A delegation of civic, business and higher education leaders from Manchester arrive in Abu Dhabi today to take part in a series of high level meetings to explore opportunities for collaboration with their Abu Dhabi counterparts.
The four-day visit is aimed at building upon the existing ties between the two cities – with particular focus on the sport, cultural, aviation, and academic sectors.
The delegation consists of members from a number of bodies including: Manchester City Council, Marketing Manchester, Manchester Investment and Development Agency Service (MIDAS), the University of Manchester, Manchester Airport, Manchester International Festival and a range of private sector representatives.
The visit will coincide with Manchester City FC’s visit to Abu Dhabi for a friendly match with the UAE national team on Thursday 12 November.
Sir Richard Leese, the Leader of the Manchester City Council, said, “The links between our two great cities have never been closer.
"It is clear that this has come about because of the commitment that Manchester City’s new owners have shown towards not just the club but also the city. And with direct flights every day between Manchester and Abu Dhabi, there’s never been a better time for businesses in both cities to work together.
"I am pleased that we will be in Abu Dhabi at the same time as Manchester City as it gives us the chance to cement our partnership and look at how we can help each other in our aims to continue to build both a world-class club and a world-class city.
"This trip will also demonstrate to others seeking to invest in the UK why Manchester is the ideal choice."
The delegates will be hosted by the British Embassy for a reception Tuesday with representatives of the Manchester City FC. In addition, around 80 senior guests from Manchester and Abu Dhabi’s business communities will be at a Manchester Business Reception, designed to raise awareness of the developing relationship between Manchester and Abu Dhabi, on Wednesday 11 November. Companies which already have a presence in both Manchester and Abu Dhabi include Arup, Building Design Partnership, AEDAS Architects, Royal and Sun Alliance and Royal Bank of Scotland.
