The Middle East Association (MEA) exists to foster productive relationships and create opportunities for engagement between governments, embassies, businesses, NGOs, academic institutions, think tanks, other organisations and individuals interested in the UK’s relationship with the countries of the Middle East and North Africa.
The MEA works by convening, facilitating and partnering across a wide range of sectors, including business, culture, environment, education, and development. Part of that involves hosting regular social events, private briefings and more bespoke events and activities, which are enjoyable, educational and add value. The aim is to fill an important space and create an environment where dots can be joined and synergies explored by potential partners who might not otherwise have the chance to engage.
Our Activities
Private Business Briefings:
Exclusive sessions where industry leaders and experts share insights and updates on the Middle East.
Annual Mansion House Dinner and Ambassadors Reception:
Prestigious events that bring together senior people to celebrate and strengthen bilateral ties.
Sector-Specific Meetings:
Facilitating targeted discussions and engagements with stakeholders across various sectors, including business, culture, environment, education, and development.
Workshops and Seminars:
Collaborative and educational sessions with other organizations to explore new partnership opportunities and learn about the region.
Key Functions
Engagement Opportunities
The MEA hosts a series of diplomatic and business events throughout the year, including private business briefings, our Annual Dinner, and Ambassadors Reception. These events are designed to deepen understanding and partnerships between the UK and the Middle East. The MEA facilitates meetings and engagement with key stakeholders across various sectors and levels.
Neutral Platform
The Middle East offers a neutral and safe space to discuss issues and hold events. We provide a platform for practitioners and interested observers, including journalists, politicians, and other influential actors to share their insights, create synergies, and foster opportunities for partnership. The MEA supports open dialogue and collaborative approaches to the challenges and opportunities of the region.
Adapting to Change
The Middle East landscape is evolving, and the MEA is committed to driving sustainable growth and cooperation amid these changes. We work with other organisations and institutions to address barriers, ensuring our members are well-prepared to navigate and deal with the region.
Upcoming Events 2024
Cambridge Tech Week: Featuring an Arab ambassadors delegation attending Tech Week in partnership with Cambridge Management Consulting.
Book Club: Book promotion events, including Sir Simon Mayall’s latest book, House of War.
MEA Business Chambers Group: Regular seminars with leaders from MENA bilateral business chambers to identify and develop synergies.
MEA Private Briefings: Exclusive seminars with business leaders and politicians from the MENA region to identify and develop strategic synergies.
Ambassadors Reception: A prestigious gathering of ambassadors, politicians, and VIPs to foster diplomatic and other relationships.
MEA Parliamentary Panel Event: An occasion for members to interact with parliamentarians and discuss key issues impacting UK-Middle East relations.
Gala Dinner: An exclusive dinner that brings together influential figures from the UK and the Middle East.
Membership Benefits
Networking Opportunities:
Connect with high-level professionals, policymakers, and business leaders.
Access to Insights:
Insights, and updates on the latest developments in the region.
Event Invitations:
Access for members to events, briefings, receptions, and workshops.