How Nigel Farage and Reform fell in love with the UAE

Nigel Farage, leader of the right-wing political party Reform UK, has undergone a significant shift in his stance towards the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In December 2023, Farage expressed strong opposition to the UAE's plans to take over The Telegraph, citing concerns over the absolute monarchy and poor human rights record in the Gulf state (source 414bc202-4b7).

However, just a few months later, Farage was found at a lavish private party hosted by the UAE's high-end Ritz-Carlton hotel, attended by several key figures from Reform UK and the UAE government (source 414bc202-4b7).

During his keynote speech at the event, Farage praised the UAE for its efforts in banning the Muslim Brotherhood and expressed his desire for Britain to emulate the UAE's approach, particularly in curbing migration and implementing mass deportations (source 414bc202-4b7). This marked a stark contrast to his previous criticisms of the UAE and demonstrated a newfound appreciation for the country's policies.

Farage's transformation is not an isolated instance, as he also hosted a private lunch with wealthy UAE-based businessmen, including Richard Tice, another prominent figure in Reform UK, at a beachside restaurant in Dubai (source 414bc202-4b7). These actions suggest a deepening of the relationship between Reform UK and the UAE, and provide insight into the UAE's strategy in engaging with Western political parties.