A new Scottish energy transition hub is set to be launched in Abu Dhabi to support Scottish companies working in the clean energy sector and provide them with direct access to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) energy market.

Announced by Scottish Enterprise, the hub is the second phase of a dedicated programme that aims to generate additional international export sales and in its first year, will be home for up to ten Scottish companies entering the UAE market for the first time with products and services that support global energy transition.

These businesses will be able to use the hub as their UAE base for up to eighteen months, with access to advice and support on setting up in the local business environment, as well as mentoring, coaching, and advice on funding sources. 

The scheme will offer practical advice for Scottish firms on doing business in the UAE, supported by Scottish Enterprise’s international team, and allow companies’ direct engagement with key UAE organisations at the forefront of the energy transition, as well as local stakeholders, supply chain partners and potential investors.

“This innovative approach will help ambitious Scottish companies take their first steps in the UAE,” said Scottish Enterprise chief executive, Adrian Gillespie.

“Helping Scottish companies identify new opportunities and partnerships outside of Scotland is vital to our future economic success. 

“It’s been a productive visit so far with our companies making incredibly useful connections that will help them further develop a strong presence in UAE when the Scottish energy transition hub opens.”

The first phase of the Scottish Enterprise programme took place in Scotland, where twelve firms worked with UAE and Scottish business experts to explore regulatory requirements and business culture, plus the development of a market strategy and trial pitching sessions.

Seven of these companies have now formed the trade delegation that is currently accompanying the Deputy first minister, Kate Forbes, and Gillespie to the UAE as part of the inaugural UAE Scotland Week taking place from 14 to 17 April.

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“From offshore wind to hydrogen to energy storage, Scottish businesses are at the vanguard of many of the technologies that will support the global energy transition and our future energy security for decades to come,” said Forbes.

“The UAE Energy Hub presents Scottish businesses with an excellent opportunity to capitalise on this position and develop the partnerships, the collaborations and the investment opportunities that are ready to be unlocked.”

The new hub is the latest partnership between the two countries, following the launch of the first Robotarium in the Middle East back in February. 

The new UAE Robotarium is being created through a strategic partnership between Heriot-Watt University Dubai and Expo City Dubai, inspired by the model of Scotland’s own National Robotarium.

In 2023, the UAE Government and Scottish Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing non-oil bilateral trade and promoting collaboration in advanced technology, innovation, education and research.