Page 63 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (Part 1)_Neat

Press Release

to explore investment trends, shape policy, devise innovative solutions to challenges, and
transform them into sustainable opportunities for the future.”

Investment opportunities in the UAE

H.E. added: “Investopia Europe has successfully become a vital platform that solidifies economic
cooperation between the UAE and Italy and fosters dialogue between the UAE and European
business communities, enabling them to explore promising investment opportunities in emerging
sectors in both markets.” H.E. further noted that this edition plays a crucial role in strengthening
sustainable partnerships, accelerating digital transformation, and reviewing adaptable policies and
strategies that support comprehensive economic growth, particularly in light of today’s rapid
global economic shifts.

Italy: A Key trade partner for the UAE in Europe

H.E. continued: “The UAE considers Italy a key economic partner in Europe. The selection of
Milan - Italy’s capital of commerce and fashion - to host Investopia Europe reaffirms the strength
and depth of the economic ties between the two countries. Milan also serves as a world-class hub
for business and creative industries.”

11,000 Italian brands in the UAE

The UAE’s exports to Italy increased by 50 per cent in 2024 to total USD 1.2 billion compared to
that of 2023. Currently, there are nearly 11,000 Italian brands operating across various economic
sectors in the UAE. As for bilateral investments, the UAE’s investments in Italy reached around
USD 81 million between 2019 and 2023, primarily in tourism, hospitality, transport, and logistics.
Meanwhile, Italian FDI inflows into the UAE reached approximately USD 519 million during the
same period, reflecting the growing momentum of economic and investment exchanges between
the two sides.

Invitation to the Italian business community

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq invited the Italian business community to expand its investments in the
UAE and capitalize on the attractive incentives and advantages offered by the local business
environment. These include 100 per cent foreign ownership, the availability of more than 2,000
licensed economic activities, tax incentives, long-term residency options for investors and
entrepreneurs, a wide array of integrated and sector-specific free zones, and a comprehensive
legislative framework that encourages expansion in future economic sectors.

His Excellency emphasized the UAE’s keenness to enhance dialogue between the private sectors
of both countries through dynamic platforms such as the UAE-Italy Business Council and the
forthcoming Joint Economic Committee.