Alberta’s government is committed to strengthening international ties and diversifying trade relationships. During this mission, Minister Sigurdson will enhance existing partnerships and pursue new trade and investment opportunities for Alberta in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This will open additional overseas markets for Alberta’s agriculture and food products, directly benefiting the province’s producers and processors.

“This mission is a valuable opportunity to connect with partners from across the Middle East and Asia to showcase Alberta as a reliable, high-quality agri-food trading partner. By attending Gulfood and meeting directly with global buyers and investors, we are opening doors to new markets that support food security abroad and create real opportunities for Alberta producers and processors.”

RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

The UAE has expressed interest in working with Alberta to address food security needs. Building on this relationship aligns with Alberta’s strategic plan to establish the province as an attractive market for investors across the globe.

During his visit, Minister Sigurdson will attend Gulfood, the world’s largest show for food and hospitality businesses, to pursue trade opportunities. He will meet with key investors, importers, distributors, buyers and industry decision makers from the Middle East to promote Alberta’s agri-food exports.

Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.

The Alberta government is committed to working with its national and international partners to advance shared interests that can lead to new opportunities for people and businesses in Alberta and around the world.

Quick facts

  • The UAE is Alberta’s 13th-largest export market for agricultural products with total exports valued at $133.8 million in 2024.
    • Top Alberta exports to the UAE include beef, canola seed, wheat, lentils, canola/mustard oil and hay.
  • The UAE is the fifth-largest export market for Alberta canola seed with $66.3 million in exports in 2024.
    • The UAE is a hub for transferring Canadian canola seed from one mode of transport to another during export. The UAE is a key regional hub for companies operating across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.
  • Population growth and urbanization in the Middle East are driving a significant increase in demand for food products.
  • On Nov. 20, 2025, Canada and the UAE signed a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, which provides protections for investors from both countries.
    • The two countries also agreed to begin negotiations toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement that would reduce tariffs, remove trade barriers and expand market access for Canadian exporters.

Itinerary for Minister Sigurdson*

Jan. 23 – 25
  • Travel to Dubai, UAE.

Jan. 25
  • Rest day.

Jan. 26
  • Meet with Consul General of Canada.
  • Gulfood World Economy Summit panel on food security.
  • Meetings with key importers and distributors.

Jan. 27
  • Canadian networking event.
  • Meetings with Alberta companies exhibiting at Gulfood.
  • Meetings with importers and processors.
  • Meet with Canada beef representatives.
  • Meet with key beef importers and distributors.
  • Canada Beef networking with buyers, importers, distributors and chefs from the Middle East.

Jan. 28
  • Meet with leading business entrepreneurs.
  • Meeting and site visit with major investment company.

Jan. 29
  • Meeting and site visit to beef importer and processor.
  • Meetings with distributors.
  • Meeting with industry stakeholders.

Jan. 30
  • Travel back to Alberta.

*Subject to change.