The Scottish Government and the Government of the United Arab Emirates recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation ties surrounding bilateral trade, collaboration on breakthrough technologies and education and research (involving AI, Quantum and clean technology).
The MoU was announced at a special ceremony at the Ministry of Economy in Dubai.
Neil Gray, Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy and His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, attended to sign the MoU on behalf of their respective governments.
Focusing on five key areas of cooperation, the MOU will strengthen the economic relationship between Scotland and the UAE, further enhancing the government-to-government relationship through increased bilateral engagement, fostering collaboration across clean energy opportunities, as well as cooperation on new breakthrough technologies such as AI, while promoting increased educational links between the two countries.
This MOU reportedly cements an existing framework based on a Scotland – UAE task force formed in early 2023 and builds on a strong partnership with the Ministry of Economy.
It was shared that one of the key outcomes in 2024 will be the delivery of a dedicated business forum that brings together businesses from Scotland and the UAE to drive forward key economic opportunities.
Commenting on the agreement, Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy, Neil Gray, said: “I welcome this progress in further developing Scotland’s relationship with the UAE.
“Collaboration with UAE and other countries to deepen our economic relations, meet our shared green energy goals, and promote a just transition has never been more important.
“I look forward to this agreement helping us deliver a more sustainable and prosperous economy.”
His Excellency, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, added: “The UAE and Scotland are increasingly like-minded partners, two nations who are leveraging technology, innovation, investment and talent to transform our economies and deliver new chapters of success.
“As we pursue a knowledge economy, one capable of embracing the possibilities of the next 50 years, it is important to exchange insights, expertise and experiences with nations on a similar growth trajectory, and establish joint initiatives in the public, private and academic arenas that can further our economic diversification ambitions. This memorandum signals our intent to deepen our collaboration with Scotland, and build a partnership of long-term benefit.”
The agreement was signed during Gray’s visit to the UAE, where he is currently leading a programme of business engagements ahead of Scotland’s participation in COP28 next month.