U.S. AI Statecraft

The United States is using major AI partnerships with the UAE and Saudi Arabia to extend its influence and counter China’s growing tech footprint. These agreements channel U.S. cloud, semiconductor, and AI companies into Gulf-led infrastructure projects, blending strategic economic goals with geopolitical positioning. While the deals present opportunities to shape global AI governance, they also raise concerns over oversight, sovereignty, and long-term control of exported technologies. Without a coordinated framework, the U.S. risks losing leverage as these initiatives scale and evolve beyond initial agreements.