Boris Johnson Targeted Abu Dhabi Wealth-Allegedly

Leaked documents suggest former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson may have used his post-office influence to assist a private business venture targeting Abu Dhabi’s wealth. The files, dubbed the “Boris Files” and reviewed by the Guardian, indicate Johnson was hired by Bia Advisory, a relatively unknown climate finance firm, as its “principal adviser” to open doors with the UAE’s ruling elite.

The venture aimed to secure backing from Mubadala, Abu Dhabi’s $300 billion sovereign investment fund. Johnson’s connections, forged during his time as London mayor, foreign secretary, and prime minister, were reportedly seen as crucial for persuading UAE leaders to invest in the climate-focused initiative. Documents show he courted a senior Abu Dhabi official he had previously hosted at No 10 Downing Street, raising questions over potential breaches of ethics rules regarding former prime ministers lobbying foreign officials for personal gain.

Bia Advisory’s plan involved leveraging Johnson’s reputation and network to position the UAE rulers as patrons of a lucrative climate finance initiative. Johnson’s former staffer, Shelley Williams-Walker, was involved in orchestrating these introductions, drawing on her prior experience in Downing Street and at the Office of Boris Johnson. While former PMs are entitled to £115,000 annually from taxpayer funds for public duties, the leaked files suggest Johnson’s activities may have blurred the line between public and private interests.

The revelations come amid ongoing scrutiny of Johnson’s post-premiership work and the ethical implications of former leaders engaging in private business lobbying abroad. The documents highlight potential risks when high-profile political figures leverage relationships cultivated in public office for private financial gain, reigniting debate over transparency and accountability in post-office engagements.

Key Takeaways:

Boris Johnson allegedly lobbied a senior Abu Dhabi official for a private business venture.

Bia Advisory aimed to secure investment from Mubadala’s $300bn sovereign fund.

Leaked files raise ethics questions about former PMs using political influence for profit.

Adapted From:

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/sep/09/boris-johnson-secretly-lobbied-uae-business-venture-leak-suggests