UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan dispatched a cable to President Bernardo Arévalo de León of Guatemala extending congratulations on the Central American nation’s Independence Day. Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent similar messages to the Guatemalan leader. The Emirates News Agency reported that the cables conveyed best wishes for continued progress and prosperity for the people of Guatemala. The communications reflect longstanding diplomatic courtesies exchanged between the two nations on national occasions.
Guatemala marks its Independence Day on September 15 each year to commemorate the signing of the Act of Independence from Spain in 1821. Historical records show that the declaration in Guatemala City paved the way for the independence of several Central American countries including El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. The event ended Spanish colonial rule in the region without a major armed conflict in Guatemala itself. Subsequent developments led to the formation of the Federal Republic of Central America before Guatemala established itself as an independent republic in 1847.
The United Arab Emirates and Guatemala have maintained diplomatic relations for more than three decades according to statements from Guatemala’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Guatemala opened an embassy in the UAE in 2019 to deepen engagement in economic and political areas. A mechanism for political consultations was established through a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023. These steps have created structured channels for dialogue on trade promotion and investment attraction between the two countries.
United Nations COMTRADE data places the value of Guatemala’s exports to the UAE at 141.41 million dollars in 2024. The figures show that coffee, tea, mate and spices accounted for 135.36 million dollars of those shipments with cardamom representing a significant share of regional imports from Guatemala. Additional exports included edible fruits and nuts valued at 4.71 million dollars. The trade balance highlights opportunities for further diversification as both sides pursue expanded commercial ties.
Discussions between officials from Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a Guatemalan delegation led by Economy Minister Gabriela García focused on cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure and manufacturing during a meeting in February 2025. The Gulf Today reported that the parties examined prospects for joint ventures and participation in trade exhibitions to connect businesses from both countries. Ajman Chamber of Commerce also held talks with Guatemala’s ambassador to the UAE exploring sectors such as tourism, agriculture and education. These engagements build on a pattern of growing private-sector interest in bilateral partnerships.
Guatemala and the UAE signed terms of reference for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in February 2026 according to the Guatemalan News Agency. The pact aims to diversify markets and attract investments as outlined in a statement from Guatemala’s foreign ministry. Guatemalan officials have expressed interest in UAE expertise for infrastructure projects including ports and airports. Separate discussions have addressed potential agreements on air services and the prevention of double taxation to support increased economic activity.
