At the end of November, the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, made a two-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The program included high-level meetings in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi with political leaders and key business representatives. This visit — the first presidential-level official visit to the UAE since 2015 — marked the celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
🔹 Diplomacy, technology & trade came together
President Stubb and a delegation of around 20 Finnish companies met with UAE leadership as well as major investment firms, technology companies, and industrial players.
The discussions focused on collaboration opportunities in advanced technologies (AI, space, security), clean and zero-emission solutions, sustainability, digital and industrial services, and other key innovation sectors.
Both the UAE and Finland emphasized their shared development journey: nations that have risen from modest beginnings to become high-innovation, high-development societies — creating strong alignment in values and business culture.
🔹 A strong signal — and opportunity — for Finnish companies
The visit clearly showed that the Emirates are looking to strengthen trade, technology, and investment cooperationwith Europe and the Nordic region. This creates an attractive environment for Finnish companies with expertise in cleantech, clean energy, infrastructure and smart technology, education, and services.
Dubai and other Emirates are investing heavily in development programs, infrastructure, digital innovation, and sustainability — giving Finland a real chance to become a strategic partner.
Companies that can combine Finnish technology and responsibility with local market knowledge and networks will be in a strong position to succeed.
🔹 FinGulf – Home base for Finnish companies in Dubai
FinGulf Business Park, located in Expo City Dubai, acts as an active local hub supporting Finnish companies and building networks in the UAE. President Stubb’s visit reinforces our work to strengthen the position of Finnish companies and create connections with local decision-makers, investors, and business partners.
At FinGulf, the message is clear:
📍 The time to act is now
📍 Being present opens doors that online meetings cannot
📍 Together we are stronger — Finnish quality and Emirati opportunity is a powerful combination
If your company is planning to enter the UAE market or wants to strengthen its presence in the region, we are ready to help with the right contacts, local support, workspace, and business opportunities.