Strengthening Trade and Investments: Abu Dhabi to the U.S.
Abu Dhabi Initiates Economic Engagement with the United States
From September 29 to October 1, 2025, a high-ranking economic delegation from Abu Dhabi, spearheaded by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), is set to visit the U.S. This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi's strategic plan to forge stronger economic relationships with global leaders, aiming to enhance the Emirate's reputation as a premier hub for business and investment.
A Delegation of Significance
The delegation will be led by His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, and comprises over 100 senior figures from 44 sectors encompassing both governmental and private enterprises, including notable entities such as the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Mubadala. This diverse representation illustrates Abu Dhabi's commitment to fostering extensive economic ties and promoting international engagement.
Purpose of the U.S. Visit
The primary aim of this visit is to engage with U.S. business leaders and foster discussions about potential collaborations across strategic sectors. The delegation will coordinate high-level meetings that focus on exploring innovative business opportunities and reinforcing existing economic partnerships. Highlights include the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) hosted in New York, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
Additionally, a Family Business roundtable organized by the Abu Dhabi Chamber and the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) will showcase Abu Dhabi's transformations and investment possibilities.
Emphasizing Strategic Partnerships
H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi stated, "The United States is a longstanding and strategic partner of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Our economic ties are robust, covering significant sectors and industries. This visit will not only strengthen our collaborative spirit but also unleash new opportunities in innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth."
Export and Investment Insights
The economic ties between the UAE and the United States have remained strong, with bilateral trade reaching USD 34.4 billion in 2024, marking an 8.5% rise from the previous year. The UAE stands as the leading trading partner for the U.S. in the Middle East, conducting trade activities across all 50 states, which supports more than 184,000 jobs in the U.S. Moreover, total investments made by the UAE in the U.S. surpass USD 1 trillion, with the nation poised to inject an additional $1.4 trillion into various sectors over the next decade, focusing on areas like AI development and infrastructure.
U.S. Companies in Abu Dhabi
The business landscape within Abu Dhabi continues to be an attractive proposition for U.S. enterprises. More American firms are entering the thriving innovation-driven economy of the Emirate, underscored by a notable increase in registered U.S. financial institutions at ADGM, recognized as the most dynamic and growing international financial center in the MENA region.
About ADDED
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development plays a crucial role in the Emirate’s economic growth and diversification, overseeing the business sector's regulation and development. The organization aims to cultivate a knowledge-based, diverse, and sustainable economy by implementing top-notch policies and practices while utilizing the latest research and data. Its initiatives focus on enhancing cooperation with strategic partners to improve the business ecosystem, positioning Abu Dhabi as the preferred destination for global business and investments.
For more information on ADDED and its initiatives, please visit
www.added.gov.ae.