UAE and Netherlands deepen ties on water, energy, and climate ahead of 2026 UN conference
A two-day official visit to the Netherlands by Abdulla Balalaa, the UAE’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, has strengthened ties between the two nations. Held on 7–8 May, the trip focused on energy cooperation, water security, and preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal. During the visit, Balalaa held meetings with senior Dutch ministers, government officials, and researchers. Topics included water management, climate adaptation, and the transition to cleaner energy. A key moment was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and IHE Delft Institute for Water Education. This agreement aims to boost education, training, and research in water diplomacy ahead of the 2026 conference.
The UAE and the Netherlands also reaffirmed their commitment to turning global water pledges into concrete action. Both countries pledged to focus on measurable outcomes in water security and sustainability. Meanwhile, trade between the two nations grew by 6.82% in 2025, excluding oil, highlighting their expanding economic relationship. A high-level UAE-Netherlands Energy Dialogue took place in Rotterdam as part of the visit. Discussions covered energy transition, food security, and the sustainable use of resources.
The visit concluded with agreements to deepen collaboration in water, energy, and climate resilience. The signed MOU and joint commitments set the stage for further cooperation before the 2026 UN Water Conference. Both nations also noted the steady growth in non-oil trade as a sign of their strengthening partnership.
