico, Michigan and Wisconsin, accelerating one of the largest US AI infrastructure build-outs to date.
Launched in January 2025 with backing from MGX, OpenAI, Oracle and SoftBank, the project aims to create an estimated 100,000 American jobs. The newest site will be located in Saline Township, Michigan, a state with strong and fast-growing economic ties to the UAE. In 2024, Michigan recorded a $600 million trade surplus with the UAE, with bilateral trade supporting approximately 5,000 local jobs. UAE companies also collaborate with Michigan’s major automotive innovators such as Ford and General Motors, reinforcing deepening tech and manufacturing partnerships.
Santa Cruz–based Joby Aviation made history at the 2025 Dubai Airshow by becoming the first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) company to complete a crewed flying taxi demonstration in the UAE.
The milestone underscores growing UAE-US collaboration in next-generation mobility and advanced aviation technologies. Joby is now laying the groundwork for a 2026 commercial air taxi launch in Dubai, one of the world’s most ambitious smart mobility markets. The company’s expansion strengthens US leadership in the global electric aviation sector while accelerating the UAE’s vision to become a hub for autonomous and sustainable transportation. The partnership also highlights increasing cross-border investment and regulatory cooperation needed to scale eVTOL networks globally.