The United Arab Emirates took part in the seventh Ministerial Meeting of the GCC Economic and Development Affairs Authority, held in Kuwait on 9 October 2025, to explore ways to enhance cooperation and accelerate the implementation of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s shared economic visions.
The UAE delegation was led by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, who reiterated the country’s commitment to fostering closer economic collaboration and promoting joint initiatives that support sustainable growth and regional prosperity.
Commitment to GCC’s Unified Economic Vision
H.E. Bin Touq emphasised that the UAE remains firmly dedicated to supporting the GCC’s collective efforts, particularly in the economic and investment sectors, which are considered key drivers of the region’s long-term stability and prosperity.
“The UAE remains committed to continuing constructive work, strengthening collaboration, and developing practical insights and solutions that contribute to implementing all joint initiatives and projects,” he said.
“These efforts contribute to realizing the GCC’s objectives of sustainable growth and economic integration, embodying our shared aspiration to build a diversified, innovation-driven, and fully integrated regional economy.”
He added that GCC nations have made remarkable progress in economic diversification, building world-class infrastructure and technological ecosystems that enhance their competitiveness globally.
“By leveraging our strategic geographic position and embracing innovation, GCC countries continue to open new opportunities for partnership and investment, advancing our economies in line with global developments,” H.E. Bin Touq noted.
Advancing GCC Economic Cooperation
The meeting featured in-depth discussions on mechanisms to improve economic cooperation and integration among member states. Delegates reviewed outcomes from the Authority’s specialised and technical teams, including brainstorming workshops and panel sessions aimed at shaping the future of the GCC economy.
Key topics included progress on the GCC Customs Union, the GCC Common Market, and ongoing efforts under the GCC Economic Unity projects. Participants also examined ways to strengthen governance, documentation, and coordination of Gulf economic and development initiatives.
The Committee further reviewed the economic performance of GCC countries, evaluating growth indicators across diverse sectors such as trade, investment, and innovation. Additionally, the Authority highlighted its efforts to implement advanced digital tools and scientific methods to measure and accelerate the pace of economic integration across the region.
Driving a Unified and Future-Ready GCC Economy
The seventh Ministerial Meeting underscored the GCC’s collective ambition to create a diversified, resilient, and innovation-led regional economy, aligned with the evolving global landscape. Through enhanced collaboration, shared policies, and unified economic frameworks, the Gulf nations aim to strengthen their global standing and ensure a sustainable future for their people.
