Germany-UAE
Business Council
The Germany-UAE Business Council (GUBC) is a dynamic platform dedicated to enhancing economic cooperation between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Germany. By fostering strong partnerships across key sectors such as artificial intelligence, logistics, advanced manufacturing, energy, finance, healthcare, life science and bio technology, the GUBC promotes sustainable development, innovation, and investment opportunities.
The GUBC’s mission is to represent the shared interests of Emirati and German businesses, support long-term bilateral trade, and facilitate meaningful dialogue between companies and policymakers. With a commitment to driving growth and addressing global economic challenges, the GUBC serves as a bridge between two leading economies, unlocking new avenues for collaboration and prosperity.
The GUBC is a non-profit association and does not pursue its own commercial aims.
Chairpersons
Our dynamic and diverse team is committed to fostering strong partnerships between the UAE and Germany, driving economic growth, and promoting cross-cultural exchange. With expertise in business, diplomacy, and international relations, our leadership is dedicated to creating opportunities and facilitating collaboration between companies, institutions, and government bodies in both nations. Meet the professionals who are shaping the future of Emirati-German cooperation.
The Chairpersons:
- Jointly lead the Council and represent its interests towards high-level external stakeholders, especially from the governmental side.
- Define the overall strategy of the Council together with its members and ensure the pursuit of the association’s objectives by leveraging their individual political background and influence.
- Attract new member companies by resorting to their public recognition and personal network from the business world.
Emirati Chairperson
“Germany and the UAE share a bold vision for global progress—anchored in bi-lateral trade, shared interests and driven by innovation. Our revitalized partnership, built on the long-standing pillars of energy and industrial collaboration, unlocks vast potential across sectors. Together, we champion sustainable development, economic prosperity, and deeper cooperation that reflects our shared ambition in a rapidly changing world.”
Musabbeh Al Kaabi
Chief Executive Officer of Upstream, ADNOC
German Chairperson
“In an era of competition among global superpowers, innovative partnerships built on shared interests have never been more important. Strengthening the foundations of trade and investment between the UAE and Germany is central to deepening bilateral ties. The GUBC will serve as a trusted platform to foster connections and build confidence between leaders from both countries in politics and business.”
Günther H. Oettinger
former Vice-President of the EU Commission and Minister President
The UAE and Germany –
A Strategic Partnership
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) are Germany’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, with over 1000 German companies present in the Emirates. Meanwhile, there is immense untapped potential for deeper multisectoral business cooperation, e.g. in areas such as artificial intelligence, logistics, advanced manufacturing, energy, finance, healthcare, life science and bio technology.
This cooperation, reinforced by recent agreements on energy security and industrial promotion, is of particular importance in times of geopolitical and economic upheaval. Beyond that, both nations are striving for economic prosperity and sustainable development, with the UAE as an auspicious exporter of green hydrogen and Germany with its advanced technical expertise.
In this context the GUBC positions itself as a leading institution that harnesses the bilateral economic potential, brings together key stakeholders, and initiates extensive cooperation across all sectors.
History and Background of the GUBC
The Germany-UAE Business Council (GUBC) was conceived in 2024, thanks to the vision of H.E. Ahmed Alattar, UAE Ambassador to Germany. Recognizing the absence of a dedicated institution to foster business relations between Germany and the UAE, and inspired by successful bilateral business councils elsewhere, the initiative to establish the GUBC was swiftly set into motion.
The official launch of the GUBC took place in June 2025. Our mission is to enhance business cooperation and drive economic growth between our two nations. Despite our nascent stage, we are eager to build a thriving community and contribute significantly to the success of Emirati-German business relations in the years to come.
Overview of the organization’s structure
The Advisory Council, composed of up to 12 members, offers guidance on strategy and ensures the GUBC’s mission aligns with members’ interests. Additionally, Working Groups can be established to focus on specific topics, fostering member collaboration on key issues. Together, these bodies – supported by the organizational tasks of the GUBC secretariat – ensure the GUBC achieves its goals and promotes Emirati-German business relations effectively.
Sponsoring Opportunities
Support the Germany-UAE Business Council (GUBC) without becoming a member! Individuals and businesses can contribute financially to help advance our mission of strengthening Emirati-German economic relations. Sponsors enjoy recognition for their contributions at key events, on our platform, and through tailored acknowledgments.
Interested in donating or learning more? Contact us at secretariat@geruaebc.com