Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is undertaking official visits to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with the trip expected to strengthen diplomatic engagement and deepen cooperation in energy security, economic resilience and regional affairs.

The visit to Qatar is scheduled for October 18–20, followed by engagements in the UAE from October 20–22. These are Wong’s first visits to the Middle East since becoming prime minister, reflecting Singapore’s efforts to maintain strong relationships with key partners in the Gulf region.

Qatar Talks to Focus on Bilateral Partnership

During his stay in Qatar, Wong is scheduled to meet Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.

Wong and the Qatari emir are also expected to co-chair the ninth Qatar–Singapore High-Level Joint Committee. The platform supports cooperation between the two countries and provides an opportunity to discuss shared priorities and future initiatives.

Energy security is expected to be an important subject during the discussions. Qatar is a significant supplier of liquefied natural gas to international markets, making its energy relationship with Singapore strategically important.

UAE Meetings to Explore Shared Priorities

In the United Arab Emirates, Wong is scheduled to meet President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi and hold further discussions with senior UAE leaders. His programme also includes engagements in Dubai.

Singapore and the UAE have developed extensive economic links covering trade, investment, defence, energy and water sustainability. The upcoming meetings provide an opportunity to review existing cooperation and identify additional areas for collaboration.

Energy Security and Economic Resilience in Focus

The trip comes as countries continue to assess the effects of regional instability on energy supplies, international trade and economic confidence. For Singapore, a major trading economy that relies heavily on imported energy, maintaining reliable partnerships with Gulf countries is an important part of its broader economic strategy.

Beyond commercial relations, the discussions are expected to provide an opportunity for the leaders to exchange views on developments in the Middle East and emphasise the importance of dialogue and diplomacy.

Wong will be accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Energy and Trade Minister Tan See Leng, other officials and his wife. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong will serve as acting prime minister.

The outcome of the meetings could help shape future cooperation between Singapore and its Gulf partners, particularly in areas connected to energy reliability, investment and long-term economic stability.