Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has embarked on a diplomatic mission to Dubai, aiming to bolster relations with ministers from the United Arab Emirates and attract financial backing from expatriates. This trip, which marks his second visit to the Gulf nation within a two-month span, follows an earlier high-profile engagement at the Formula One Grand Prix, funded by Abu Dhabi.
Diplomatic Engagements in the Gulf
During his two-night stay, Farage held discussions with UAE officials, including Sultan Al Jaber, the UAE’s industry minister and CEO of the state oil company ADNOC. Addressing attendees at a GB News event, he described his meeting with an unidentified UAE minister as “very good,” highlighting the shift in his diplomatic focus from previous ties with the Trump administration to building connections in the Middle East.
At the event, which celebrated GB News’ fifth anniversary and took place at the Aura Skypool, renowned for its spectacular views, Farage engaged with numerous British expatriates. He expressed concerns regarding the factors driving Britons to reside abroad, such as rising taxation and crime rates, while seeking potential support for his party.
Networking with Key Figures
The event attracted a variety of notable attendees, including former Conservative chancellor Nadhim Zahawi, who recently joined Reform UK, as well as influential figures from the business and media sectors. Farage, who described himself as visiting primarily for “sunshine,” nonetheless focused on garnering support for his party’s agenda.
In addition to public engagements, Farage hosted private meetings, including a lunch with prominent Dubai resident and billionaire Sunny Varkey, founder of the GEMS Education group. While Farage acknowledged Varkey as a “nice chap,” he refrained from discussing any potential donations, maintaining a level of discretion regarding financial contributions.
Aiming for Change in the UK
Farage’s visit comes on the heels of a substantial £9 million donation received by Reform UK from expatriate investor Christopher Harborne, marking the largest individual donation to a UK political party. He noted that the UAE offers valuable lessons for the UK, particularly in areas such as crime reduction, business innovation, and tax policy.
“The UK has a lot to learn from the UAE,” he asserted, expressing confidence in Reform UK’s future, stating, “We’re going to win the next election. And many of you who have come to Dubai will suddenly find London a more attractive place to be.”
Why it Matters
Farage’s recent diplomatic efforts underscore a strategic pivot as he seeks to expand Reform UK’s influence within the UK political landscape. By tapping into the wealth and connections of expatriates in Dubai, Farage aims to secure crucial funding while advocating for policies inspired by UAE governance. His actions not only reflect an evolving political strategy but also highlight the growing importance of international relations in domestic politics, as parties increasingly seek to engage with global networks for support and resources.
