The UAE and France established formal diplomatic relations in 1971, shortly after the UAE was founded.
Both countries see each other as strategic partners, especially in terms of Middle Eastern stability and counterterrorism.
High-level visits are frequent and French presidents and UAE leaders often exchange visits, reflecting the strength of the alliance.
Trade Partners
France is also a major trade partner for the UAE in Europe, with bilateral trade that worth billions of euros annually.
In addition to over 600 French companies operating in the UAE.
Particularly in sectors like aerospace, energy, infrastructure, and retail (Carrefour, TotalEnergies, Thales, etc.).
The UAE is also investing in France, particularly in real estate, luxury sectors, and tech startups.
Both the UAE and France align on goals like:
- Climate change and clean energy (e.g., working together on COP28, green hydrogen, and renewable energy projects).
- Multilateralism and a rules-based international order.
- Aid and humanitarian support — for example, both have contributed significantly to crises in Sudan, Lebanon, and Ukraine.
Abdullah bin Zayed: “The UAE and France Share Deep Historical Ties.”
UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Thursday in Abu Dhabi.
The meeting discussed the strategic relations between the two friendly countries and ways to enhance them across various fields.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed affirmed that the UAE and France “share deep historical ties”.
Adding that “the paths of bilateral cooperation are witnessing sustainable growth and development in all fields aligned with the efforts and goals of both countries towards achieving sustainable development”.
Both sides discussed “the overall developments in the region, regional and international updates.
As well as ways to promote peace and stability and safeguard international peace and security.”
Also attending the meeting was Saeed Mubarak Al-Hajeri, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic and Commercial Affairs.
The UAE and France are more than allies; they are partners in shaping regional security, global diplomacy, and cultural exchange.
