The governments of Japan and the United Arab Emirates formally launched negotiations for a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) on September 18, 2024, according to a statement released by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The move comes as both nations seek to strengthen economic ties and collaborate on emerging technologies, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence.
The initiation of talks follows a period of increasing engagement between Tokyo and Abu Dhabi. Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, recently concluded visits to both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, signaling a broader Japanese effort to deepen relationships with Gulf states. This push for closer collaboration is occurring as the UAE rapidly develops its technological infrastructure and aims to become a regional hub for AI and advanced technologies.
Amane Kobayashi, a senior researcher at the Institute of Energy Economics in Japan, highlighted the potential benefits of this strategic partnership during a recent conference hosted by the Middle East Institute in Washington. Kobayashi suggested that Japan could play a key role in establishing a more resilient global AI supply chain, leveraging its technological expertise and experience. He also emphasized Japan’s capacity to share its knowledge in energy sustainability and decarbonization technologies with Gulf nations.
The forthcoming visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed to Japan, anticipated by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is expected to further solidify this burgeoning relationship. The visit echoes the strong foundations laid by the first visit of a UAE President, Sheikh Zayed, to Japan in 1990. Both countries are also members of the Pax Silica alliance, a US-led initiative focused on bolstering supply chains critical to AI and broader technological development.
While Japan may not be considered a frontrunner in the global AI race, recent analyses indicate its continued strength in the technology sector. Stanford University’s 2025 Global Vibrancy Tool ranked Japan ninth globally in AI vibrancy, positioning it ahead of Singapore and just behind Germany. Stanford’s research places Japan second worldwide in robotics, surpassing the United States and trailing only China, and ninth globally in newly funded AI companies.
The Consulate-General of Japan in Dubai and Northern Emirates is actively working to support Japanese businesses operating in the UAE, providing assistance to ensure smooth operations and addressing challenges as they arise. Jun Imanishi, Consul-General of Japan in Dubai, noted Dubai’s significance as a regional hub for trade, investment, and logistics, and the increasing interest from Japanese companies looking to enter the UAE market. The Consulate-General also focuses on attracting foreign direct investment into Japan to stimulate economic growth.
The UAE has demonstrated a strong commitment to becoming a leader in AI adoption, recently ranking first in a Microsoft report on AI implementation. This ambition aligns with Japan’s desire to foster strategic partnerships in the Gulf region and collaborate on cutting-edge technologies. Negotiations between Japan and the UAE are ongoing, with no confirmed timeline for completion.
