The US is expanding the UAE’s access to controlled American technologies after the Commerce Department upgraded the country’s export control status in recognition of its defense partnership with Washington, according to a Friday press release.

The Bureau of Industry and Security said the UAE would gain eligibility for license-free export of a range of military, commercial satellite and dual-use technologies by joining a preferred export control group, while restrictions related to unmanned aerial vehicle programs will also be lifted. Officials said the changes would support both the UAE’s commercial infrastructure and its defense cooperation with the US.

Separately, the Commerce Department approved license-free exports of advanced computing products, including AI chips and servers, to the UAE government and selected companies under a bilateral AI agreement, alongside the country’s commitment to invest in US AI digital infrastructure.