Dear Swiss Citizens in the United Arab Emirates and in the Kingdom of Bahrain,
Dear visitors,
السلام عليكم
The year 2023 marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain. On 12th September 1973, the Swiss Federal Council decided to engage in diplomatic relations with both countries. Over the past half-century, the bilateral relations of Switzerland with both partner countries have grown in strength, which is reflected in the increase of the trade balance and intensity of bilateral contacts in a variety of topics of common interest, such as investment, technology, science, education and tourism. I firmly believe that by fostering dialogue, understanding and cooperation, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain will continue to shape shared visions, for instance at the upcoming COP28 in Dubai and mutually benefit from the sustainable development of our respective countries.
As Switzerland is participating in the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the Embassy in Abu Dhabi is also very active in the context of its mandate to represent Switzerland at IRENA.
The Swiss Embassy team will continue to provide throughout the year efficient consular services to all Swiss citizens residing in or visiting the United Arab Emirates and provide visa for visitors to Switzerland. The Embassy team in Abu Dhabi, jointly with the team at the Swiss General Consulate in Dubai, is looking forward to supporting business and diplomatic visitors, to interact with the Swiss business community in the UAE, to contribute to cultural exchanges and to promote Switzerland as a destination.
Arthur Mattli
Ambassador of Switzerland to the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain
