In a bid to revitalize its struggling economy, the Cuban government is actively pursuing closer ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a strategic partner renowned for its financial strength and international influence. On July 5, the two nations convened their inaugural Joint Economic Committee meeting in Dubai, aiming to unlock new opportunities in pivotal sectors such as tourism, agriculture, biotechnology, and food security, as reported by the economic and business outlet, Zawya.
This important meeting gathered high-ranking officials from both governments, including Cuba's First Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade, Carlos Luis Jorge Méndez, and his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh. The encounter is seen as a "crucial step" in the economic rapprochement strategy between Havana and Abu Dhabi.
During the committee session, both parties committed to enhancing bilateral cooperation through tourism exhibitions, business forums, and a framework designed to facilitate investments in strategic sectors. Tourism was highlighted as a key pillar, with a focus on joint destination promotion, digital innovation in the sector, and the development of human capital.
Food security also stands prominently on the agenda. Confronted with a chronic shortage of basic goods, Cuba is seeking partnerships to bolster its agricultural output, adopt agricultural technologies, and access processed foods. The biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, sectors deemed to have "high added value" by the regime, were also identified as areas of mutual interest.
The UAE has emerged as a dynamic partner for the Cuban regime outside the traditional Caracas-Moscow axis. In November 2023, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel made his first official visit to the Gulf nation, meeting with the Emirati president and participating in COP28. This was followed by a return visit in February 2024 by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero to attend the World Government Summit and further the agreements reached.
Both visits aimed at securing investments in critical areas like food production, tourism, energy, and health. Additional data indicate that non-oil trade between Cuba and the UAE exceeded $39 million in 2024, with a 5.6% increase in the first quarter of 2025, according to official figures. Currently, over 825 Cuban brands operate in the Emirati market, reflecting a shared interest in strengthening economic ties.
Frequently Asked Questions on Cuba-UAE Economic Relations
What sectors are Cuba and UAE focusing on for economic collaboration?
Cuba and the UAE are focusing on tourism, agriculture, biotechnology, and food security as key sectors for economic collaboration.
How much did non-oil trade between Cuba and UAE grow in 2025?
In the first quarter of 2025, non-oil trade between Cuba and the UAE grew by 5.6%.
Why is food security a significant focus for Cuba?
Food security is a major concern for Cuba due to its chronic shortage of basic goods, driving the need for partnerships to enhance agricultural productivity and access to processed foods.