#Japan #Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #economic partnership

Strengthening Ties: Abu Dhabi's Economic Delegation Visits Japan

Abu Dhabi is taking significant steps to fortify its position on the global stage with an upcoming economic delegation set to visit Japan from May 6 to 9, 2025. Organized by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) in collaboration with the UAE Embassy in Tokyo, this high-profile visit signifies a commitment to enhance partnerships with one of the world's leading economies.

The delegation comprises prominent officials and executives from various sectors, including government entities like the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and major institutions like the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the leading companies in key industries. This diverse representation underscores the emirate's determination to build bridges across various spheres, targeting investments, technology transfer, and collaborative projects in high-growth sectors.

His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, highlighted Abu Dhabi's robust and evolving 'Falcon Economy'. He stated, "This initiative aims to secure strategic partnerships with prominent economies around the world. We are prioritizing sectors such as high-value investments, clean energy, AI, life sciences, and advanced technologies that will shape a sustainable economic future."

The Historical Context of UAE-Japan Relations

The UAE has maintained solid relations with Japan for over six decades. This partnership has positively impacted bilateral trade, which has been on an upward trajectory. Notably, trade between the two nations has increased at a staggering rate of 11.9 percent annually over the last five years. Furthermore, the UAE has seen its non-oil exports to Japan rise consistently, indicating a promising exchange of goods and services.

Exciting developments are on the horizon with the expected signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) later in the year. This agreement aims to unlock broader trade opportunities and drive investment flow between both nations.

A Collaborative Agenda Ahead

During their visit, the Abu Dhabi delegation is scheduled to participate in significant events, including the Expo 2025 in Osaka. They will also partake in the Abu Dhabi-Tokyo Business Forum and the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum, both designed to facilitate discussions on investment opportunities and international cooperation.

H.E. Shihab Ahmed Alfaheem, Ambassador of the UAE to Japan, expressed excitement over the visit, stating, "This trip signifies a fundamental alignment between Abu Dhabi and Japan. The Japanese expertise in fields like digital transformation and sustainable mobility can harmoniously integrate with Abu Dhabi’s strategic sectors in our quest for a net-zero future."

The Abu Dhabi Japan Economic Council (ADJEC) has been a crucial entity in this partnership, fostering cooperation across various industries, including oil and gas, contracting, and education.

Future Outlook

As the delegation prepares for this pivotal visit, all eyes are on the potential outcomes. With ongoing collaborations and a commitment to mutual growth in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital technology, this mission is set to ignite a new chapter in the UAE-Japan partnership.

With major business leaders and officials gathering during the delegation's events, there will also be a focus on sectors that are critical to both economies, such as sustainable technology and health innovation. The discussions are expected to yield significant insights into how both nations can work together to achieve not only economic but also societal benefits.

The Abu Dhabi delegation’s exploration of new avenues for partnership in Japan is a testament to their commitment to fostering favorable economic ties and a shared vision for sustainable development. This visit marks an exciting endeavor for the UAE and a leap towards robust international collaboration toward a more prosperous future.