Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has emphasized the potential for enhanced business and investment relations between Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), following discussions in Abu Dhabi on October 20 with UAE business leaders. Wong’s call for deeper ties highlights opportunities for companies and investors from both nations to expand cooperation and build on existing governmental partnerships.
During a meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Wong and the Crown Prince explored shared priorities, with a focus on exchanging expertise. Wong underscored the UAE’s strong capabilities in the energy sector, including oil, gas, renewable energy, and nuclear power, as well as its increasing investments in artificial intelligence and defense technology. These sectors, according to Wong, offer opportunities for both countries to leverage their strengths, develop new partnerships, and explore emerging industries.
The economic relationship between Singapore and the UAE remains significant, with bilateral trade in goods reaching $27.9 billion in 2025 and trade in services totaling $12.8 billion in 2024. This makes the UAE Singapore’s largest trading partner in the Middle East. The two countries have continued to strengthen their economic cooperation through bilateral business forums and investment initiatives, reflecting a shared interest in expanding commercial links amid evolving global economic conditions.
The ongoing discussions and initiatives between Singapore and the UAE aim to identify new opportunities for collaboration, adapting to the changing global economic landscape. By fostering stronger connections between businesses and investors, both nations seek to enhance their economic ties and explore new avenues for growth.
