Vienna: Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, led an Emirate delegation to the Austrian capital of Vienna. During his visit, Al Zeyoudi met his counterpart Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer, Austria's Minister for Economy, Energy, and Tourism, where he signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish the Austria-UAE High-Level Dialogue Platform and co-hosted the 2nd UAE-Austria Joint Economic Committee (JEC) Meeting. The visit aimed to strengthen the UAE's economic relations with Austria and the broader EU.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE's non-oil foreign trade with Austria reached US$2.1 billion in 2025, marking a growth of 16.4 percent compared to 2024 and an 87.7 percent increase since 2019. These figures highlight the strengthening trade ties between the two nations and their shared pursuit of deeper collaboration. Al Zeyoudi noted that the UAE serves as a gateway to global markets, emphasizing the nation's commitment to simplifying trade, modernizing supply chains, and accelerating growth opportunities for partners.
Hattmannsdorfer acknowledged the long-standing economic partnership between Austria and the UAE. He stated that the establishment of a High-Level Economic Dialogue Platform is a significant step in strengthening the connectivity between businesses, fostering innovation, investment, and sustainable growth. The meeting of the Joint Economic Committee coincides with the 50th anniversary of the bilateral agreement that laid the foundation for economic cooperation.
Over the past seven months, representatives from both public and private sectors have engaged in discussions, including business roundtables held in November 2025 and January 2026. These engagements have been crucial in fostering increased private-sector collaboration. Al Zeyoudi emphasized the evolving partnership, highlighting opportunities across high-potential sectors like technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
The JEC meeting included discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation in key areas, reaffirming both nations' commitment to fostering a conducive environment for trade and investment. The meetings have set the stage for collaborations that will drive economic growth and innovation. Both nations remain dedicated to expanding their strong economic partnership.
The JEC meeting marked the 50th anniversary of the bilateral Joint Commission on Economic, Industrial, and Technical Cooperation established on 11th March 1976, underscoring the longstanding economic relationship between the two nations. Al Zeyoudi also participated in the establishment ceremony of the new UAE-Austria Dialogue Platform, signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Hattmannsdorfer. The new body will create a platform for the private sectors of both nations to identify promising investment opportunities, align national priorities, and benchmark mutual achievements.