Sri Lanka and the UAE have a longstanding partnership shaped by trade and community contributions
Sri Lanka-UAE ties deepen
The bi-lateral relationship between Sri Lanka and the UAE has grown significantly in the recent past, entering a new phase of friendship and cooperation.
The UAE is Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, and was Sri Lanka’s 7th largest export destination with exports valued at US$ 335 million in 2024. The UAE is Sri Lanka’s third largest import origin, with imports valued at US$ 1.3 billion also in 2024.
The UAE is the sixth largest investor in Sri Lanka, having invested in the areas of construction, hospitality, and energy.
On the diplomatic front, the past year alone has seen a number of high-level visits, including those at the Presidential and Prime Ministerial levels.
The Investment Promotion and Protection Act between Sri Lanka and the UAE was signed during the visit of the President of Sri Lanka, H.E Anura Kumara Dissanayake to the UAE last year. The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka and the Federation of the UAE Chambers of Commerce signed an MoU in April 2025, during the visit of the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the UAE to Sri Lanka, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Last year, the Sri Lankan diplomatic office also held the second round of the Joint Commission Meetings, and the UAE Minister of State, H.E. Saeed Al Hajeri visited Sri Lanka to sign the agreed minutes of the second session.
The Ambassador Says
H. E. Prof. Dr. Arusha Cooray
Ambassador, Embassy of Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi
The relationship between Sri Lanka and the UAE is built on mutual respect, shared aspirations, and decades of cooperation across trade, investment, employment, and cultural exchange. Today, our bilateral ties continue to expand, driven by new opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, tourism, logistics, technology, and food security.
The contributions of the Sri Lankan community living and working in this dynamic nation are deeply valued. There are about 350,000 Sri Lankans living and working in the UAE. They have made a meaningful and long-lasting contribution to both Sri Lanka by sending back remittances and the UAE, by supporting key sectors such as hospitality, aviation, healthcare, construction, and domestic services. Many Sri Lankans also run successful businesses, and work in professional fields that strengthen the country’s economy. Through cultural events, festivals, and community service, they enrich the UAE’s multicultural identity.
Key Figures & Highlights
- 350,000 Sri Lankans in the UAE
- UAE: SL’s largest Middle East trading partner
- Exports to UAE (2024): US$ 335 million
- Imports from UAE (2024): US$ 1.3 billion
- UAE: 6th largest investor in Sri Lanka
- Key sectors: Construction, hospitality, energy
Living Heritage Tapestry
Sri Lanka’s food, arts, culture, and heritage form a vibrant tapestry shaped by centuries of history and diverse influences. The island’s cuisine, famous for its fragrant spices, coconut-rich curries, and regional specialties such as hoppers and kottu, reflects both ancient traditions and multicultural exchanges.
Its artistic heritage is equally rich, ranging from intricate temple murals to wood carvings, and handcrafted textiles that showcase exceptional craftsmanship.
Cultural life is deeply rooted in Buddhist values, yet enriched by Hindu, Muslim, and Christian traditions, creating a blend of rituals, festivals, and community practices.
Historic sites such as Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa stand as enduring symbols of the island’s architectural brilliance and spiritual depth, not to mention the wildlife, tea plantations, and beautiful beaches. To the North, the Jaffna Peninsula adds its own distinct character exhibiting ornate Hindu temples, while the East coast introduces yet another dimension: golden beaches stretching from Trincomalee to Arugam Bay. Together, these elements highlight a living heritage that continues to evolve while preserving the timeless identity of Sri Lanka.
