AI among key sectors unlocked in new UAE-Canada partnerships

The UAE and Canada will expand cooperation in several key sectors, including artificial intelligence, trade and energy.

It follows UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan's official visit to Canada last week, where he held talks with Canada’s Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

The two sides emphasised the need for responsible and inclusive AI development, welcoming "ongoing dialogue between institutions and stakeholders to explore cooperation" to support "innovation and economic growth".

The two sides also announced the launch of Dubai Chambers’ first North American office in Toronto, intended to strengthen economic ties and foster new opportunities for trade and investment.

They also reviewed the ongoing work of the Canada-UAE Business Council and existing partnerships between DP World and Caisse de Depot et Placement du Quebec (CDPQ). Discussions also continued towards concluding a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA).

On climate and water issues, the two nations reaffirmed their commitment to addressing global water challenges, with a focus on technological innovation and collaboration in the lead-up to the 2026 UN Water Conference, which the UAE will co-host.

Energy cooperation also featured prominently, with both countries agreeing to deepen collaboration in clean energy, decarbonisation and mineral development.

In discussions on peace and security, Canada and the UAE called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages and unhindered humanitarian aid access. Both governments reiterated their support for a two-state solution, condemned extremism and hate speech and stressed the importance of diplomacy and respect for international law in resolving regional conflicts.

Canada also acknowledged the UAE’s humanitarian leadership, particularly in Gaza and Ukraine, including its role in aid delivery and prisoner-of-war mediation. The two nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to international development, humanitarian assistance, and long-term conflict resolution rooted in human dignity and inclusive political processes.

People-to-people ties were highlighted as a foundation of the bilateral relationship. Canada welcomed the growing number of Emirati students in Canadian universities, while the UAE recognised the contributions of more than 60,000 Canadians living and working in the Emirates. The two sides also celebrated ongoing cultural exchanges, including the “As the Sun Appears from Beyond” exhibition presented in Toronto in collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum.

The visit underscored the strengthened relations of UAE-Canada and reflected a shared commitment to building a strategic, future-focused partnership that promotes global stability, economic prosperity and mutual understanding.