The UAE has established itself as a bold, ambitious leader in the adoption of AI, digital infrastructure, and smart technologies. From national AI strategies to digital government, the country is not just keeping pace — it’s setting the tone. And with that progress comes a growing interest in collaboration: not simply buying in foreign expertise, but forming partnerships that transfer knowledge, build capacity, and generate long-term value.
Having worked closely with UK-based companies and now living in Abu Dhabi, I’ve seen both sides of the equation. The UK offers strength in research, regulation, fintech innovation, and data ethics. The UAE, meanwhile, brings unmatched pace, ambition, and alignment between public and private sectors. But bridging these strengths takes more than intention — it takes presence, adaptability, and mutual understanding.
Too often, UK and international firms approach the UAE as a sales opportunity rather than a strategic partnership. Credentials and case studies may impress, but what matters here is relevance — to the local context, to national priorities, and to the people who will be responsible for delivery. Firms don’t always need to establish a full on-the-ground presence immediately — but working with trusted partners who are already embedded in the region can offer a far more effective and informed path to market.
In the field of AI and digital transformation, this matters even more. Technology must be aligned with regulation, sensitive to localisation, and designed to empower teams here — not simply transfer solutions from abroad. When done well, collaboration can unlock real innovation across sectors like fintech, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainability. But it only works when trust, consistency, and shared value are part of the approach.
The British Chamber of Commerce Abu Dhabi and other platforms are playing a vital role in shaping a more connected, collaborative business environment. For international firms and UK partners in particular, the next step isn’t simply entering the market — it’s engaging meaningfully with it.
That has been my approach with Argella. Founded in London and now operating from the UAE, we work with clients on both sides of the Gulf to help turn ambition into action — whether through AI adoption, data strategy, fintech transformation, or building the kind of cross-border partnerships that deliver lasting value. There is real appetite in this region for practical, thoughtful expertise — and the window of opportunity for those ready to engage is wide open.
About the Author
Amar Rajani is the founder of Argella, a technology and strategic advisory firm helping organisations navigate growth, transformation, and change. Established in 2017 and now based in the UAE, Argella supports clients across the UK, Gulf, and beyond through data-led insight, market expertise, and practical delivery.
For more information please visit argella.com
