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China–UAE News
Source: Asia Times

US and China Compete for AI and Cloud Infrastructure Across the Gulf

Chinese technology investments in the Gulf Arab states are increasingly intersecting with American technology footprints, particularly across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. While China supplies cloud services, 5G networks, and smart-city systems, the US provides advanced graphics processing units and leading foundation models. Both regional governments are simultaneously pursuing sovereign computing capabilities while balancing partnerships across both ecosystems.

China–UAE News
Source: الحرة

China Expands Gulf Tech Presence as US Enforces AI Chip Terms

Chinese direct investment in the UAE surpassed $12 billion in 2025 as Chinese technology initiatives expanded across cloud computing and digital services. Concurrently, US export rules require Gulf nations to strip Chinese hardware from core networks to maintain access to advanced American AI semiconductors. UAE firms like G42 have removed Chinese equipment, balancing deepening Chinese commercial ties against American technological conditions.

China–UAE News
Source: The Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington

China’s Technology Strategy Expands Across Gulf Industrial and Digital Sectors

China is increasingly integrating its new quality productive forces framework into Gulf diversification programs, spanning renewable energy, AI, and digital networks. Gulf sovereign wealth funds and technology firms are adjusting their investment strategies amid mounting U.S.-China technological competition and regional risks. Meanwhile, Chinese firms are expanding industrial footprints in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman.

China–UAE News
Source: Alhurra

Chinese Direct Investment in UAE Tops $12 Billion Amid US AI Tech Rules

Chinese direct investment in the UAE surpassed $12 billion in 2025 as tech firms like Alibaba Cloud expanded data center and AI services. Meanwhile, U.S. policies conditioning access to advanced AI chips on the removal of Chinese core network hardware require Gulf states to navigate conflicting technological relationships. In the UAE, active Chinese technology projects grew to 81 under the Digital Silk Road framework.

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