UAE Embassy - Washington, DC

The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Washington, DC, has worked to develop the partnership between the UAE and the United States (US) for over 25 years. Led by His Excellency Yousef Al Otaiba, who has held his role since 2008, the UAE and the US have worked as close friends and allies for more than 50 years to create economic prosperity, and encourage culture and knowledge sharing between the two countries. Through the lens of “united for a better future, together,” the Embassy established the UAE USA United campaign to raise awareness of the collaborative efforts between Americans and Emiratis. As the head of the UAE Embassy, Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba works to strengthen the close friendship between the UAE and US. Committed to economic growth and development, his advocacy for innovative outcomes is exemplified through milestones such as the US-UAE 123 Agreement, the highest standard of civilian nuclear cooperation in world history, and the Abraham Accords. His influence continues to foster better cooperation among nations, establishing the UAE as one of the fastest-growing US economic partnerships worldwide and earning his work recognition in Time Magazine in 2020. With a shared commitment to bilateral trade, space exploration and advancing groundbreaking technologies, the UAE has diversified its economy and supports hundreds of thousands of American jobs in technology, hospitality and aerospace. As of 2009, the UAE is also the largest export market for US goods in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with bilateral trade totaling more than $31 billion as of 2023. The UAE Embassy continues to engage in cultural exchange programs with esteemed US organizations, including the Special Olympics, the Meridian International Center, Harvard University and New York University. Through these partnerships, the UAE and US are actively creating a better future based on diversity, inclusion and mutual respect for all people.