EU–UAE Trade Negotiations Establish a Deep and Strategic Partnership

 

The European Union and the United Arab Emirates have entered an advanced stage in their free trade negotiations, with the third round of talks currently taking place in Dubai. Initiated in April 2025, the goal of this comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is to strengthen trade in goods and services while promoting cooperation in key sectors such as technology, energy, and innovation.The discussions also aim to establish a broader Strategic Partnership Agreement, expanding collaboration in artificial intelligence, digitalization, and research. This dual-track approach reflects both sides’ ambitions to shape a long-term, diversified relationship built on shared growth and innovation.Trade between the EU and UAE continues to thrive. In 2024, trade in goods reached €55.6 billion, while services exceeded €39 billion. EU exports have risen by 15% in just one year, marking nearly a 50% increase since 2019. The EU remains one of the largest investors in the UAE, with around €186 billion in total investments.Beyond trade, this partnership extends into sustainability, education, culture, and security — reinforcing a shared vision for stability and progress. As both sides adapt to global economic shifts, the EU–UAE partnership stands as a model of modern, forward-looking international cooperation.