UK PM Keir Starmer to visit Saudi Arabia, UAE to enhance investments
Focus on Investments and Regional Issues
UK PM Keir Starmer to Visit Saudi Arabia and UAE to Strengthen Gulf Ties
As part of Britain’s continuous attempts to strengthen its ties with the wealthy Gulf states, reports said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will travel to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) next month.
Focus on Investments and Regional Issues
The visit aims to attract substantial investments from the Gulf region, particularly in energy projects led by the UAE. Discussions are also expected to address pressing regional issues, including the ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Israel, and Lebanon.
Strengthening Gulf Relations
Since the Labour Party won the UK general election in July, this is Starmer’s first trip to the Gulf. Repairing poor relations with the United Arab Emirates during the previous Conservative government has been a top priority for the Starmer administration.
Broader Diplomatic Engagement
The visit coincides with more extensive diplomatic meetings with leaders of the Gulf. On December 3–4, King Charles and Queen Camilla will receive Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, at Buckingham Palace for a state visit. King Charles recently hosted King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain at Windsor Castle.
Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, is also rumored to be visiting London next year, though no dates have been confirmed.
UK-Gulf Free Trade Agreement Development
In order to further talks for a free trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which consists of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, Britain’s trade ministers traveled to the Gulf in September.
A free trade deal is projected to boost the UK economy by £1.6 billion ($2.1 billion) in the long term, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.
Official Comments Awaited
While Starmer’s visit has not been officially announced, sources confirmed his plans on the condition of anonymity. Starmer’s office has yet to respond to media inquiries, and the news of his visit was initially reported by the Financial Times.
This high-level diplomatic engagement underscores Britain’s commitment to fostering economic partnerships and addressing geopolitical challenges in the Gulf region.
