Davos 2026: UAE Wants to “Build Bridges” in Global Trade, Says Al Zeyoudi
At the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, the United Arab Emirates said it wants to help connect global economies and reduce trade tensions. The UAE’s Minister of Foreign Trade, Thani Al Zeyoudi, said the country aims to “build bridges” by opening markets, supporting global trade rules, and making sure both rich and developing countries benefit from international trade.
Speaking on Thursday, Al Zeyoudi explained that the UAE believes open and fair trade is important, especially at a time when many countries are becoming more focused on their own interests. He said global trade works best when countries cooperate and follow common rules.
The discussion took place during a high-level session with Simon Evenett, a professor of Geopolitics and Strategy at IMD. They talked about how open, rules-based trade can continue as global supply chains change and become more divided.
Al Zeyoudi said that as some major trading powers turn inward, the global economy needs flexible and trustworthy countries to keep cooperation alive across regions. He stressed that the UAE is ready to play this role by working with many partners and staying open to trade.
UAE’s open trade strategy
The minister highlighted that the UAE’s trade policy focuses on openness, strong partnerships, and flexibility. He pointed to the country’s growing number of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), which aim to reduce trade barriers and encourage investment.
Because of its location and policies, the UAE acts as a trade hub connecting East and West. According to Al Zeyoudi, this makes the country an important platform for dialogue, business growth, and practical trade solutions.
Modernising global trade
Al Zeyoudi also spoke about the UAE’s Future of Investment and Trade Partnership initiative. This programme is designed to update global trade rules and make it easier for investments to move across borders.
The initiative also focuses on modern challenges such as digital trade, stronger supply chains, and sustainable economic growth. He said these efforts show how countries can keep trade open while adapting to changes in the global economy.
Trust and predictability, he added, are essential for businesses to invest and grow with confidence.
Global role of smaller economies
Simon Evenett placed the UAE’s approach in a wider global context. He said that economic power is now more spread out, giving smaller and mid-sized countries a bigger role in stabilising global trade.
Evenett described the UAE as an example of how proactive diplomacy and open trade policies can help maintain confidence in global commerce, even during times of uncertainty.
The session also highlighted the need for trade policies to support wider economic goals, such as attracting investment, securing supply chains, and promoting sustainable development.
Published: 23th January 2026
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