Dubai Hosts First UAE–Russia Forum to Expand Economic Cooperation

The First UAE–Russia Business Forum opened today in Dubai, marking an important moment for business cooperation between the two countries. The event is organised by the Russia–UAE Business Council along with the Roscongress Foundation and supported by Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade and Marathon Investment Group. The forum is expected to become an annual platform that brings together major companies, investment groups, ministries and technology startups from both nations. It coincides with the 12th meeting of the Intergovernmental Russia–UAE Commission on Trade, Economic and Technical Cooperation.

In recent years, trade between the UAE and Russia has grown strongly, and joint projects have expanded in areas such as manufacturing, logistics, transportation, agriculture, digital technologies, healthcare and investment growth. Both countries are now working together not only in traditional sectors but also in modern industries that require innovative cooperation models. The forum aims to support these efforts by creating new opportunities for long-term development.

A key part of the event is the main plenary session, titled “Architecture of Long-Term Growth: New Opportunities for Both Countries.” During this session, Alexander Vinokurov, Chairman of the Russia–UAE Business Council, will present the Council’s strategy for strengthening economic partnerships. Senior figures taking part include UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Russian Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov, and leaders from major organisations such as DP World, VTB Bank and Gazprom-Media. Their discussions will focus on building deeper cooperation and unlocking the economic potential of both nations.

The forum also features several panel discussions, beginning with a session on innovation called “Russia–UAE Innovation Track: A New Era of Technological Partnership.” This session brings together experts from the Dubai Future Foundation, VisionLabs, Promobot, Invest in Sharjah and other organisations. One of the main announcements is the launch of the first accelerator programme designed to support Russian tech companies and startups in establishing a technology ecosystem within the UAE.

Another important session will focus on strengthening investment cooperation. Hosted by Investment Majlis, the Strategic Co-Investment Dialogue will introduce new tools for project support and highlight plans for creating a dedicated Russia–UAE investment platform. The discussions will help connect strategic investors and specialised funds in both countries, supporting long-term business partnerships.

The business programme will conclude with a discussion titled “Russia and the UAE: Shaping the Ecosystem of Trade and Logistics of the Future.” Experts from Emirates Airlines, DP World, RAKEZ, KEZAD, FESCO and other key organisations will examine ways to improve export corridors, diversify trade routes and develop sustainable multimodal logistics solutions. This session aims to support smoother trade logistics and strengthen the economic link between the UAE and Russia.

The forum highlights the strong commitment of both countries to deepen their cooperation in trade, investment, innovation and logistics. It reflects a shared vision for long-term strategic growth and a future built on strong business partnerships.