US Energy Secretary Chris Wright to visit UAE on first overseas trip

Visit will include meetings with senior UAE leaders in government and industry

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright will stop in Abu Dhabi. Photo: CERAWeek by S&P Global

US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright is to stop in Abu Dhabi as the first part of his tour of the Middle East.

Mr Wright's arrival comes after a UAE delegation, led by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, visited Washington last month. At that time, both sides reinforced their shared commitment to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly across energy, infrastructure, manufacturing and AI, reported the state news agency Wam.

Investments, AI, economic partnerships and microchips are among the topics discussed with Trump administration officials, including the US President, during Sheikh Tahnoon's visit to the US.

“We are honoured to welcome Secretary Wright to the UAE on his first official overseas visit, which follows the successful UAE delegation visit to Washington," said Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology.

"His presence reflects the strength and depth of the UAE-US strategic relationship and our shared commitment to energy security, economic growth, and technological advancement. The UAE values its long-standing partnership with the United States – one built on mutual respect, common interests, and a shared commitment to invest in progress.

"As we look to the future, we see vast opportunities to deepen collaboration across energy, infrastructure, AI, and industry – anchored in the pro-growth, pro-investment, and pro-people approach that both our nations champion.”

Mr Wright is due to engage with senior UAE leaders in government and industry during his trip to the Emirates. "I’m looking forward to making my first trip to the United Arab Emirates as Secretary of Energy," he said, thanking President Sheikh Mohamed and Sheikh Tahnoon for the invitation.

"Dr Sultan Al Jaber and I have already had productive discussions in Washington and Houston regarding our countries’ long-standing energy partnership. We will continue this dialogue to strengthen our countries’ strategic relationship, support the UAE’s recently announced investments in the US, and advance global energy security during my visit.”

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