Relations between Emirati and Israeli companies did not begin with the Abraham Accords in 2020, but date back years before official normalization. Private companies formed a link for transferring Israeli technology to sovereign Emirati projects years before official normalization. Following the Accords, cooperation expanded into more sensitive digital sectors. The UAE has since transformed into a platform for re-integrating and marketing Israeli technology within other markets, according to sources. This full relationship involves a network of investment, development, operation, integration, and re-export of technology, showcasing the depth of the collaboration.
Early Partnerships and Digital Expansion
In 2008, AGT International, a company founded by Israeli businessman Mati Kochavi, secured a contract valued at approximately $816 million. The agreement focused on developing systems designed to protect vital facilities within Abu Dhabi, marking an early instance of collaboration. Companies linked to AGT International later participated in smart surveillance initiatives, notably the 'Falcon Eye' project. This particular project incorporated thousands of cameras and advanced control centers to enhance monitoring capabilities across the emirate. These early partnerships laid a significant foundation for future technological exchanges. Following the signing of the Abraham Accords in September 2020, the scope of the relationship expanded significantly. Cooperation became more public and moved beyond its initial focus on facility protection and surveillance, now encompassing areas such as artificial intelligence, data analysis, smart cities, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. This expansion into more sensitive digital sectors noted a new phase of collaboration.
Key Joint Ventures and Technologies
Presight, a joint venture between the UAE's G42 group and Israel's Rafael company, was established to develop artificial intelligence and big data solutions. Rafael stated, "The joint project included establishing an R&D center in Tel Aviv and leveraging local expertise in developing AI applications." This strategic move underlined the commitment to combining Emirati investment with Israeli technological prowess. Presight subsequently expanded its operations into projects related to security, emergency management, financial and judicial sectors, and data analysis, demonstrating its versatility and broad application potential. The company continued its international expansion in AI and digital infrastructure in 2026, further solidifying its global presence. Separately, UAE companies also partnered with Israeli firms such as VAST Data and WEKA for data storage and processing solutions, addressing critical infrastructure needs. The UAE's CPX collaborated with Rafael and Microsoft on a platform designed for sharing cyber threat intelligence. This platform is specifically engineered to encompass indicators of compromise, risk analysis, and cyber attack methodologies, providing a strong defense mechanism against digital threats. Spire Solutions, another key player, distributes and integrates cybersecurity solutions, including offerings from Israeli companies specializing in digital identity management, penetration testing, threat monitoring, incident response, and digital activity analysis, thereby enhancing regional cybersecurity capabilities.
Regional Distribution and Intermediary Role
This intermediary model extended to Arab, African, and Asian countries, with UAE companies acting as technical integrators between technology developers and government clients and institutions. This approach positions the UAE as a key gateway for Israeli technology into broader markets. The Moroccan branch of UAE company FSSYS, known as FSSYS Maroc, facilitated communication between Moroccan authorities and Israeli company NSO, the developer of the Pegasus spyware. An international investigation published in July 2026 revealed FSSYS Maroc's role in this facilitation, shedding light on the intricate network of technology transfer. Representatives of NSO presented offers to Moroccan officials and experts in 2017 at a site linked to FSSYS Maroc, illustrating the direct engagement facilitated by Emirati entities. The UAE's role as a platform for re-integrating and marketing Israeli technology in other markets is thus multifaceted, involving significant investment, development, operation, integration, and re-export activities.