Deputy first minister Kate Forbes heads to UAE for four-day trade mission

Deputy first minister Kate Forbes is set to head to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on a trade mission.

Forbes will meet senior government ministers during the four-day trip to mark the second Scotland Week UAE, in the hopes of opening doors for Scottish firms.

The trip is also hoped to boost inward investment.

Speaking ahead of the visit, she said: “Scotland Week UAE is about creating real opportunities for Scottish businesses to grow and trade internationally, while attracting investment that will create jobs and prosperity at home.

“In the face of global economic uncertainty and barriers to trade, including recent USA tariff threats and Scotland’s removal from the European Single Market, we are looking to strengthen relationships with new and emerging markets.

“The successful Investopia Global investment event in Edinburgh in December built momentum for deeper collaboration with UAE partners and Scotland Week UAE will show Scotland is open for business.

“We share strong ambitions with the UAE in clean energy, science and technology and innovation.

“Scotland exported £548m in goods to the UAE in 2023 and there is huge potential for partnership in sectors such as critical tech, food and drink and research.”