SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)

Russia-UAE relations are witnessing continuous development, and the overall trajectory remains positive as both countries expand their cooperation, said  Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation Maksim Reshetnikov.

In remarks to the press during the AIM Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi, Reshetnikov noted that the UAE is Russia's "important partner" and Moscow's trade turnover with the UAE in goods stands at almost $10 billion.

"We understand that the range of supplies is growing, the channels of interaction are expanding," he said.

Beyond trade, services now make up a major part of bilateral engagement.

"Our turnover in the services sector exceeds even the turnover of goods. These are, of course, services and tourism, first and foremost, as well as financial and transport services," he said.

The minister also highlighted new areas of cooperation, particularly in industrial development and special economic zones.

The UAE's special economic zones are witnessing rapid development and at the regional level, there is intensive interaction between economic zones, he added.

Technology is another key focus for future cooperation, and prospects are bright for collaboration in the IT sector, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and platform promotion, Reshetnikov said.

In this context, he highlighted the Russian technology company Yandex's active presence in the UAE. 

Elaborating further on ties, Reshetnikov said that tourism remains a vital link between the two nations.

"Almost two million Russian tourists come here every year. The UAE does not even need advertising in Russia anymore - it is already a top destination. Similarly, growing number of UAE citizens are travelling to Russia," he said.