Page 637 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - OCTOBER 2025 (Part 2)

10/9/25, 3:31 PM UAE and France Discuss Strengthening Economic and Tourism Cooperation - The Gulf Observer
sector’s contribution to the sustainable economic growth of the two nations.
Minister Al Marri emphasized that the meeting represents a valuable opportunity to
broaden the scope of the UAE–France partnership and raise it to new levels of
coordination. He underlined the importance of enabling business communities to
access emerging opportunities, exchange expertise, and expand cooperation between
government and private sectors.

Highlighting the shared development visions of both countries, Al Marri noted that the
UAE continues to modernize its legislative and economic frameworks to enhance
business flexibility and competitiveness. Through updated laws, incentives, and
support mechanisms for entrepreneurs and SMEs, the UAE offers attractive
opportunities for French investors and companies seeking entry into its dynamic
market.

The two sides discussed practical mechanisms to facilitate access for Emirati and
French companies to opportunities in priority sectors, while also exploring cooperation
in advanced and digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and the circular economy.
They further addressed potential partnerships in developing smart infrastructure,
sustainable transport, and startup ecosystems.

On tourism cooperation, Al Marri affirmed that the partnership between the UAE and
France reflects the depth of their strategic relationship. He noted that the UAE
continues to launch sustainable tourism initiatives and develop high-quality products
and services to meet growing global demand, while strengthening cultural and
economic exchanges with France.

He further stated that the UAE’s proactive approach in advancing tourism infrastructure
and regulatory frameworks creates a flexible and investor-friendly environment. This,
he said, provides promising opportunities for enhanced collaboration with France’s
tourism and travel sectors at both governmental and private levels.
Both sides underscored the importance of tourism as a key avenue of bilateral
cooperation, agreeing to expand joint tourism programs, facilitate travel between the
two countries, coordinate participation in international events, and exchange expertise
in green and sustainable tourism.

UAE–French relations have witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with the
UAE currently hosting over 15,000 commercial licenses held by French entities across
various sectors. As of May 2025, 18,500 French trademarks were registered in the
UAE, underscoring the country’s status as a preferred destination for French
businesses in the region.

Tourism ties have also strengthened significantly. In 2024, 648,704 French tourists
visited the UAE—a 15 percent increase compared with 2023. During the first quarter of
2025, the UAE welcomed 245,269 French visitors. Currently, 58 direct weekly flights
operate between the two countries, further facilitating tourism and economic exchange.

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