Abu Dhabi is set to become home to a pioneering new hub designed to support Scottish clean energy firms entering the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market, marking a significant step in Scotland’s international energy ambitions.
Scottish Enterprise, Scotland’s national economic development agency, has announced the second phase of its internationalisation programme with the creation of a Scottish Energy Transition Hub in the UAE capital. The initiative aims to accelerate export growth and forge new commercial ties between Scotland and the Gulf region.
The hub, which is anticipated to open in the upcoming months, will provide five to ten Scottish companies with a base of operations in Abu Dhabi for a maximum of 18 months during its first year of operation. Customized assistance will be provided to participating businesses, including advise on funding and regulatory frameworks, market insights, mentorship, and business setup aid.
Crucially, the hub will enable Scottish firms to directly engage with UAE-based stakeholders such as government agencies, investors, and major players in the energy sector, including industry leaders like Masdar, ADNOC, and TAQA.
“This innovative approach will help ambitious Scottish companies take their first steps in the UAE,” said Adrian Gillespie, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise. “We’re intentionally locating the hub in Abu Dhabi to be close to businesses driving the UAE’s energy transition. Building international partnerships like these is vital to Scotland’s economic future.”
The announcement coincides with a visit to the UAE by Scotland’s Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and Gillespie, as part of a broader effort to deepen economic ties between the two nations. The visit includes a series of engagements with Emirati counterparts to explore new trade and investment opportunities.
“For Scottish businesses, the UAE Energy Hub presents a prime opportunity to tap into one of the world’s leading energy markets,” said Forbes. “It opens the door to strategic partnerships and investment avenues that are ripe for exploration.”
The UAE is already a key export destination for Scotland, with goods worth £548 million shipped in 2023 alone. The new hub builds on a successful first phase of the programme, held in Scotland, where 12 companies received expert guidance on market entry strategies and UAE business practices.
Further details on the hub’s location, local partners, and opening timeline are expected to be announced soon.
