The Gulf business delegation expression of interest

The City of London Corporation, in partnership with the British Embassies in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, invites expressions of interest from businesses looking to join the Lord Mayor of London’s, Alderman Alastair King, business delegation to the Gulf and participate in an exclusive in-market programme from 24 - 30 May 2025.

The programme will include: 

• Engagements with key in-market stakeholders across government, regulator, institutional investor, and financial and professional services sectors.
• Visit to key industry hubs in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar.  
• Networking sessions with in-market and international financial and professional services firms in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar. 

A pre-visit programme (virtual) with take place during April and May to prepare participants for their visit. This includes market briefings and a review of priorities to support pitch strategies. 

Register your Expression of Interest by 0900 on 28 March 2025.

Why you should participate

• The Gulf region presents significant opportunities for your firm and that your firm can assist with the fulfilment of the economic diversification strategies, otherwise known as ‘Vision’ plans. (See Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar). 
• Access to key decision-makers, investors, and potential business partners. 
• Opportunity to promote products and services to a targeted audience. 
• Exposure to some of the world’s fastest-growing markets with strong demand for international expertise. 

Who should participate 

Expressions of Interest are sought from companies that align with the trip objectives: 

• Are a financial and professional services firm in the following sectors: infrastructure, asset management, and sustainability.  

Or 

• A high-growth UK-based firm that has identified the Gulf region as a priority for expansion in 2025-2026. 
• Have a senior (preferably UK based) representative, who is able to travel to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar.  
• Will commit to working with the City of London Corporation and participating in all agreed aspects of the programme. 
• Are market-ready and have a clear go-to-market strategy. 
• Can dedicate sufficient resources to market entry and business development.  

Space is strictly limited to 4 companies. Applicants will be selected based on their market readiness and alignment with the programme objectives.

Cost

Participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and incidental costs. 

Timelines for selection

• Expression of interest registration closes Friday, 28 March 2025.  
• Shortlisting will take place w/c 31 March 2025. 
• Interview and delegation selection w/c 7 April 2025. (6 week lead time to visit start).

Expression of interest

Please register interest for this delegation by completing an online registration form.

Important information

City of London Corporation works only with companies that maintain appropriate business ethics and comply with all relevant legal obligations, including anti-bribery laws. 

The City of London Corporation adheres to travel guidance issued by the UK Government and its diplomats. Changes or cancellations to the scheduled markets may occur at short notice based on official advice. We strongly recommend making refundable bookings to accommodate any adjustments. 

Please contact Reece Patrick Roberts if you have any questions on tradeandinvestment@cityoflondon.gov.uk.