DUBAI, Feb 3: The Kuwaiti-Emirati Week officially kicked off today, Monday, marking an important event aimed at fostering stronger cooperation between the State of Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The event serves as a platform to enhance economic and cultural ties between the two countries while showcasing the deep historical relations that bind them.

Under the patronage of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Kuwaiti-Emirati Week in Dubai will provide an opportunity to explore new opportunities, exchange ideas, and develop bilateral cooperation within the framework of the strong ties between the two nations.

Kuwait and the UAE have maintained robust economic relations for decades, covering various fields such as trade, investment, and energy. In 2023, the volume of non-oil trade exchange between the two countries reached over $12.4 billion, marking a 4 percent growth compared to 2022. The UAE holds the position as the largest recipient of Kuwait's non-oil exports, accounting for 22 percent of the country's total exports. Additionally, the UAE ranks third globally in the most significant markets for Kuwaiti imports, following China and the United States.

Regarding tourism, the number of Kuwaiti tourists staying in UAE hotels exceeded 381,000 in 2023, compared to 250,000 in 2022. In contrast, the number of Emirati tourists visiting Kuwait reached 42,000 during the same period. The total number of flights between the two countries also shows strong connectivity, with Kuwaiti carriers flying 53 flights per week to the UAE and UAE carriers operating 122 flights to Kuwait.

Beyond economic cooperation, the Kuwaiti-Emirati Week aims to enhance cultural exchange through artistic events, performances, and workshops that highlight the shared heritage and history of both nations.

In an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Khaled Al-Zaabi, the Consul General of Kuwait in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, emphasized that the event symbolizes the strong fraternal relations between Kuwait and the UAE. Al-Zaabi highlighted that the week reflects the shared history and culture of both countries and aims to promote cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and culture.

Al-Zaabi also noted that the event would bring together key officials from both the public and private sectors, fostering partnerships and the exchange of ideas and opportunities for a promising future. He expressed gratitude to all those involved in organizing the event, which will provide a platform for Kuwaiti and Emirati companies to collaborate and build lasting relationships.

Firas Al-Salem, Chairman of the Kuwaiti Business Council in Dubai, also spoke to KUNA about the significance of the Kuwaiti-Emirati Week, describing it as a vital economic and cultural platform to showcase the close ties between the two nations. Al-Salem emphasized the positive impact of recent regulatory changes in both countries, which have facilitated capital transfers and boosted trade and investment relations. He added that the conference accompanying the event will attract 300 government officials, businessmen, and representatives from leading companies, marking it as the largest Kuwaiti economic delegation to visit the UAE.

Emirati media figure Mohammed Al-Raisi remarked that the Kuwaiti-Emirati Week exemplifies the depth of the historical fraternal relations between the two countries. He highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in strengthening bilateral trade relations and enhancing cooperation between businesses and institutions from both countries.

Al-Raisi also emphasized the need for continuous efforts from organizers to provide opportunities, support the event's visibility, and encourage businessmen from both nations to explore new trade opportunities. He underscored that the strong and advanced trade relations between Kuwait and the UAE reflect their shared commitment to economic cooperation.

The two-day Kuwaiti-Emirati Week is designed to further solidify the strategic relations between Kuwait and the UAE, focusing on comprehensive development and mutual interests across various sectors. Organized by the UAE Ministry of Economy in partnership with Dubai Chambers, and in collaboration with the Consulate General of Kuwait and Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, the event will open new horizons for investment, explore trade opportunities, and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise.

Scheduled activities include bilateral meetings between government and private sector representatives, which will foster partnerships, lead to the signing of agreements and memorandums of understanding, and contribute to exploring new investment opportunities. The event is a vital step in strengthening cooperation between the two countries across all levels.