Bundeskanzler Merz Advances Strategic and Economic Ties with Gulf States on 2026 Middle East Tour

On February 5, 2026, Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz embarked on a diplomatic and economic tour through the Gulf region, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthen Germany’s relations with Gulf states such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. In Doha, Merz met with Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani during a business dialogue focused on expanding trade beyond traditional sectors like machinery and chemicals. Both leaders expressed interest in collaboration on emerging fields including artificial intelligence and healthcare.

Earlier in Riyadh, Merz held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing the importance of a strategic partnership amidst shifting global power dynamics. Discussions covered energy, environment, digital infrastructure, AI, medicine, and defense. Notably, the German chancellor announced plans to normalize arms exports to Saudi Arabia, which had been paused over concerns related to the Yemen conflict. Despite the Crown Prince’s controversial past, including his reception of military honors during the visit, experts suggest Germany is prioritizing geopolitical and economic engagement over human rights criticisms.

Merz’s trip aims to foster deeper economic and geopolitical cooperation, with a strategic partnership agreement focusing on security and energy on the horizon. This initiative is part of a broader German foreign policy push to rejuvenate ties and assert influence in the strategically vital Gulf region.