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The future of technology in the Middle East may hinge on the outcomes of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, as candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump present markedly different visions for foreign policy and economic engagement. Their policies could significantly influence the region’s technological landscape, which has seen accelerated growth in recent years.
Kamala Harris, the current Vice President, has been a proponent of international cooperation and strengthening alliances. Her administration’s approach to the Middle East has emphasized partnerships in technology and innovation. Harris has supported initiatives that promote global collaboration on cybersecurity and green technology, aiming to position the U.S. as a key player in advancing global tech standards. This stance could lead to increased joint ventures between American and Middle Eastern tech firms, fostering innovation and development across sectors like artificial intelligence, clean energy, and smart cities.
In contrast, former President Donald Trump’s tenure was marked by a more transactional approach to foreign policy. His administration prioritized direct deals and economic incentives, often focusing on leveraging U.S. technological expertise for bilateral gains. Trump’s strategy involved a robust stance on counterterrorism and a hardline approach to regional conflicts, which sometimes overshadowed collaborative tech initiatives. Should Trump return to office, his administration might continue to advocate for a “America First” policy, potentially affecting the dynamics of technology transfers and collaborative projects with Middle Eastern countries.
Middle Eastern nations, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, have been aggressively investing in technology as part of their Vision 2030 plans. These efforts are geared toward reducing dependence on oil revenues and fostering a diversified economy driven by innovation. For instance, the UAE has positioned itself as a hub for tech startups and research in artificial intelligence. Saudi Arabia’s commitment to large-scale projects like NEOM, a futuristic city, exemplifies its drive towards integrating cutting-edge technology.
Under Harris’s proposed foreign policy, the Middle East could see an uptick in U.S.-backed tech initiatives. The Vice President’s support for clean energy and cybersecurity aligns with the region’s growing interests in these fields. Harris’s administration may enhance support for technology-driven economic development projects and offer increased funding and expertise in areas such as renewable energy and digital infrastructure. This could result in stronger partnerships between U.S. tech companies and Middle Eastern governments, potentially accelerating the region’s technology adoption and innovation.
Conversely, Trump’s potential re-election could lead to a shift in the balance of technological influence in the region. His administration’s focus on economic pragmatism and strategic alliances might steer Middle Eastern countries towards negotiating directly with U.S. firms for technology deals. This approach could emphasize financial and strategic benefits over collaborative innovation. While this might facilitate specific tech deals and partnerships, it could also limit broader regional tech collaboration fostered by a more cooperative U.S. foreign policy stance.
