The EU and the UAE began talks for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) on 28 May 2025 to promote economic transformation in both regions.
The European Union and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) formally launched negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement on 28 May 2025.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, first agreed to launch negotiations on a free trade agreement on 10 April 2025.
The FTA aims to support the transformation of both the EU and UAE economies by advancing green and digital transitions and enhancing overall economic security.
The EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maros Sefcovic and the UAE Minister Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi reconfirmed the ambition to reach a commercially beneficial agreement and agreed on a roadmap, with substantive work set to begin as early as in June 2025.
President von der Leyen said: “The launch of EU-UAE trade talks is an important milestone. We will now work together to seal a deal that can benefit our people and businesses, bringing us closer together in a spirit of cooperation. Such an agreement would help strengthen ties between the EU and the Gulf region, offering new opportunities for EU businesses while bolstering our partnership in areas that matter to EU citizens like renewable energy and digital technologies.”
The first negotiating team meetings will focus on reducing tariffs on goods and facilitating services, digital trade and investment flows. Talks will also explore ways to boost trade in strategic sectors, such as renewable energy, green hydrogen and critical raw materials.
