Abu Dhabi and Japan Deepen Economic Partnership in 2025
Abu Dhabi has taken a significant step in strengthening its global economic relationships by sending a high-level delegation to Japan, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). Organised in collaboration with the UAE Embassy in Tokyo, this initiative reflects the nation’s unified and strategic approach to deepening economic and investment ties with Japan—a long-standing partner of over six decades.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation Across Key Industries
The economic delegation brings together senior government officials and executives from both public and private sectors. Notable participants include representatives from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi Customs, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI), ADNOC, KEZAD, Hub71, Abu Dhabi Airports, and leading companies from diverse industries.
Chairman of ADDED, Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, emphasized the strategic intent of the visit, stating, “Abu Dhabi’s soaring ‘Falcon Economy’ is solidifying the emirate’s status as a rising economic powerhouse and a premier destination for global talent, high-value investments, and world-class enterprises.” He added that Abu Dhabi is committed to future-proofing its economy by forming strong global partnerships, investing in advanced industries, and supporting innovation and entrepreneurship.
A Longstanding Relationship with Japan
Japan holds a significant place in the UAE’s international trade and investment portfolio. Over the past five years, bilateral trade between the UAE and Japan has grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9 percent. UAE’s non-oil exports to Japan increased at a CAGR of 8.8 percent, and imports grew at a CAGR of 12.2 percent. Moreover, investments from the UAE into Japan have more than doubled, while the UAE has attracted more than 80% of Japanese investments in the Middle East.
Al Zaabi reiterated the importance of these developments, stating, “This visit is a testament to our commitment to take this partnership to new heights, with plans to deepen cooperation in clean energy, hydrogen, artificial intelligence, life sciences, and next-generation technologies.”
Momentum Builds for Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
The bilateral relationship between the UAE and Japan is expected to gain further momentum with the upcoming UAE-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), anticipated to be finalized later this year. The agreement aims to unlock new opportunities across sectors, encourage the exchange of expertise, and create new market access for businesses from both countries.
This development marks a significant milestone, promising to expand trade and investment corridors while promoting long-term cooperation in future-focused industries.
Key Events and Strategic Forums in Japan
During the visit, the delegation is set to participate in a series of prominent events, including Expo 2025 Osaka and SusHi Tech – Tokyo. Another key event will be the 11th Abu Dhabi Japan Economic Council (ADJEC) meeting. These engagements are expected to catalyze new initiatives and strategic collaborations.
One of the main highlights is the launch of the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) in Tokyo on 9th May 2025. Organised by ADIO and ADGM, this event will provide a platform for business leaders, top CEOs, and global investors to engage with one of the MENA region’s fastest-growing economies. With keynote speeches, expert panel discussions, and high-level dialogues, the forum aims to showcase Abu Dhabi’s strategic investment clusters.
The Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industries (SAVI) cluster, AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance (AGWA) cluster, and the newly introduced Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) cluster will be key focus areas, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s diversified economic strategy.
A Dedicated Forum to Foster Business Connectivity
In collaboration with ADGM and ADIO, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) will host the Abu Dhabi–Japan Business Connect forum on 8th May 2025. This high-profile gathering aims to connect government officials and industry leaders from both regions, encouraging dialogue on international partnerships and investment opportunities.
The forum is a critical effort in reinforcing business connectivity, with the goal of unlocking collaborative ventures that contribute to shared prosperity and innovation-driven growth.
Ambassador Highlights Shared Strategic Vision
Shihab Ahmed Al Faheem, the UAE Ambassador to Japan, emphasized the strategic alignment between Abu Dhabi’s key sectors and Japan’s technological capabilities. “This visit reflects the deep-rooted and forward-looking partnership between Abu Dhabi and Japan,” he said. “Japan’s expertise in digital transformation, technology, sustainable mobility, and industrial automation complements Abu Dhabi’s strategic sectors. Together, we share a vision for a knowledge-based, net-zero future.”
He added that the CEPA agreement is expected to significantly improve market access and boost investment flows between the two nations. “The UAE Embassy in Tokyo is proud to support this delegation and we look forward to deepening our engagement with Japanese partners to drive long-term sustainable growth.”
A History of Successful Collaboration
Since its establishment in 2011, the Abu Dhabi Japan Economic Council (ADJEC) has served as a vital platform for promoting bilateral economic collaboration. Co-chaired by ADDED and the Japan Cooperation Centre for the Middle East (JCCME), ADJEC has played a key role in strengthening ties across a wide range of sectors.
Currently, JCCME member companies active in Abu Dhabi hold a total capital investment of AED106 billion, contributing to sectors including oil and gas, contracting, retail, consulting, education, and heavy machinery manufacturing.
New Chapters for Abu Dhabi Investment Forum
Following successful events in cities such as London, Beijing, and Shanghai, the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) is poised to make a significant impact in Japan. The Tokyo edition is set to highlight Abu Dhabi’s economic vision, focusing on strategic areas that align with Japan’s strengths in research and innovation.
As part of this initiative, the forum will host interactive sessions that explore potential joint ventures and showcase the benefits of investing in Abu Dhabi. These discussions will serve to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s positioning as a global destination for sustainable investment and innovation.
Driving Future-Ready Collaboration
The Abu Dhabi delegation’s visit to Japan comes at a time when global economic partnerships are being reshaped by innovation and the need for sustainability. With a clear focus on advanced industries, future technologies, and knowledge-based collaboration, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation.
By engaging with Japan—an economy known for its technological leadership and resilience—Abu Dhabi aims to leverage shared values and economic synergies. This mutually beneficial partnership is set to enable deeper integration in areas such as clean tech, AI, life sciences, and next-generation infrastructure.
A Strategic Step Toward Economic Transformation
Abu Dhabi’s economic delegation to Japan symbolizes more than a diplomatic visit; it represents a strategic move to solidify economic transformation through robust global partnerships. As the emirate continues to pursue innovation, talent attraction, and diversified growth, its collaboration with Japan offers a blueprint for sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
With strong institutional support, deep-rooted bilateral ties, and the momentum of upcoming agreements like CEPA, the Abu Dhabi-Japan relationship is set to flourish. This delegation is a key moment in that journey—highlighting the emirate’s readiness to lead in the global economic landscape.
