Dark Box: Uncovering the UAE’s Lobbying and Influence Operations in the United States
A growing body of evidence reveals that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is conducting a highly sophisticated and well-funded influence campaign targeting U.S. foreign policy. Leveraging a combination of lobbying, think tank funding, academic donations, and recruitment of former American officials, the UAE has positioned itself not only as a strategic partner but also as a powerful behind-the-scenes actor in Washington.
A Coordinated Strategy of Influence
Since 2016, the UAE has spent over $154 million on lobbying in the United States. These funds have supported a wide array of activities, including direct lobbying of policymakers, funding prominent think tanks, and donating to elite U.S. universities. These contributions are often designed to shape research agendas, public discourse, and ultimately foreign policy recommendations.
Additionally, the UAE has reportedly recruited former U.S. military, intelligence, and government officials—not just as advisors, but in some cases to support surveillance and influence operations targeting dissidents, journalists, and even U.S.-based companies. These actions raise serious legal and ethical questions regarding foreign interference and potential violations of U.S. law.
Beyond Traditional Adversaries
What sets this case apart is that the UAE, unlike typical targets of U.S. counterintelligence (e.g., China, Russia, Iran), is a close ally of the United States. This complicates the response, particularly given the UAE’s growing ties with Israel and its cooperation with the U.S. military in the Gulf.
These alliances have, to date, helped insulate the UAE from significant political fallout, despite increasing concern over the nature and scope of its operations.
Political Implications
This effort also appears to have broader geopolitical ramifications. The UAE’s leader, Mohammed bin Zayed (MBZ), and his close ally, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), have advanced regional agendas that occasionally run counter to U.S. interests. The exposure of UAE’s influence efforts could be viewed as an indirect check on both leaders’ growing assertiveness in the region.
Reputational Risks and Legal Exposure
The investigation raises alarms about the credibility of U.S. think tanks, the ethics of former officials who work with foreign governments, and the transparency of influence operations conducted by America’s allies. As scrutiny increases, individuals and institutions cooperating with such efforts may face reputational damage and legal review.
Conclusion
The UAE’s strategy has revealed how wealth and access can be used to quietly shape U.S. policy from within. As awareness of these tactics grows, there is a renewed call for transparency, accountability, and ethical standards to prevent foreign influence from undermining democratic decision-making.
