Tánaiste Mary Coughlan will this week lead 82 Irish firms on a two-day trade mission to the United Arab Emirates.
It is hoped the trip will help the Minister and companies strengthen economic links between Ireland and the UAE and encourage long-term opportunities in the region.
Ms Coughlan said the UAE is the fastest growing market for Irish businesses in the Gulf.
"Ireland has enjoyed a strong business relationship with the UAE for several years and in the past ten, there has been significant upsurge in trade between Ireland and the Emirates," the Tánaiste said.
Exports to the UAE from Ireland were worth €290 million last year and more than 35 Irish companies have operations in the Emirates.
Chief executive of Enterprise Ireland Frank Ryan will accompany the Tánaiste on the trade mission on tomorrow and Tuesday.
"The UAE is a modern, dynamic and consumer driven economy with a wealth of opportunities for Irish and Emirati businesses to work together," Mr Ryan said.
PA