Minister Schow will travel to Abu Dhabi and Dubai from Oct. 26 to Nov. 5 to continue to strengthen relationships with government and industry leaders that enhance economic ties and create new opportunities for Alberta businesses in the energy sector. Minister Schow and a delegation of Alberta companies will be participating in the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) 2026, the world’s largest energy industry event.

Alberta’s presence provides an opportunity to reinforce the province’s role in global energy security and highlight the strength of Alberta’s private-sector partnerships. The mission reflects the province’s ongoing commitment to deepening economic ties in the Middle East and will continue to position Alberta as a leader in energy innovation and expertise.

“Alberta’s government is focused on expanding trade and investment opportunities that support economic growth and job creation at home. The UAE is an important market for Alberta businesses looking to diversify and scale internationally. This mission will help strengthen our economic partnership with the Middle East and open new doors for Alberta companies in a rapidly evolving global economy.”

Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration

For the first time, Alberta-based companies will have an opportunity to fly direct from Calgary to Abu Dhabi as Etihad Airways begins operation in Alberta. Demand for a direct flight between the two cities was established through building strong relationships and economic ties between Alberta and the UAE. 

Alberta’s government works with national and international partners to help Alberta businesses access new markets, attract investment and build resilient global trade relationships. Government-led trade missions play a key role in supporting export diversification and positioning Alberta companies for success on the world stage.

Mission expenses will be posted on the Alberta government’s travel and expense disclosure page.

Itinerary for Minister Schow*

Oct. 25
  • Depart from Calgary on Etihad inaugural direct flight to Abu Dhabi.

Oct. 26
  • Arrive in Abu Dhabi.

Oct. 27
  • Meetings and briefings with government and industry leaders.
  • Travel to Dubai.

Oct. 28
  • Meetings and briefings with government and industry leaders.

Oct. 29
  • Meetings with industry leaders.

Oct. 30
  • Meetings and briefings with government and industry leaders.
  • Travel to Abu Dhabi.

Oct. 31
  • Rest day.

Nov. 1
  • Attend ADIPEC Alberta Welcome Dinner.

Nov. 2
  • Attend ADIPEC.
  • Meetings and briefings with government and industry leaders.
  • Attend Canadian Business Council Networking Reception.

Nov. 3
  • Attend ADIPEC.
  • Meetings and briefings with government and industry leaders.

Nov. 4
  • Attend ADIPEC.
  • Meetings and briefings with government and industry leaders.

Nov. 5
  • Depart Abu Dhabi.
  • Arrive in Alberta.

*Subject to change.

Quick facts

  • Alberta’s government values its long-standing relationship with the UAE, as Alberta’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, with total bilateral trade of $490 million in 2025.
  • The UAE is Alberta’s 11th-largest export destination, with exports exceeding $414 million in 2025.
    • Key exports included canola ($82.0 million), scientific instruments ($65.4 million), temperature-treatment machinery ($48.6 million), metal-treatment machinery ($33.5 million) and wheat ($30.1 million).
  • Alberta imported $75.2 million from the UAE in 2025.
  • Major imports included iron and steel structures ($28.7 million), oil and gas casing/tubing ($12.7 million), precious-metal jewellery ($4.1 million), steel tubes ($2.2 million) and oil and gas pipeline pipe ($2.1 million). These figures do not capture goods entering Alberta through distribution hubs in other provinces. 

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