Entering the UAE health sector The UK and the UAE have a long-standing tradition of partnership and enterprise, says Simon Penney, British Consul General for Dubai & Northern Emirates and UK Trade Commissioner for the Middle East
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ike many people, I am delighted that this year’s Arab Health is taking place. Once again, a great many UK companies will be visiting the exhibition and doing business with one of the most vibrant regions in the world. It is always a pleasure to welcome trade missions and help them make the most of the opportunities that exist here.
As the economy matures, it is becoming more complicated to enter the healthcare market. The UAE is clear about its requirements in the sector, and UK companies should understand that a quick profit is not the name of the game – rather, the UAE is looking for partners that intend to commit for the long term.
Recently, we were delighted to support the signing of two MOUs between the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi, AstraZeneca and GSK. The UK and the UAE share an important trade and investment relationship, with total trade of £18.6bn in 2019, and two-way investment of £13.4bn in 2019, promoting innovation, jobs and economic development in both nations. But this is not solely due to major corporate agreements. The UK’s SMEs are driving innovation and change, particularly in the area of digital health, as a result of Covid-19. Smaller companies can also thrive here, and the the Department of International Trade (DIT) is a rich source of knowledge to help you navigate your way to success.
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