The British Embassy in the UAE has announced a call for bids for the Gulf Strategy Fund, inviting not-for-profit organizations to propose projects that enhance UK-UAE relations in areas like clean energy and AI.
This initiative aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote sustainable development by March 2026.
Strengthening UK-UAE Relations Through Innovation
The Gulf Strategy Fund represents a significant opportunity for UK-based organizations to collaborate with the UAE on projects that address pressing global challenges.
By focusing on areas such as nature and biodiversity, clean water, clean hydrogen, carbon capture, and artificial intelligence, this initiative aligns with both countries’ strategic goals of environmental sustainability and technological advancement.
UAE Not-for-profit Funding
Eligible organizations must be not-for-profit entities with strong existing links to the UAE. They are required to demonstrate how their proposed projects will benefit the UK or strengthen bilateral ties.
This focus on collaboration underscores the importance of international partnerships in tackling climate change and promoting economic diversification.
Opportunities for Collaboration
- Projects should range from £80,000 to £150,000
- Completion deadline set for March 2026
- Concept notes due by May 8, 2025
- Full proposals required by May 22, 2025
- Funding decisions communicated by early June 2025
How to apply
We encourage interested organisations to submit an initial concept note, in the format of your choice, to UAE.Programmes@fcdo.gov.uk by 8 May 2025. We will aim to provide feedback within five working days of concept note submission. You will then need to complete the full project proposal form (ODT, 61.1 KB) and Activity Based Budget template (ODS, 9.91 KB) and submit to UAE.Programmes@fcdo.gov.uk by 22 May. We strongly encourage submitting bids as soon as possible to allow time for feedback and guidance.
The Activity Based Budget must clearly indicate the planned expenditure, including itemised delivery, administrative and staffing costs.
How proposals will be assessed
Bids will be assessed and evaluated against the following criteria:
- value for money
- strategic fit
- evidence of local demand or need
- evidence of strong existing links to the UAE
- project viability, including capacity of implementing organisation(s) and feasibility to deliver the proposed outcomes within the project time period
- project design, including clear achievable impact
- risk and stakeholder management
The Broader Context of UK-UAE Cooperation
This initiative builds upon previous collaborations between the UK and UAE under the Gulf Strategy Fund for 2023-2025.
The ongoing efforts aim to address climate change while fostering economic growth through investments in non-oil sectors. Such partnerships are crucial as both nations work towards achieving their Net Zero goals.
Sustainable Development Goals in Focus
The emphasis on clean energy solutions like hydrogen and carbon capture reflects a shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
These projects have the potential to improve environmental conditions in the UAE while also benefiting UK citizens through enhanced international cooperation. The integration of AI into these initiatives could further drive innovation and efficiency.
Additional Reading
Final Thoughts
This call for bids underlines the UK’s dedication to fostering international partnerships that address global challenges like climate change.
By supporting innovative projects in strategic sectors, this initiative not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also promotes sustainable development that benefits both nations economically and environmentally.
Sources: UK Government, British Embassy Abu Dhabi and British Embassy Dubai.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
