Canadian exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) hit a record high of 509 million U.S. dollars in 2006, the Khaleej Times reported on Saturday.

The figure was announced during Canada Week 2007, a biannual celebration of Canadian culture and sports on Feb. 16-22 in Dubai, the report said.

The volume of Canadian exports to the UAE reached a record high of 509 million dollars in 2006, compared to 193 million dollars in 2000, the fastest growth in the Middle East and North Africa region.

According to the report, more than 40 Canadian companies have set up offices in the UAE and the Canadian Embassy and consulate are currently assisting Canadian companies in pursuing projects worth more than 2 billion dollars in the region.

With over 40 Canadian companies with a firm presence in the UAE, it is evident that the growth of trade between the two countries has strengthened the interest of Canadian investors in the UAE, the report quoted Chairman of Canadian Business Council Andrew Tice as saying.