The UAE will join Saudi Arabia in celebrating the Kingdom’s 94th National Day on 23 September. This act reinforces the deep, fraternal bonds between the two nations.
Strengthening Fraternal Relations
The relationship between the UAE and Saudi Arabia is a model of unity, characterized by its depth and rich history. Their collaboration spans all sectors, reinforcing their joint commitment to Gulf, Arab, and regional stability. The special bond between the leadership and people of both nations is key to fostering growth in the region.
Economic Ties Driving Growth
Economic relations between the UAE and Saudi Arabia have flourished, especially over the past decade. Non-oil trade between the two nations grew by 69%, reaching SAR 137.7 billion in 2023, compared to SAR 81.6 billion in 2013. This strong partnership is highlighted by a compound annual growth rate of 5.4% over the last ten years. Non-oil trade reached SAR 1.05 trillion from 2014 to 2023.
During the first half of 2024, trade between the two nations rose 22.5% to $17.53 billion, compared to $14.31 billion in the same period in 2023. Saudi imports from the UAE reached $10.73 billion, while UAE exports to Saudi Arabia increased by 10.26% to $6.80 billion in the first half of 2024.
Cultural Bonds Rooted in Shared Heritage
Cultural ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia run deep, reflecting strong social and geographical connections. Education plays a significant role, with Emirati students historically studying in Saudi Arabia. Today, Saudi students attend UAE universities, further solidifying these bonds.
Cultural exchanges are enhanced through various agreements, fostering intellectual collaboration between both nations’ cultural institutions. This deep-rooted connection highlights a shared history and commitment to future growth.
A Partnership for the Future
The foundation of this partnership was laid by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Their legacy continued under Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed and King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz. Today, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and King Salman bin Abdulaziz continue to elevate this partnership.
As Saudi Arabia celebrates its 94th National Day, the UAE stands as a close partner, contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030—a blueprint for a prosperous future.
