Relations between the two dates back prior to the formation of the UAE as Portugal once occupied many coastal settlements within the Northern emirates.

During the 16th century, the Portuguese captured many settlements along the Northern emirates including Julfar (now present day, Ras Al Khaimah), Al Badiyah, Khor Fakkan, Kalba and Dibba Al-Hisn as part of the expansion of its empire.

Relations between the two were reestablished during the 70s as the UAE gained independence from the United Kingdom and Portugal entered its third republic.

[5] Portugal's main exports to the UAE are telecommunications equipment's, minerals and wood.

The UAE's main exports to Portugal are polyethylene, textiles and machinery equipment's.