UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer begins a critical multi-day visit to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia on Sunday, marking his first trip to the region since taking office in July.
The diplomatic tour aims to strengthen economic and defence partnerships with two key Middle Eastern nations.
Starmer will first arrive in the UAE, where he is scheduled to meet President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Monday, before travelling to Saudi Arabia to hold talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer aims to deepen economic partnerships in Middle East
“There is huge untapped potential in this region,” Starmer said, according to a report by Reuters. He plans to accelerate progress on the Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement and explore collaborative opportunities in research, development, and future projects.
The government highlighted the strategic importance of these partnerships, with current trade between Britain and the UAE standing at £23 billion, and trade with Saudi Arabia estimated at £17 billion, the report said.
Stability in the Middle East will feature prominently during discussions, with a particular focus on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The prime minister is expected to emphasise the need for a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid.
British trade ministers previously visited the region in September to advance free trade negotiations. A potential agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar, could increase bilateral trade by 16 percent and potentially generate £8.6 billion annually.
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