Overview
On Thursday, Germany and the United Arab Emirates are scheduled to sign a suite of agreements covering investment, artificial intelligence and energy, collectively valued at several billion dollars. The announcement was made by Lana Nusseibeh, a minister of state in the UAE foreign ministry and former UN ambassador, during a press briefing in Berlin.
Trade Context
The two countries already maintain a bilateral trade relationship of approximately $15.5 billion per year, excluding oil. The forthcoming agreements are described as a new stage in relations, intended to link European industrial and technological strengths with Gulf capital, energy, and growth opportunities across the Gulf, Asia and Africa.
Agreement Details
While specific financial figures were not disclosed, the deals will include:
- A framework for technology cooperation that brings together researchers and investors to advance AI and related digital initiatives.
- Energy‑transition agreements that build on existing collaborations in renewables, hydrogen and energy‑efficiency projects.
Diplomatic Visits
The signing ceremony will take place during a visit to Berlin by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Earlier, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited the Gulf region in February, shortly before the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran, an ongoing conflict that remains unresolved.
Geopolitical Drivers
Both nations cite growing geopolitical uncertainty—particularly the war with Iran and a changed relationship with the United States—as a catalyst for expanding strategic networks and strengthening ties with existing partners.
Quote
Lana Nusseibeh told journalists: “A stronger UAE–Germany relationship can help connect European industrial and technological strengths with capital, energy and growth opportunities across the Gulf, Asia and Africa.”