As Canada and the United Arab Emirates mark 50 years of diplomatic and commercial partnership, the two nations stand at the threshold of a new era—one defined by innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
What began five decades ago as a diplomatic relationship has evolved into a powerful strategic alliance grounded in economic cooperation, cultural ties, and common values.
Today, Canada and the UAE work side by side to address global challenges—from climate action to digital transformation—bringing together the strengths of two nations that span continents.
To commemorate this milestone, the Canada-UAE Business Summit will take place on December 6 in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Mubadala Investment Company.
The summit will convene diplomats, policymakers, and business leaders to shape the next chapter of this partnership, with a focus on clean energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and financial collaboration.
Economic Ties That Power Innovation
With over C$30 billion (USD 21 billion) in UAE investments across Canada—in infrastructure, energy, and technology—and over C$21 billion (USD 15 billion) in Canadian assets and direct investments in the UAE, the bilateral economic relationship is both deep and dynamic.
The UAE is Canada’s top trading partner in the MENA region, while Canada’s vibrant diaspora of over 40,000 citizens in the Emirates further reinforces cultural and business ties. These strong foundations enable both nations to pursue ambitious ventures in high-impact sectors.
Driving the Green Transition
As the world shifts toward sustainable development, Canada and the UAE are emerging as global leaders in clean energy. Both countries are investing heavily in next-generation technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs), hydrogen fuel, and carbon capture and storage (CCS).
Canada’s clean tech expertise, paired with the UAE’s landmark sustainability initiatives like Masdar City and the Net Zero by 2050 Strategy, creates a unique synergy.
A key example is the COP28-led Catalytic Transition Fund—a US$1 billion joint initiative between UAE’s ALTÉRRA and Canada’s Brookfield Asset Management—designed to finance global decarbonisation efforts and accelerate clean energy innovation worldwide.
A Shared Vision for the Digital Future
Canada’s reputation in AI, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity complements the UAE’s bold vision for digital transformation.
The UAE was the first country to appoint a Minister of AI and continues to lead through institutions like the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and global AI powerhouse G42.
These capabilities open new doors for partnerships in smart cities, AI-driven services, and digital infrastructure—particularly as both nations prioritize ethical innovation and long-term economic resilience.
Collaboration in Finance, Health, and Education
Finance remains a cornerstone of bilateral collaboration. Canada’s globally respected regulatory frameworks and institutional investors offer natural synergies with the UAE’s thriving banking, venture capital, and sovereign wealth ecosystem.
Healthcare and education are also rising priorities. Canada’s expertise in biotech and medical research aligns well with the UAE’s expanding healthcare infrastructure.
Similarly, Canadian universities and training institutions have long-standing relationships in the UAE, offering significant potential to scale academic exchanges and skill-building initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this 50-year milestone, Canada and the UAE are not simply reflecting on the past—they are laying the groundwork for the next 50 years of partnership. With shared goals in sustainability, innovation, and global impact, both nations are uniquely positioned to lead on the international stage.
This December, as leaders from both countries gather in Abu Dhabi, the Canada-UAE Business Summit will serve as a launching pad for transformative projects and lasting collaborations—proof that strategic partnerships can shape a better, greener, and more connected future for all.
