UK-GCC Free Trade Agreement

The UK has successfully concluded a milestone Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, reflecting a shared commitment to open trade, mutual prosperity, and long-term economic growth.

Commenting on the announcement of a UK trade deal with the GCC, Michael Patchett-Joyce said:

“We welcome the signing of the trade agreement. From our extensive work in dispute resolution across the GCC, we know it to be one of the world’s most dynamic and commercially significant regions.

“This deal represents a substantial opportunity for the UK to deepen trade ties and strengthen economic collaboration with the Gulf states. We look forward to seeing British businesses benefit from increased market access and enhanced opportunities for growth, investment and innovation.”

Mussadak Mirza added:

“The UK-GCC FTA significantly improves market access for UK legal services across the Gulf region. It facilitates greater mobility for legal professionals, introduces frameworks for the recognition of professional qualifications, and streamlines visa processes through simplified digital procedures, enabling UK lawyers to operate more easily within GCC jurisdictions.

“While many international law firms already maintain a presence in the UAE, this agreement has the potential to simplify and expand access to the other five GCC markets, creating further opportunities for cross-border legal and commercial work.”