Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are seeking to enhance their business and investment collaborations, with a focus on expanding cooperation between companies and investors from both nations. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized this initiative during his visit to Abu Dhabi on October 20, where he engaged with UAE business leaders.
In discussions with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, both leaders talked about their shared priorities and the potential to exchange expertise across various sectors. Prime Minister Wong highlighted the UAE’s strengths in energy sectors, such as oil, gas, renewable energy, and nuclear power, as well as its burgeoning investments in artificial intelligence and defense technology. These areas, he noted, present opportunities for Singapore and the UAE to leverage their strengths and forge new partnerships, particularly in emerging industries.
The economic relationship between Singapore and the UAE is already substantial, with bilateral trade in goods reaching $27.9 billion in 2025 and trade in services totaling $12.8 billion in 2024. The UAE stands as Singapore’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, underscoring the importance of their economic ties.
Both nations have been actively working to enhance their economic cooperation through bilateral business forums and various investment initiatives. The recent talks are a reflection of their mutual interest in broadening commercial connections and identifying new opportunities amid the evolving global economic landscape.