Marking the return of ‘Scotland Week UAE’, taking place from 27 to 29 January 2026, the mission is designed to strengthen economic ties and secure inward investment. The visit follows the recent launch of the Invest Scotland portal, a digital platform showcasing significant capital investment opportunities to a global audience.

Ms Forbes said: “Scotland Week UAE is about creating real opportunities for Scottish businesses to grow and trade internationally, while attracting investment that will create jobs and prosperity at home.

“In the face of global economic uncertainty and barriers to trade, including recent USA tariff threats and Scotland’s removal from the European Single Market, we are looking to strengthen relationships with new and emerging markets. 

“The successful Investopia Global investment event in Edinburgh in December built momentum for deeper collaboration with UAE partners and Scotland Week UAE will show Scotland is open for business.

“We share strong ambitions with the UAE in clean energy, science and technology and innovation. Scotland exported £548 million in goods to the UAE in 2023 and there is huge potential for partnership in sectors such as critical tech, food and drink and research.”