Trump’s Crypto Czar Discusses Crypto and AI with UAE’s National Security Adviser

David Sacks, the White House’s crypto and AI czar, recently met with Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s national security adviser, to discuss emerging technologies, with a particular focus on cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence (AI). The meeting, which took place amid several high-profile discussions in Washington, highlighted the growing interest in the intersection of digital currencies and AI and the potential investment opportunities emerging in this space.

Key Conversations on Crypto and AI

Sheikh Tahnoon, who is also the brother of the UAE’s president, shared in a March 20 post on X (formerly Twitter) that his conversation with Sacks centered around the expanding role of digital currencies and the impact of AI technologies. The two officials explored the increasing integration of these technologies and the investment opportunities arising from their convergence.

This meeting is part of a series of diplomatic and business-related discussions between US and UAE officials. On March 18, Tahnoon dined with former President Donald Trump at the White House, where they discussed enhancing economic and technological partnerships between their countries. Trump later shared on Truth Social that the talks included strategies for strengthening cooperation in technology and economic advancement.

Strengthening UAE-US Relations

Although specific details about the conversation between Trump and Tahnoon remain private, sources familiar with the discussions revealed to Bloomberg that they covered key topics such as technology, energy, and the UAE’s potential plans to increase investments in the US. Multiple posts on Tahnoon’s X account indicated meetings with senior US officials, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, where trade and investment opportunities were discussed.

Tahnoon also held a video call with Elon Musk, who is leading efforts to reduce government spending, and engaged in discussions on optimizing government systems. The meetings reflect a shared focus on leveraging advanced technologies for economic growth, with a particular emphasis on AI and crypto.

UAE’s Ambitions in Technology and Investment

Tahnoon’s visit also touched on the UAE’s tech ambitions, particularly its efforts to secure easier access to computer chips. In 2023, the Biden administration implemented export restrictions on semiconductor technology, which has significantly impacted global access to these crucial components. Tahnoon’s discussions were seen as part of the UAE’s broader strategy to build its technological infrastructure on US soil.

As the chair of the investment firm MGX, Tahnoon is playing a significant role in driving forward the UAE’s tech-focused investments. MGX recently committed $7 billion to the development of AI data centers in the US through a private-led initiative called “Stargate,” which is expected to eventually total $500 billion. This announcement was made shortly after Trump’s return to the White House.

UAE’s Expanding Influence

MGX, which also invested $2 billion in Binance earlier this month, is a subsidiary of a larger $1.5 trillion empire controlled by Tahnoon. This empire includes the UAE’s sovereign wealth funds, the country’s largest bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, and the AI development firm G42, further cementing the UAE’s position as a growing player in global tech and finance.

The growing collaboration between the UAE and the US in the fields of cryptocurrency, AI, and investment is indicative of the strong economic and technological ties that are developing between the two nations. As both countries continue to explore the potential of emerging technologies, the strategic conversations surrounding these sectors are likely to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global tech and finance.

Looking Ahead

The meetings between David Sacks and Sheikh Tahnoon underscore the UAE’s increasing involvement in the global crypto and AI landscape. With a focus on expanding its technological influence and building robust partnerships with the US, the UAE is positioning itself as a key player in the future of digital currencies and artificial intelligence. As both nations move forward with their investment and tech infrastructure plans, it is clear that the intersection of crypto and AI will continue to drive global discussions on innovation and economic development.