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Expert guidance for UK–GCC market entry & EXPANSION

We provide strategic guidance on GCC market entry and expansion while connecting UK companies with trusted Gulf partners to support sustainable, long-term development.

SERVICES

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MARKET ENTRY & EXPANSION ADVICE

Strategic market entry advice and regulatory guidance, including options for establishing a compliant and effective local presence across the GCC.

Skyline of a modern city with tall skyscrapers along a waterfront

Access to Business & Government Leaders

Introductions to senior decision-makers across GCC and UK business networks and key governmental stakeholders, supporting credible engagement and relationship building.

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PRACTICAL & ON THE GROUND SUPPORT

Support with business trip planning, market launch activities, and targeted sector-focused events, as well as recommendations for trusted local service providers.

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UK-Gulf Connect Ltd is a strategic advisory firm helping companies access senior government and private-sector networks across Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC, including Oman and the UAE. 

We support clients in navigating regional complexities and building trusted, long-term partnerships across the Gulf in new and fast growing economic sectors including technology, infrastructure, clean energy and financial services.

UK-Gulf Connect was founded in 2014 by former UK diplomat Chris Innes-Hopkins who has worked widely within the GCC and MENA region since 2001 to promote trade, investment and economic development.

ABOUT

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PROJECTS

  • Two crossed flags, one of the United Kingdom and one of Saudi Arabia, above the text "Saudi British Joint Business Council" on a white background.

    Saudi British Joint Business Council (SBJBC UK)

  • Logo of Invest Oman with Arabic and English text.

    Oman Investment Opportunities

  • Logo of the National Center for Privatization & PPP with Arabic text and a stylized graphic of a palm tree and geometric shapes.

    Saudi National Centre for PPP & Privatisation

  • Logo of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Investment, featuring a palm tree and crossed swords in a green square, with Arabic and English text.

    Saudi Ministry of Investment

  • Two men in suits signing documents at a conference table with flags of the UK and Saudi Arabia, in front of a large digital display screen reading 'The UK and Saudi Arabia' at a business event in a luxurious venue.

    Saudi UK Tech Hub

  • A formal meeting with nine men sitting at a long wooden table with computer screens, in a conference room decorated with flowers and small flags, including the United Kingdom flag in the foreground, and Saudi Arabian flags on the table. The men are wearing traditional Middle Eastern attire, including thobes and shemagh head coverings.

    Delegations to Saudi Arabia & the GCC

  • A group of fifteen diverse business people standing together indoors in front of a digital display, with two flags behind them and framed pictures on the wall to the left.

    Event Delivery in Saudi Arabia & the GCC

  • A man is giving a speech at a conference titled 'UK Saudi Business, Trade & Partnership Forum,' with a large audience seated in front. The backdrop displays the logos of the Department for Business & Trade and the Saudi British Joint Business Council, along with flags of the UK and Saudi Arabia. Behind the speaker, a stained glass window depicts a historical scene with multiple figures, and the room has ornate columns and religious artwork.

    UK Investment Conferences

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  • "“During your six Middle East postings, your ability to negotiate the local politics and your success in promoting British trade and investment was widely acknowledged. We have relied a great deal on your dedication and expertise and have much to thank you for.”

    —Rt Hon William Hague MP, British Foreign Secretary

  • “Thank you for being such a great partner and for everything you have done for Saudi Arabia and looking forward to further cooperation.”

    —HE Dr Eiman Al-Mutairi, Deputy Minister of Commerce Saudi Arabia & CEO National Competitiveness Council

  • “Congratulations on your incredible ten years as CEO and UK Executive Director of the Saudi British Joint Business Council. Your leadership and dedication during this time have been nothing short of fantastic and impactful, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunities to work alongside you.”

    —Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli, Rt Hon the Lord Mayor of London