British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) next month to strengthen diplomatic and commercial ties with the Gulf region. The primary objective of this visit is to attract investments from Gulf sovereign wealth funds into key sectors of the UK economy, including energy and infrastructure projects such as the Sizewell C nuclear power plant.
The trade relationship between the UK and Gulf countries is substantial, with a reported value of £57 billion. Saudi Arabia, which already holds significant investments in the UK, is also considering a visit to London next year to further these economic engagements.
This trip is part of Prime Minister Starmer's broader strategy to introduce the Labour government to Gulf partners and reset relations with the UAE. It follows a series of international visits aimed at bolstering the UK's global economic partnerships. However, some Labour party members have expressed concerns regarding the amount of time the Prime Minister has spent abroad since assuming office.
In addition to economic discussions, the visit is expected to address regional issues, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israel, and Lebanon. This underscores the UK's commitment to playing a constructive role in Middle Eastern affairs.
The UK is also pursuing a free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Such an agreement could potentially boost the UK economy by £1.6 billion over the long term.
This visit represents a significant step in the UK's efforts to enhance its economic and diplomatic relationships with key partners in the Gulf region. By securing investments and fostering closer ties, the UK aims to stimulate economic growth and contribute to regional stability.
