The UAE-Turkey relations have witnessed significant development since 2021, shifting from a period of political divergence and regional competition to a strategic partnership that establishes a renewed regional balance. This partnership highlights the collaboration between the UAE’s “desert miracle” and Turkey’s rapid economic growth, underscoring the importance of this relationship in the regional and international landscape.
Evolution of Relations Since 2021
The UAE-Turkey relations have followed a gradual path since 2021, beginning with a phase of political tensions and transitioning to the establishment of a strategic partnership that enhances regional balance. This partnership reflects the convergence of the UAE’s development model with Turkey’s efforts to bolster its national industries, fostering cooperation between the two countries in areas such as defense and energy.
Since late 2021, summit diplomacy has been a cornerstone of rebuilding trust between the two nations, with regular high-level visits aimed at enhancing political cooperation and institutionalizing the relationship. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to Ankara marked a significant turning point in these relations, leading to tangible results in addressing common issues.
Economic Dimensions
The economic dimension has been the backbone of the UAE-Turkey partnership, with data showing that non-oil trade between the two countries has tripled since 2021. Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (KEOA), which came into effect on September 1, 2023, trade volume exceeded $16 billion last year. Both sides aim to increase bilateral trade to $40 billion over the next five years.
Recently, a currency swap agreement worth $4.9 billion was signed, reflecting both parties’ confidence in strengthening the economic partnership. With total investments exceeding $6 billion, the UAE established a $10 billion investment fund to support strategic sectors in Turkey. Moreover, Turkey is considered an attractive destination for many Emirati companies looking to capitalize on opportunities in the Turkish market.
Defense Cooperation
Defense cooperation between the UAE and Turkey has evolved since 2021 through three phases, starting with rebuilding trust and extending to technical and industrial collaboration, culminating in joint defense projects of a strategic nature. Both the UAE and Turkey are influential powers in the geopolitical landscape and regional security, and experiences have shown that cooperation and mutual understanding can contribute to enhancing regional stability.
The Syrian and Libyan crises exemplify the importance of this cooperation, as political settlement efforts in these countries rely on the collaborative efforts of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, particularly the UAE and Turkey. This cooperation ensures stability and enhances capabilities on both security and economic fronts.
Future Prospects
The year 2026 is expected to bring new opportunities for attracting direct investments from the UAE to Turkey, along with the potential for agreements regarding the UAE’s acquisition of strategic assets in the financial sector. This will contribute to strengthening relations in the defense sector, considering Turkey’s advancements in developing advanced defense products. Additionally, new promising sectors such as renewable energy, technology, and artificial intelligence are emerging as opportunities for integration between the two nations.
The transformation in UAE-Turkey relations is becoming a tangible partnership that extends beyond mere commercial aspects, encompassing coordination on regional issues and crises that impact the strategic balance in the region. If this dynamic continues, the UAE and Turkey will lead the next phase of regional development.