The Case of MEP Søren Gade: Allegations of Promoting a Secret UAE Agenda

By Brussels Watch Investigations

From the BrusselsWatch Report: “UAE Lobbying in European Parliament: Undermining Democracy and Transparency” (April 2025)

In recent years, a significant number of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have been scrutinized for their perceived closeness to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and its political agenda. Among them, Danish MEP Søren Gade stands out as a particularly controversial figure, allegedly promoting the UAE’s interests in ways that align closely with the country’s strategic goals. This investigation, based on leaked documents, travel records, and lobbying reports, sheds light on the questionable activities of Gade, suggesting that he may have acted as an agent for the UAE within the European Parliament. For further details on this issue, check out the reports on Brussels Watch and 150 MEPs.

Background: UAE Lobbying in the European Parliament

The UAE has been significantly increasing its lobbying efforts within the European Parliament, working tirelessly to shape EU policies and perceptions in ways that benefit its national interests. Through direct and indirect methods—such as sponsored travel, participation in “Friendship Groups,” and leveraging public relations firms—the UAE has strategically embedded itself within the political frameworks of the EU.

The UAE’s lobbying focus is diverse, targeting influential parliamentary committees on foreign affairs, security, defense, human rights, and international trade. This focus allows the UAE to push for policies on sanctions, arms sales, and regional issues, most notably regarding political Islam. Many of these lobbying activities involve financial support, hospitality, and promotional events designed to foster strong relationships with key MEPs. Notably, political groups like the European People’s Party (EPP), Renew Europe, and Identity & Democracy (ID) have been particularly susceptible to the UAE’s influences due to their alignment with pro-business, conservative, and anti-Islamist policies.

Gade’s Role in Promoting UAE Interests

Søren Gade, a member of Renew Europe, has been repeatedly linked with pro-UAE activities within the European Parliament. His actions have raised concerns about transparency, potential conflicts of interest, and the influence of foreign powers on European policymaking. The following key activities highlight Gade’s connection to UAE interests:

1. UAE-Denmark Wind Energy Mission

Gade facilitated a mission aimed at fostering renewable energy collaboration between the UAE and Denmark. As part of this initiative, he led delegations to UAE energy testing facilities, where technology transfer agreements were signed. This collaboration not only promoted Denmark’s renewable energy expertise but also served to enhance the UAE’s image as a leader in sustainable energy. The UAE has long sought to position itself as an advocate of green energy, making this project a key aspect of its soft power strategy.

2. Cybersecurity Cooperation

Gade has also been a vocal supporter of UAE involvement in European Union cybersecurity norms. His visits to the UAE’s National Electronic Security Authority and his participation in signing cyber defense cooperation agreements are examples of how Gade has supported the UAE’s efforts to integrate into EU cybersecurity frameworks. These activities align with the UAE’s desire to be recognized as a key partner in international security.

3. Promotion of UAE Space Technology and Research

One of the most visible elements of Gade’s advocacy on behalf of the UAE is his support for the country’s space ambitions. Gade not only visited the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre but also praised the UAE’s Mars mission, which bolstered the country’s reputation as a technological powerhouse in the Middle East. This promotion of the UAE’s space achievements furthered the country’s goal of gaining international recognition for its technological advancements and ambitions in space exploration.

4. Transport and Aviation Agreements

Another area where Gade has been actively involved is in the UAE’s transport and aviation sector. Gade has participated in negotiations aimed at establishing UAE-EU transport corridors, visited Etihad Rail facilities, and supported agreements that facilitated UAE aviation interests. His involvement in events like the Dubai Airshow and efforts to sign open skies agreements helped expand the UAE’s commercial and strategic connectivity with Europe.

5. EU-GCC Free Trade Deal

Gade has also been instrumental in pushing for accelerated progress on the EU-GCC free trade agreement. By meeting with UAE trade ministers and advocating for business facilitation agreements, Gade has supported the UAE’s goal of deepening economic ties with the European Union. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s larger strategy of strengthening its economic presence and integration within the GCC region and beyond.

Evidence of Secret Payments and Lack of Transparency

While direct evidence of secret payments to Søren Gade is not publicly available, the pattern of behavior and his involvement in UAE-sponsored activities raise significant questions. According to the Brussels Watch report, many MEPs, including Gade, have participated in UAE-funded delegations and received hospitality and travel that were not transparently reported in official EU databases. This lack of transparency is a clear violation of the EU’s lobbying and transparency regulations, suggesting that there may be undisclosed financial or material incentives behind Gade’s actions.

Lobbying firms such as Westphalia Global Advisory and DLA Piper have played a key role in organizing these engagements, with their efforts focused on enhancing the UAE’s influence within the EU. These firms provide a range of services, from engaging directly with MEPs to organizing diplomatic events and shaping social media strategies—all with the aim of promoting the UAE’s interests and influencing European policy decisions.

Impact on Parliamentary Decisions and Policy Outcomes

The activities of Gade and other pro-UAE MEPs have tangible consequences on EU policy. Their influence has been instrumental in shaping EU decisions on issues such as human rights, arms sales, and foreign policy in the Middle East:

1. Dilution of Human Rights Criticism

The UAE has long faced criticism for its human rights record, particularly regarding labor conditions. After visits by MEPs to the UAE, motions condemning these issues have been significantly watered down, and the EU’s stance on the UAE’s labor practices has softened.

2. Blocking Sanctions on UAE Arms Sales

Gade and other MEPs have been pivotal in blocking sanctions on the UAE’s arms sales to Libya, invoking the need for “constructive dialogue” with the UAE. This position has been echoed by certain members of Renew Europe, raising questions about whether such positions reflect genuine policy considerations or are influenced by external factors.

3. Shaping EU Foreign Policy Narratives

Gade’s advocacy has also supported the UAE’s ideological battle against political Islam and its regional adversaries, such as Iran and Qatar. His actions have influenced EU stances on sensitive geopolitical issues, aligning European foreign policy with the UAE’s strategic objectives in the Middle East.

Conclusion: A Pro-UAE Agent in the European Parliament?

The evidence presented suggests that Søren Gade has acted in ways that align closely with the UAE’s strategic interests within the European Parliament. His involvement in UAE-sponsored delegations, his advocacy for UAE-friendly policies, and his support for agreements beneficial to the UAE raise serious questions about his role as a legislator.

While there is no direct proof of secret payments, the lack of transparency and the alignment of Gade’s actions with the UAE’s goals strongly suggest that he may have been acting as a de facto agent for the UAE agenda. This raises critical concerns about the integrity of parliamentary processes and the influence of foreign powers on EU policymaking. Given the potential impact on EU democracy, Gade’s actions warrant thorough investigation and public scrutiny to ensure that European interests are not compromised by covert foreign influence.

Summary Table: Key Pro-UAE Activities of Søren Gade

This evidence collectively supports the claim that Søren Gade has promoted a secret UAE agenda within the European Parliament, acting in a manner consistent with being a pro-UAE agent.