The US Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has elevated the UAE to an A:5 export control designation, streamlining UAE-US cooperation and facilitating secure access for trusted entities across AI, energy, space and defense. The decision “affirms and advances decades of deep and dependable UAE-US cooperation in technology, security, trade and investment,” said Ambassador Al Otaiba.

Behind the announcement is one of America’s most consequential bilateral economic partnerships. For 17 consecutive years, the UAE has been America's largest trading partner in the Middle East. 2025 saw record UAE-US trade levels with bilateral trade totaling $39 billion — up 13% year-over-year. UAE exports supported nearly 206,000 US jobs in 2025. UAE investments in the US surpass $1 trillion, with an additional $1.4 trillion investment and technology framework already being deployed into US-based digital infrastructure at scale.

Why This Matters

The US has placed the UAE among its most trusted technology and defense partners. The UAE is the first Arab nation to receive A:5 status — the top tier of the U.S. Strategic Trade Authorization system — a reflection of its record as a safe, trusted custodian of sensitive technology.

The A:5 redesignation opens the door to more. Deeper investments, joint innovation across AI and advanced technology and stronger supply chains are taking shape across semiconductors, quantum computing, space and civil nuclear energy technologies.

Statement by Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba: UAE Welcomes US Decision to Advance Export Control Designation

Washington, DC (July 10, 2026) – The United Arab Emirates welcomes the US Government's decision to elevate the UAE to an A:5 export control designation. This decision affirms and advances decades of deep and dependable UAE-US cooperation in technology, security, trade and investment.

Across six presidential administrations, the UAE has demonstrated that it is one of the most steadfast US allies. In 2024, the US designated the UAE as a Major Defense Partner – a status held by only one other nation – reflecting the depth of trust across the bilateral relationship.

The UAE is America’s largest trading partner and export destination in the Middle East – North Africa region, and the US has a $23.8 billion trade surplus with the UAE, its fourth largest globally. More, the US has entrusted the UAE and its companies to acquire US civilian nuclear energy technologies and to deploy the most advanced US defense systems.

Today’s action opens new doors for joint research and development, deeper technology cooperation, expanded trade and an enhanced defense partnership. We look forward to building on this foundation together to create a stable, secure and prosperous future for the people of both nations.