New Trade Envoy Appointed to Boost Scotland-UAE Links
Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn makes appointment ahead of UAE visit to strengthen business and cultural ties.
By Eilidh Munro
••2 min read
AI
Silhouette of a handshake between a Scottish trade envoy and a UAE business figure in a modern office.
Scotland has appointed a new trade envoy to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the Economy Secretary embarks on a visit to strengthen economic and cultural ties.
Ronnie Graham, Managing Partner of Winston Taylor's Dubai office and leader of its Middle East practice, has been appointed as the new Trade and Investment Envoy to the UAE. He joins Scotland's network of global trade envoys, who leverage their expertise and connections to facilitate market access for Scottish companies.
The appointment was made by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport Stephen Flynn prior to his two-day visit to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. During his trip, Mr Flynn will meet with government ministers, investors, and business leaders. He is also scheduled to attend Investopia in Abu Dhabi, a key investment forum hosted by the UAE Government, where he will participate in ministerial discussions on economic growth.
The visit will also serve to confirm Scotland Week 2027, which is planned to take place in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in March. This initiative aims to build upon the connections established during the trip through a programme of trade and cultural engagements, showcasing Scottish businesses, innovation, and culture to UAE partners.
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"My engagement with government ministers, investors and business leaders in the UAE will open doors for Scottish businesses in a region with huge potential for growth."
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"I congratulate Ronnie on his appointment as our new Trade and Investment Envoy to the UAE. His experience and standing across the region's business and investment community make him ideally placed to help Scottish companies build the relationships they need to succeed in this market."
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"The successful Investopia Global investment event in Edinburgh last December built momentum for deeper collaboration with UAE partners, and this visit will strengthen those relationships further - helping with access new markets, win contracts and creating Scottish jobs."
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"Our plans for Scotland Week 2027 in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in March will build on this momentum, giving us a platform to deepen ties with the UAE for years to come."
