The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has scrapped its economic boycott against Israel to allow trade and financial agreements between the two countries in another key step towards normal ties.
UAE's state-run WAM news agency said Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, had formally ended the boycott of Israel which had stood since 1972.
The new decree, announced at the weekend, allows Israeli firms to do business in the UAE and also allows for the purchase and trade of Israeli goods.
WAM said the move was part of "a roadmap toward launching joint cooperation, leading to bilateral relations by stimulating economic growth and promoting technological innovation".
