At the 34th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) officially launched the UAE Economic Diplomacy Report for 2024–2025, providing a comprehensive overview of the UAE’s growing role in global economic cooperation. The event, held at AGDA’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, highlighted the country’s leadership in economic diplomacy, exploring how the UAE has successfully leveraged trade, aid, and investment to build stronger global partnerships and foster sustainable development.
The report underscores economic diplomacy as a key pillar of the UAE’s foreign policy, demonstrating how the nation utilizes its strategic geographic position to facilitate frictionless trade with global markets. Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the Minister of State for Foreign Trade, was a prominent figure at the event, emphasizing the UAE’s open and outward-looking approach, which has been central to its exponential growth over the past five decades.
Dr. Zeyoudi commented, “The UAE’s economic ambitions are founded on trade with leading markets, high-impact investments that prioritize knowledge sharing, and the attraction of global talent. We are a bridge between East and West, fostering the exchange of capital and supporting emerging economies in global supply chains.” 
The seminar highlighted the UAE’s role in shaping the future of global economic frameworks, with discussions focusing on key areas such as the global economic outlook, the UAE’s participation in BRICS and the New Development Bank, and the UAE’s commitment to advancing global trade through initiatives like the WTO’s Abu Dhabi Ministerial Declaration.
Ahmed Bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State, also reflected on the UAE’s long-term vision, stating, “The UAE continues to lead in promoting inclusive partnerships and resilience in the global economy. Modern diplomacy is about building strategic alliances that foster innovation and ensure long-term prosperity.”
Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of AGDA, emphasized the importance of economic diplomacy in empowering nations to shape global relations through innovation and cooperation. He noted that the UAE’s approach was a model for building inclusive growth and impactful partnerships that enhance its global standing.
The report also serves as an educational resource for the next generation of diplomats. Dr. Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director-General of AGDA, mentioned that it equips future leaders with a deeper understanding of how global economies interact and evolve, helping them navigate the complexities of international relations.
Dr. Ahmad Rashad, Assistant Professor at AGDA, highlighted that the report is an essential tool for building economic literacy among diplomats, enabling them to respond proactively to global shifts and forge long-term strategic partnerships that advance the UAE’s interests on the world stage.
The UAE Economic Diplomacy Report not only celebrates the country’s achievements in economic diplomacy but also strengthens its commitment to sustainable development, economic diversification, and the growth of global influence through cooperation and foresight.
