UAE and Mexico Celebrate National Day and 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
Abu Dhabi, 15 September 2025 – A vibrant celebration unfolded at the iconic Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Mexico commemorated two significant milestones: Mexico’s National Day and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The event was hosted by Luis Alfonso de Alba Góngora, the Ambassador of the United Mexican States to the UAE, and was attended by Sheikha Hessa bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Deputy Director of the American Affairs Department at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with senior officials, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the Mexican community in the UAE.
This symbolic gathering underscored the enduring ties and growing partnership between the two countries, which have evolved significantly since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
In his keynote address, Ambassador de Alba highlighted that the UAE has become Mexico’s largest trading partner in the Arab world, reflecting the depth and diversification of the two nations’ engagement. Over the past five decades, bilateral cooperation has flourished across key sectors such as trade, tourism, energy cooperation, and cultural exchange.
In his remarks, Ambassador de Alba noted the importance of high-level reciprocal visits, which he said have played a crucial role in expanding cooperation in areas including renewable energy, infrastructure development, food security, and advanced technology. These visits have served as a foundation for launching joint ventures and public-private partnerships that contribute to the growth and diversification of both economies.
Opportunities for Growth
Ambassador de Alba expressed confidence in the potential for deeper commercial engagement, stating there is “enormous untapped potential” within existing and emerging sectors. With Mexico’s growing manufacturing and technology capabilities and the UAE’s position as a global trade and logistics hub, the ambassador underscored that both countries are well-positioned to build new trade corridors, enhance regional supply chains, and promote mutual foreign direct investment (FDI).
Analysts project a steady increase in bilateral trade volumes in the coming years, supported by the UAE’s economic diversification drive and Mexico’s proactive participation in Expo-related legacies and strategic initiatives involving Gulf-region investors.
Cultural Exchange and Community Engagement
The evening’s program also paid tribute to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage, with live folkloric performances that showcased traditional music, dance, and costumes. These cultural expressions offered guests a vivid experience of Mexican tradition and hospitality, enhancing the spirit of warmth and celebration.
Members of the Mexican expatriate community in the UAE expressed pride in their nation’s accomplishments and highlighted the value of ongoing cultural diplomacy. Attendees emphasized that continued engagement through people-to-people connections, bilateral forums, and cultural programs serves to deepen mutual understanding between the two societies.
As the UAE and Mexico look forward to the next fifty years of partnership, both countries remain committed to enhancing their bilateral agenda, advancing shared goals in sustainability, innovation, and cross-cultural cooperation.
— Team V.DIR-EM-UAE