Russia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a significant economic agreement aimed at boosting bilateral trade and investment. According to a report by Kommersant, the pact seeks to reduce export‑related costs and facilitate market access, simplifying conditions for service providers and lowering expenses associated with transport and other cross‑border activities.
Officials from Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development identified finance, transport, wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, and mining as key areas for cooperation. The treaty opens 64 Emirati sectors to Russian businesses, including research and development, ship and aircraft repair, rail transport, computer services, and legal services. In certain fields—such as engineering and passenger maritime transport—Russian stakes will be capped at 70 %. Companies will also be permitted to establish banks, healthcare institutions, and news agencies in UAE special economic zones.
In return, Emirati firms will gain access to 12 Russian service sectors, including healthcare, education, and hospitality, and will be allowed to open retail outlets in Russia. The agreement removes restrictions on transfers and payments related to services and trade, which is expected to significantly increase exports and mutual investment flows.
Cooperation in logistics is also a core component, with the expectation that the International North‑South Transport Corridor will be boosted. This corridor links Russia with the Middle East, East Africa, and South Asia, and is viewed as a key route for diversifying transport flows and expanding regional trade.
Mutual trade in services between Russia and the UAE was valued at $14 billion in 2024, according to ministry data. Moscow expects exports of services to the UAE to double by 2030, with imports rising at a similar pace. The ministry also forecasts that accumulated Russian investment in the UAE will grow fourfold to $25 billion, while Emirati investment in Russia will double from 2024 levels to $17 billion.
By reducing costs and increasing market access, the agreement is anticipated to drive growth and expansion in key sectors, reshaping the trade and investment landscape between the two countries in the years to come.
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