UAE Backs GCC Economic Integration for Regional Growth
The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its strong commitment to advancing economic integration within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This commitment was highlighted through its active participation in the 123rd Ministerial Meeting of the GCC Financial and Economic Cooperation Committee, held in Kuwait. The meeting convened Finance Ministers from GCC countries to address regional economic priorities and align strategic goals in an increasingly dynamic global economy.
Representing the UAE was Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, who was accompanied by a high-level delegation. The UAE’s delegation included Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director-General of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), and Ali Abdullah Sharafi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for International Financial Relations. Representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Federal Tax Authority, and the Federal Authority for Identity and Nationality, Customs and Port Security were also present.
Strengthening Regional Economic Ties Through Coordinated Financial Policies
The 123rd Ministerial Meeting focused on enhancing regional cooperation by aligning financial and economic strategies. This included reviewing the outcomes of the 84th meeting of the Committee of Governors of Central Banks in the GCC, discussions on the GCC Customs Union Authority, and follow-ups from the 14th meeting of the Committee of Heads and Directors of Tax Departments in the GCC.
Ministers placed particular emphasis on the Gulf Common Market initiative, which seeks to facilitate the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor among member states. The GCC’s long-term goal is to create a single, unified economic bloc capable of competing on a global scale. One of the key updates shared at the meeting was progress made following a recent joint event held by the UAE Ministry of Finance and the GCC General Secretariat during the World Government Summit in February 2025.
Strategic Dialogue on Regional Economic Roadmap to 2025
The roadmap for GCC economic unity by 2025 was a central topic of discussion. Delegates explored the vision and challenges associated with achieving deeper regional integration. Central to this conversation was the development of institutional frameworks that can support cross-border investment, taxation alignment, and customs standardization.
The GCC Statistical Centre presented a comprehensive analysis on the current status of the Gulf Common Market, providing insights into integration benchmarks and regional economic indicators. Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini highlighted the importance of institutionalizing cooperation in customs and taxation frameworks, which will enhance trade efficiency and economic growth throughout the region.
UAE Calls for Enhanced Institutional Integration and Investment Climate
Al Hussaini emphasized the need for rapid institutional integration, particularly in the fields of finance, taxation, and customs. He noted that harmonizing these areas will make the region more attractive to investors and provide a unified framework for sustainable development.
According to the minister, a unified economic platform will reduce redundancies, streamline regulations, and foster business confidence. The UAE supports initiatives that build a cohesive policy environment across the GCC, encouraging innovation and facilitating the expansion of regional and international businesses.
Elevating the GCC’s Role in the Global Economy
During the discussions, ministers exchanged insights on how to strengthen the GCC’s global economic presence. The conversation focused on creating executive plans that would enhance the resilience of Gulf economies and enable them to respond effectively to global economic shifts. Topics included fiscal stability, digital transformation, and diversification strategies.
The UAE reiterated its commitment to ensuring that financial cooperation among GCC countries is not only strategic but also forward-looking. This entails adopting digital solutions for taxation and customs, improving policy transparency, and creating reliable economic forecasts. These strategies aim to build investor trust and encourage long-term partnerships within the region.
UAE Leads Regional Workshop on Crisis Forecasting and Emergency Management
In alignment with these priorities, the UAE Ministry of Finance organized a workshop in Dubai focused on crisis forecasting and emergency planning. The event, held two days before the ministerial meeting, included participants from federal and local government institutions, academic experts, and international advisors.
The workshop, led by Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, aimed to enhance institutional readiness and build internal capabilities for strategic foresight. Attendees included assistant undersecretaries, department heads, and representatives from the American University of Sharjah.
Promoting Proactive Governance and Strategic Readiness
AlKhoori stressed the importance of developing frameworks for crisis management and long-term economic forecasting. He noted that these initiatives support the UAE’s efforts to sustain efficient public services and respond to unforeseen global events with agility and confidence.
The workshop served as a knowledge exchange platform, sharing best practices for emergency response and government continuity. It also highlighted the value of integrated planning between different government entities, promoting a culture of resilience throughout the public sector.
Building a Culture of Agility and Long-Term Planning
The UAE’s vision includes embedding a culture of readiness within all levels of government. AlKhoori stated that fostering the ability to make quick, informed decisions is crucial for maintaining stability during crises. He added that government institutions must be empowered to operate efficiently under pressure, using foresight tools to predict and prepare for emerging risks.
Such strategic planning contributes to a more adaptable governance model, ensuring that the UAE remains competitive and responsive in a rapidly evolving global economy. The country aims to set a regional benchmark for preparedness, integrating forward-thinking policies into its national development agenda.
GCC Unity as a Catalyst for Sustainable Growth and Prosperity
The outcomes of the 123rd GCC Ministerial Meeting reflect a shared vision among Gulf countries to enhance their collective economic future. With ongoing cooperation in financial policy, taxation, customs, and investment strategies, the region is laying the foundation for sustainable growth.
The UAE continues to play a pivotal role in promoting regional unity through strategic planning and institutional support. Its efforts are helping to bridge gaps in policy implementation, encourage cross-border economic activities, and foster innovation ecosystems that benefit all GCC states.
UAE’s Commitment to Regional Leadership and Cooperation
The UAE’s active engagement in GCC economic discussions and its domestic efforts to enhance crisis forecasting underscore a strong dedication to regional leadership. By participating in strategic dialogues and hosting capacity-building workshops, the UAE is reinforcing its role as a hub for policy innovation and regional cooperation.
Through integrated planning, shared visions, and cooperative frameworks, the GCC is on a promising path toward economic unity. The UAE’s contributions to this journey highlight its forward-looking approach, promoting regional prosperity and ensuring that the Gulf remains resilient, competitive, and united in the face of global challenges.
