In a significant move to strengthen bilateral relations, Canada has welcomed His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), for a high-level visit on June 18-20, 2025. The visit marked an important step forward in deepening cooperation between the two nations, particularly in areas of trade, innovation, and international development.
During his visit, Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand met with Sheikh Abdullah to discuss key areas of cooperation, reinforcing the strong ties between Canada and the UAE. This was followed by meetings with Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, and Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, who discussed opportunities for collaboration on AI, trade diversification, and economic growth.
Minister Sidhu also met with his counterpart, H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, U.A.E. Minister of State for Foreign Trade, to advance economic opportunities as part of Canada’s commitment to trade diversification. The two ministers discussed the recent opening of the Dubai Chambers office in Toronto, which will help unlock new opportunities for Canadian and Emirati businesses.
The visit also provided an opportunity for Minister Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), to meet with Reem Al Hashimy, U.A.E.’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, to discuss relief efforts in Gaza and potential development cooperation between Canada and the UAE.
Through a joint statement between Canada and the UAE, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across trade, investment, innovation, people-to-people ties, international development, and regional peace and security. Growing Canada’s commercial ties with countries like the UAE builds on Canada’s trade diversification strategy, creating new opportunities for Canadian businesses.
“The visit of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Canada emphasizes the growing partnership between Canada and the U.A.E., especially at this time of global and economic uncertainty,” said Minister Anand. “Canada looks forward to continuing to work with the U.A.E. on deepening our two countries’ strategic and commercial relationship.”
“Canada and the U.A.E. are long-standing partners with a deep, strategic and growing economic relationship,” added Minister Sidhu. “As global hubs for innovation, investment and trade, our countries are well positioned to lead together in shaping a more prosperous and sustainable future. We are committed to unlocking new opportunities across key sectors—benefiting businesses, workers and communities in both countries.”
The visit comes amid growing global uncertainty, and Canada’s decision to deepen diplomatic ties with the UAE marks an important step forward in building partnerships that will drive economic growth, innovation, and stability.
Key Facts About Canada-UAE Relations
- In 2024, Canada and the UAE celebrated their 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
- It is estimated that 60,000 Canadians live and work in the UAE.
- In 2024, Canada-UAE two-way merchandise trade was valued at $3.4 billion, with $2.6 billion in exports and $800 million in imports.
Conclusion
Canada’s decision to deepen diplomatic ties with the UAE marks an important step forward in building partnerships that will drive economic growth, innovation, and stability. As global uncertainty continues to grow, Canada’s commitment to trade diversification and cooperation with countries like the UAE is essential for unlocking new opportunities and shaping a more prosperous future.