UAE-Korea Joint Business Council Meeting Establishes Sectoral Working Groups For Enhanced Cooperation

The UAE-Korea Joint Business Council held its first meeting in Abu Dhabi, aiming to create sectoral working groups in areas like artificial intelligence and biotechnology. This initiative seeks to enhance business ties between the two nations. The Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry, along with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organised this event.

Representatives from both countries attended the meeting. From the UAE, Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Vice Chairman of the UAE Chambers, led the delegation. Ali Mohammed Al Marzouqi from ADCCI and Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadhi from Sharjah Chamber also participated. Jin Sik Yoon, Chairman of Korea International Trade Association (KITA), represented Korea alongside 65 other entities.

Al Owais highlighted the strong UAE-Korean relations as a strategic partnership based on shared interests. He noted significant progress in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and food security over recent decades. This meeting was seen as a vital platform for fostering direct dialogue between business communities from both countries.

He further emphasised that the UAE's economic model is built on openness and diversification. This approach has led to a 24.5% increase in non-oil foreign trade, reaching AED1.7 trillion in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the UAE's status as a global trade hub.

Jin Sik Yoon described the UAE as Korea’s primary strategic partner in the Middle East. He stated that the Business Council will facilitate connections among companies to explore cooperation opportunities and lead future industries globally. Korea's advanced technology and economic experience make it an ideal partner for supporting the UAE’s national vision.

Al Owais praised Korea's geographic location linking East Asia with global markets, its digital economy, and its conducive business environment. These factors position Korea as an ideal partner in future-focused sectors.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthen ties through collaborative efforts in various industries. Both nations aim to leverage their strengths for mutual benefit, ensuring sustainable growth and development across key sectors.

With inputs from WAM