Ireland’s Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary TD arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on January 29 for a four-day trade mission organised by Enterprise Ireland to strengthen existing economic ties between Ireland and the UAE. Leading the trade mission on behalf of Enterprise Ireland, the Irish Government agency for trade and innovation, is CEO, Leo Clancy.

The UAE represents a significant growth market for Irish businesses with Irish innovation continuing to be in demand, particularly in the areas of medtech, aviation and technology. Exports by Irish companies backed by Enterprise Ireland continues to grow substantially year on year. For 2022, exports to the UAE increased by 22 per cent compared to 2021 to stand at €161.5 million (175.5 million). 

To further enhance trade collaboration between the two nations, Minister Calleary and Leo Clancy are meeting with UAE ministers, heads of organisations and business leaders to discuss the latest developments and innovation in the sectors of medtech, aviation, artificial intelligence (AI) and fintech. 

A meeting took place at Dubai Chambers which included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Enterprise Ireland and Dubai Chambers. Observed by Minister Dara Callery and Mohammad Ali bin Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, the agreement was formally signed by Leo Clancy and Saeed Al Gergawi, the Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.

The trade mission further coincides with Arab Health 2024, where the Minister will be supporting a delegation of 17 Irish health innovators participating in Ireland’s national pavilion.