UAE, US Strengthen Energy And AI Partnership At ADIPEC

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed the Honourable Doug Burgum, Secretary of the United States Department of the Interior and Chairman of the National Energy Dominance Council, at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. Secretary Burgum was in the UAE to attend the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC 2025), one of the world’s leading energy events. The meeting reflected the strong and growing partnership between the UAE and the United States, particularly in the fields of energy, artificial intelligence, and innovation.

During the discussion, both sides explored ways to strengthen collaboration in sectors that drive future growth. They emphasized the importance of working together to promote innovation, sustainability, and the use of advanced technologies. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed noted that cooperation between the UAE and the United States continues to evolve, serving the long-term economic and strategic interests of both nations. The leaders highlighted how energy and AI can be used to boost productivity, support global sustainability efforts, and prepare industries for the challenges of the future.

His Highness also witnessed the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UAE and the United States. This agreement aims to speed up cooperation in energy and artificial intelligence, promoting industrial transformation and economic resilience. The MoU represents another milestone in the long-standing partnership between the two countries, building on shared goals of energy security, sustainable development, and technological innovation.

The MoU was signed on behalf of the UAE Government by Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC. Representing the United States, the agreement was signed by Secretary Doug Burgum. The collaboration aims to use artificial intelligence to improve energy systems, drive innovation, and prepare industries for the future. It also supports both countries’ ambitions to transition toward smarter, more efficient, and sustainable industrial ecosystems.

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber emphasized that this cooperation is guided by the UAE leadership’s vision of building powerful international partnerships. He stated that both nations are committed to developing technologies that strengthen economic resilience and environmental responsibility. Dr. Al Jaber noted that the partnership would help design modern energy systems capable of meeting rising global demand in the age of artificial intelligence. These systems will also reinforce supply chains, support high-tech manufacturing, and contribute to the UAE’s “Make it in the Emirates” initiative, which aims to build a strong industrial base at home.

Secretary Doug Burgum expressed his appreciation for the UAE’s leadership in the global energy and innovation sectors. He said that under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the United States is focusing on using artificial intelligence to modernize energy systems, boost production, and secure future energy supplies. He added that this collaboration is a continuation of President Trump’s vision during his recent visit to the UAE. Burgum also noted that the partnership would enhance both nations’ positions as global leaders in energy innovation and technology-driven growth.

The Memorandum of Understanding will focus on integrating artificial intelligence into industrial systems, manufacturing, and logistics. Both nations will work to improve energy efficiency, manage smart grids, predict maintenance needs, and enhance energy storage. The cooperation will also encourage innovation in robotics, materials engineering, and automation, helping industries become more efficient and competitive.

Another key part of the agreement involves promoting technical research, knowledge exchange, and workforce development. Both nations plan to invest in leadership training and technical skill-building to support a new generation of professionals in energy and technology. This cooperation will help create a global workforce ready to meet the needs of future industries, especially those driven by AI and clean energy innovation.

The new MoU is closely aligned with the UAE’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, which aims to position the country as a global hub for innovation and smart manufacturing. It reflects the UAE’s determination to diversify its economy, invest in sustainable technologies, and reduce dependence on traditional energy resources. The agreement will also help attract more global investors and technology firms to the UAE, strengthening its position as a center for industrial and digital transformation.

The meeting was attended by several senior UAE officials, including H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, and Yousef Al Otaiba, UAE Ambassador to the United States. They were joined by members of the visiting US delegation, underlining the importance both countries place on this growing partnership.