United Arab Emirates. (June 1, 2023): It is safe to say most Americans are unaware of the close military and cultural ties between the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In fact, the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces has participated in multiple conflicts alongside American troops in the Middle East for years. In the photo above, U.S. Marines with Marine Forces Command and soldiers with the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces practice close quarter infantry tactics during joint exercise Intrepid Maven 23 in the UAE. The exercise included more than 100 U.S. Marines and Sailors alongside United Arab Emirates Armed Forces who conducted live-fire close-air support exercises and expeditionary airfield operations at several training locations throughout the country.

During 1990–1991 Gulf War, the UAE lost 10 soldiers liberating Kuwait and they are the only Arab country that committed troops to the U.S. effort in Afghanistan.

The United States recognized the UAE in 1974 and the two countries have enjoyed friendly relations and have developed strong government-to-government ties including close security cooperation.

The United States maintains three military bases in the United Arab Emirates and a major military hospital operated by the United States Army, the Department of Defense, and United Arab Emirates Armed Forces.

Annual exercises like this help maintain readiness and strengthen bonds between our two nations.