Photo Credit : WAM
United Arab Emirates has joined the State of Kuwait in celebrating Kuwait’s National Day on February 25, underscoring the strong fraternal bonds and strategic partnership that unite the two Gulf nations.
The occasion highlights decades of close cooperation between the leadership and peoples of both countries, built on shared history, mutual respect, and common regional interests.
Week-Long Celebrations Across the UAE
In line with directives from the UAE leadership, nationwide celebrations were held from January 29 to February 4, 2026, across all emirates under the theme “UAE and Kuwait: Brothers Forever.”
The week-long programme reflected the UAE’s appreciation for Kuwait and reaffirmed the deep-rooted ties linking the two nations. Events across the country showcased cultural solidarity and emphasized the enduring brotherhood between Emiratis and Kuwaitis.
Leadership Driving Bilateral Progress
Bilateral relations continue to expand under the guidance of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait.
Both leaders have consistently supported initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation across political, economic, and social sectors.
A key mechanism advancing this partnership is the UAE–Kuwait Joint Higher Committee, which recently held its sixth session in Kuwait. The meeting resulted in the signing of five memoranda of understanding and executive programmes, covering:
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Consumer protection and commercial control
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Tourism cooperation (2026–2028)
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Standardisation activities (2026–2028)
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Promoting integrity and combating corruption
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Public sector oversight and auditing
These agreements reflect a shared commitment to governance, transparency, and sustainable development.
Expanding Trade and Economic Cooperation
Economic ties between the two countries remain robust and steadily growing.
Over the past decade, total bilateral trade between 2013 and 2022 reached AED317 billion. This includes:
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AED63 billion in imports
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AED85.5 billion in non-oil exports
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AED168.5 billion in re-exports
Non-oil trade during the first nine months of 2025 stood at AED38.8 billion, marking a 7.6 percent increase compared to the same period the previous year.
In the third quarter of 2025:
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UAE imports from Kuwait rose by 3.6 percent
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Re-exports increased by 4 percent
Kuwait remains one of the UAE’s key trading partners. The UAE is Kuwait’s second-largest trading partner globally and its largest Arab and Gulf partner, accounting for nearly 20 percent of Kuwait’s non-oil exports.
Tourism and Air Connectivity on the Rise
Tourism continues to play a central role in strengthening economic and social ties.
In 2025, the number of Kuwaiti visitors to the UAE reached 400,000, representing an increase of nearly 6 percent compared to 2024. Enhanced air connectivity supports this growth, with 174 direct weekly flights operated by national carriers between the two countries.
The steady rise in visitor numbers reflects the strong people-to-people connection and ease of travel between the two Gulf states.
Cultural and Educational Exchange
Cultural collaboration remains another important pillar of UAE–Kuwait relations. Both nations have signed multiple agreements to exchange expertise and promote joint initiatives in arts, heritage, and knowledge-sharing.
Educational ties are also expanding. More than 1,725 Kuwaiti students are currently enrolled in UAE universities, reinforcing academic cooperation and strengthening long-term social links.
A Partnership Rooted in Brotherhood
As Kuwait marks its National Day, the UAE’s participation highlights more than a diplomatic gesture. It reflects a partnership rooted in shared values, economic integration, and a collective vision for regional stability and prosperity.
