The United Arab Emirates and Germany have taken meaningful steps to enhance their economic partnership, following high-level talks between Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Hendrik Josef Wüst, Minister-President of Germany’s North Rhine-Westphalia. The meeting focused on strengthening trade and accelerating collaboration in areas such as technology, advanced manufacturing, and the green economy.
To build on this momentum, the meeting was followed by a business roundtable that brought together influential private sector leaders from both regions. The discussions aimed to explore mutually beneficial opportunities and establish frameworks for future partnerships.
North Rhine-Westphalia, often regarded as Germany’s economic engine, contributed US$990 billion to the nation’s GDP in 2024—approximately 20% of the country’s total output. Though historically known for its industrial base, the region is now shifting towards a knowledge-driven economy focused on digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and smart manufacturing. Research initiatives in water management and agri-tech are also key priorities.
Shared Vision Fuels Economic Synergies
The UAE’s forward-leaning approach to innovation and sustainability mirrors North Rhine-Westphalia’s evolving economic focus. Notably, Emirati investments in Germany include strategic ventures in the ammonia value chain and the development of hydrogen-based renewable energy.
Speaking on the shared vision, Dr. Thani remarked, “The UAE has long enjoyed a productive relationship with Germany, and North Rhine-Westphalia plays a central role in this partnership. From the digital economy to energy transition, we see numerous paths for collaboration. Our free-trade network also offers German businesses streamlined access to Asian and African markets.”
He emphasised that the UAE remains an attractive and open market for German enterprises, especially those keen on contributing to the nation’s innovation and industrial landscape. The roundtable, he added, will serve as a foundation for building deeper trade links and collaborative projects.
Trade Growth and Future Ambitions
In 2024, the UAE and Germany recorded non-oil trade worth US$13.8 billion—up 5.4% from the previous year. Additionally, the UAE has committed over US$1.2 billion in investment projects throughout Germany. Looking ahead, the UAE has announced its intention to begin negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the European Union, where Germany holds the position of the largest economy.
