In recent years, Unikie has expanded its presence in the dynamic and rapidly evolving market of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This expansion aligns with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Finland and the UAE, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
Celebrating Diplomatic Relations
The UAE is Finland’s largest export market in the MEA region. Recognized as the Arab world’s second-largest economy, the UAE offers unparalleled opportunities for Finnish businesses, including Unikie.
Unikie’s presence in the UAE allows it to be at the forefront of technological advancements, especially in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, smart cities and sustainability / infrastructure. These sectors were the key themes of Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo‘s business delegation visit to the UAE, organized by the Team Finland network, aiming to foster further collaborations in sustainability and digitalization.
The Finnish business delegation met local ministries, governmental organizations and leading technology companies in the area. On Jan 13th, Finland’s prime minister Petteri Orpo was hosting a great reception involving hundreds of local company and government representatives to mark the 50-year Diplomatic Relations between Finland and the UAE. Unikie’s representatives and local customers were invited to this event hosted by Prime Minister.
Meeting Local Needs with Global Expertise
Unikie established its office in the UAE in 2022, strategically located in Masdar City Freezone, Abu Dhabi. This move was spearheaded by Mr. Rauno Vänni, the former GM of Unikie MEA, who played a pivotal role in expanding Unikie’s business footprint in the region. In 2024 Tommi Raitio was chosen to continue Rauno’s excellent work in the UAE.
“The well-managed environment and seamless processes in Masdar City have been instrumental in facilitating Unikie’s growth. Today, Unikie’s UAE operation and local customers have significant contribution to company’s international business growth” , says Tommi Raitio, General Manager, Unikie MEA.
Future Prospects
By leveraging its strategic location and robust political and commercial ties between Finland and UAE, Unikie stands poised to make a lasting impact in the UAE, driving forward both technological advancement and sustainable development with local UAE customers. As the partnership between Finland and the UAE grows stronger, Unikie’s expansion represents a promising chapter in this collaborative journey.
“UAE continues to strongly invest in digitalization, AI advanced software technologies and infrastructure. The UAE’s vision of becoming a global leader in innovation and sustainability aligns seamlessly with Unikie’s expertise and mission. With its local UAE operation Unikie is well-positioned to help UAE customers and partners to grow their technological leadership”, says Juha Ala-Laurila, CEO of Unikie.
Picture: Anne Sjöholm, valtioneuvoston kanslia
