The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Finland enjoy strong cultural and knowledge-based ties, built on people-to-people connections, the exchange of expertise, and mutual appreciation of each country’s culture and traditions. These ties also encompass partnerships in education, diplomacy, peacebuilding, and community engagement. The UAE Embassy in Helsinki plays an active role by organizing events and initiatives that introduce Finnish society to the UAE’s vision, culture, traditions, and diverse, cosmopolitan character, while supporting reciprocal visits between educational institutions and civil society organizations in both countries.
Knowledge exchange and institutional cooperation also extend to diplomacy and peacebuilding. In October 2023, the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy signed a memorandum of understanding with CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation to strengthen cooperation in diplomacy, peacebuilding, and knowledge exchange. In May 2024, the Academy signed a memorandum of understanding with Finn Church Aid to establish a framework for cooperation and the exchange of expertise. Cultural relations reached a significant milestone in 2025 as the UAE and Finland celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations through initiatives and events highlighting the human and cultural connections between their peoples.
In March 2025, a joint Emirati–Finnish concert brought together artists and musicians from both countries, including Emirati opera singer Fatima Al Hashimi, Finnish cellist Jussi Makkonen, and pianist Nazig Azezian, alongside the Lohja City Orchestra and Emirati musicians. The performance demonstrated the role of music in strengthening cultural understanding and connections. That same month, the UAE Embassy in Helsinki launched the “Circle of Friends of the UAE,” bringing together Finnish individuals across generations and sectors who have contributed to developing bilateral relations. The initiative aims to preserve the personal and professional connections that form an important part of the UAE–Finland partnership.
Media and cultural initiatives have also helped introduce Finnish society to Emirati audiences and strengthen people-to-people ties. H.E. Amna Fikri, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Finland, participated in “Duroob,” a program presented by Emirati broadcaster and cultural researcher Ali Al Saloom on Dubai TV. Three episodes explored Finnish culture and traditions through the perspectives of members of the Finnish community.
The 50th anniversary celebrations culminated in December 2025 with the UAE Embassy in Helsinki’s launch of the book “Together, We Shape the Next 50 Years” during its reception marking the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad. The book documents personal stories and experiences reflecting the evolution of relations between the two peoples over the decades. It features accounts from students, academics, artists, businesspeople, athletes, Emirati–Finnish families, and former diplomats, highlighting the human and community dimensions of bilateral relations.
Community and knowledge partnerships have also extended to women’s health. In May 2025, the UAE Embassy supported the launch of the “Women’s Health Hub Finland” in Turku. The hub brings together global pharmaceutical and diagnostics companies, researchers, and public sector institutions to advance innovation in women’s health, reflecting the expanding scope of institutional engagement and knowledge exchange between the two countries.
