Canada’s push to diversify global trade relationships took a decisive step forward this month as Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, concluded a productive visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reinforcing Canada’s growing economic footprint in the Gulf region.
Wrapping up on January 13, 2026, the visit brought together senior Canadian officials, a high-level business delegation, and key Emirati leaders, underscoring the Government of Canada’s commitment to expanding market access, strengthening bilateral investment, and enhancing Canada’s global competitiveness.
The mission built directly on the momentum created by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s signing of a commercial agreement between Canadian firm Alexa Translations and Al Tamimi & Company, one of the Middle East’s leading law firms. The contract will deliver AI-powered legal translation solutions, showcasing Canadian innovation in artificial intelligence while addressing the practical needs of global legal and business communities.
The trip also generated a series of concrete commercial announcements signaling increased Canadian investment and presence in the UAE. National Bank of Canada confirmed plans to open an office in the Dubai International Financial Centre, while Novisto announced it will establish a new office in Dubai Silicon Oasis. Canadian manufacturer Superheat further announced the registration of its Middle East manufacturing entity in the UAE, strengthening regional industrial capacity.
High-Level Engagement Across Government and Industry
Minister Sidhu’s visit featured a robust schedule of meetings with senior government officials and business leaders, aimed at reinforcing bilateral trade and investment ties. Engagements included discussions with Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Envoy to Canada of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of Dubai Chambers; Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World; and Khaled Al Shamlan Al Marri, CEO of Real Assets at Mubadala Investment Company.
The Minister also met with Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, to discuss the accelerating Canada–UAE economic relationship. Topics included a planned UAE business delegation visit to Canada later this year, the signing of the Canada–UAE Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement during Prime Minister Carney’s Gulf visit in November 2025, and the launch of negotiations toward a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA). Once concluded, CEPA would reduce tariffs, cut red tape, and expand market access for Canadian exporters of goods and services.
Showcasing Canadian Strengths in a Strategic Market
Beyond formal negotiations, Minister Sidhu engaged directly with partners such as the Canada-UAE Business Council and members of Dubai’s business community. These sessions highlighted Canada’s competitive strengths across AI, advanced manufacturing and aerospace, energy, financial services, infrastructure, and mining—while providing Canadian firms with valuable insight into regional opportunities.
The accompanying Canadian business delegation reflected this diversity, bringing together companies operating in information and communications technology and AI, clean technology and energy, and infrastructure.
Reflecting on the visit, Minister Sidhu emphasized the practical focus of Canada’s approach:
“From advancing trade agreement negotiations to engaging directly with industry leaders across key sectors, we’re taking concrete steps to create new commercial opportunities for Canadian businesses and industries. Canada’s partnership with the UAE and the wider Gulf region grows stronger every year, reflecting our shared goal of deeper economic collaboration. I look forward to building on this momentum and to continuing to showcase the innovation, talent and expertise Canada brings to the world.”
A Clear Signal of Global Ambition
Together, the Prime Minister’s and Minister’s recent trips to the UAE send a clear signal: Canada is actively positioning itself as a reliable, innovative, and competitive partner in one of the world’s most dynamic economic regions. As trade ties deepen and commercial activity accelerates, Canadian companies are increasingly well placed to compete—and succeed—on the global stage.
