Knowledge Center

The State of Victoria, a powerhouse of innovation, diversity, and ideas in Australia, has long enjoyed a flourishing partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With shared values of progress, ambition, and opportunity, this collaboration has paved the way for dynamic trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. As we enter 2025, we look ahead with optimism, ready to deepen our ties and embrace new partnerships together.

Victoria: The Gateway to Australian Excellence

Victoria is a leading contributor to Australia’s economic success. It is the fastest-growing state in terms of population, job creation, and economic expansion. Home to Melbourne, our state capital and a global city, Victoria is renowned for its world-class education system, enviable lifestyle, leading sports ecosystem, and vibrant cultural and dining scene.

Our economy is built on diversity, with strengths in industries such as agriculture, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, health and life sciences, and sport.

One of Victoria’s greatest assets is its extensive international presence. With 23 trade and investment offices strategically located across the globe, Victoria has the largest international network of any Australian state or territory. These offices play a vital role in connecting Victorian businesses with global partners, fostering collaboration, and driving economic growth.

The UAE holds a special place in Victoria’s international partnerships. As the first Australian state to establish a trade and investment office in Dubai in 1997, Victoria has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the region. This relationship has enabled Victorian businesses to explore new markets, share expertise, and achieve success across industries.

Longstanding Partnership with the UAE

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), announced in September 2024 between Australia and the UAE, marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The UAE is already one of Australia’s largest trade partners in the Middle East, and the agreement is set to further strengthen economic ties and create new opportunities for trade and investment.

A testament to this growing relationship is the investment by Lulu Group in Melbourne, highlighting strong confidence in Victoria’s economy and the potential for deeper collaboration.

These economic links are further strengthened by the vibrant UAE-born community in Victoria, fostering valuable people-to-people connections.

Education: A Pillar of Collaboration

Victoria is Australia’s leader in transnational education, supported by the largest offshore education network of any state. It is home to 18 major medical research institutes, 10 universities, and 12 TAFEs, contributing to a highly skilled workforce.

Each year, more than 12,000 students from the broader META region choose to study in Victoria, attracted by globally ranked universities and strong vocational training programs. Beyond the classroom, Victoria collaborates with Middle Eastern institutions to develop education programs, share research, and foster innovation.

Victoria’s commitment to lifelong learning aligns closely with the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to education and workforce development.

Sport: A Bridge Between Cultures

Sport is a universal language that connects people, and Victoria is widely recognized as Australia’s sporting capital. Melbourne hosts world-class events and offers premier infrastructure and innovation networks.

As the only city in the world to host both a Tennis Grand Slam (Australian Open) and a Formula 1 Grand Prix, Melbourne plays a key role in global sports engagement. The upcoming SportNXT conference further strengthens its position as a leader in sports business.

Victoria actively uses sport to foster international relationships. Recent trade delegations to the Gulf region have brought together leading Victorian companies with expertise across multiple sports sectors.

Victoria’s leadership extends beyond events into sports technology, infrastructure, governance, and community participation.

Future Perspectives: Opportunities Abound

Victoria’s strong ties with the UAE are reflected in the success of Victorian companies operating in the region. Ego Pharmaceuticals has expanded its presence in the UAE, offering high-quality products tailored to the local market and building strong brand recognition.

Similarly, PMY Group, a global technology consultancy, has contributed to major projects in the UAE, showcasing innovation and expertise.

These companies highlight the strength, adaptability, and global capability of Victorian businesses.

Looking Ahead

Upcoming events such as the World Chambers Congress (WCC) in Melbourne in September 2025 will provide a platform to strengthen global connections and showcase shared opportunities.

The 14th WCC, to be held from 2 to 4 September 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, will bring together global business leaders, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Victoria is also supporting multiple trade delegations to the UAE, ensuring strong participation in key sector events such as Gulfood.

Let’s Chat

In an evolving global landscape, collaboration and innovation are essential. Victoria and the UAE can continue to work together to drive meaningful solutions and shared growth.

We extend our gratitude to our UAE partners and look forward to strengthening this relationship in 2025 and beyond.

For those interested in exploring opportunities with Victoria, we invite you to connect with our team and continue the conversation.