SBC | Spain and the UAE celebrate friendship and partnership on Spain’s National Day 2026

Abu Dhabi, 12 October 2026 – United Arab Emirates

The Spanish Business Council (SBC) and the Embassy of Spain in the United Arab Emirates brought the Spanish and Emirati communities together for a memorable celebration of the National Day of Spain 2026, honoring Spain’s rich heritage and the enduring friendship between both nations.

Oganized by Spanish Business Council (SBC) in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain in the UAE, the official reception took place on Monday, 12 October, at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi, gathering more than 2,000 guests from the diplomatic, institutional, and business communities, alongside members of the Spanish and Emirati communities.

The ceremony on the 12th October in Abu Dhabi was graced by the Guest of Honor, H.E. Hind Al Shraim, Director of European Affairs Department, whose presence underscored the strength of the bilateral relations between Spain and the United Arab Emirates.

Recognizing the people and institutions that bring countries closer

At the heart of the evening was the “Friends of Spain” awards ceremony, an acknowledgment of the Emirati institutions helping to build bridges between both countries. This year’s awards recognized:

• Emirates Airlines & Group, represented by Saeed Khalifa Bin Sulaiman, Senior Manager Abu Dhabi & Al Ain.
• Alserkal Avenue, represented by Basmah ElBittar, Director of Alserkal Avenue.
• RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, represented by E. Professor Ismail Ibrahim Matalka, President.

These recognitions reflect the many ways in which cooperation takes shape, from economic development and international connectivity to cultural exchange. Together, they highlight the importance of institutions that turn bilateral relations into meaningful connections between people, businesses, and communities.

A celebration made possible by the Spanish business community

Spanish gastronomy and music added a distinctive cultural dimension to the evening, bringing guests together in a celebration of Marca España and its enduring connection with the UAE.

The reception was made possible thanks to the support of 60 sponsoring companies, whose involvement demonstrates the commitment of the Spanish business community to strengthening the country’s presence in the Emirates.

As Spain and the UAE continue to develop their relationship, the National Day celebration serves as a reminder that lasting partnerships are built not only through official agreements, but also through the people, institutions, and businesses working together to shape a shared future.