UAE and Syria Launch First Investment Forum to Boost Economic Ties

Damascus recently hosted the inaugural UAE-Syria Investment Forum, marking a significant step in strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations. Led by UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, HE Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the delegation aimed to explore new partnerships across vital sectors like energy, logistics, and technology.

• Historic Forum: The first event of its kind focused on integrating the economies of the UAE and Syria.

• High-Value Projects: Discussions included previously announced ventures valued at over $50 billion.

• Diverse Sectors: Cooperation covers 14 different industries, including aviation, healthcare, and food security.

• Strong Trade Foundation: Non-oil trade between the two countries reached $1.3 billion last year.

Historic Forum: The first event of its kind focused on integrating the economies of the UAE and Syria.

High-Value Projects: Discussions included previously announced ventures valued at over $50 billion.

Diverse Sectors: Cooperation covers 14 different industries, including aviation, healthcare, and food security.

Strong Trade Foundation: Non-oil trade between the two countries reached $1.3 billion last year.

Building a Shared Economic Future

The UAE delegation received a warm reception upon arrival in Damascus, reflecting the deep-rooted historical ties between the two countries. During his opening speech, Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized that the goal of the forum is to elevate bilateral relations to serve mutual interests through sustainable development.

Economic integration is viewed as the primary path to increasing competitiveness. The forum focused on moving beyond traditional trade to create high-value projects that benefit the workforce and infrastructure of both nations.

Billion-Dollar Investment Frontiers

Major UAE companies have already signaled their intent to play a massive role in Syria’s economic landscape. Notable projects discussed include Eagle Hills’ potential $50 billion investment and the Al Habtoor Group’s $1.5 billion interest in the tourism sector.

Strategic infrastructure was also a core focus, highlighted by a $800 million memorandum of understanding between DP World and the Port of Tartous. Additionally, Dana Gas is looking into the development of Syrian gas fields to bolster regional energy security.

A Wide Range of Collaboration

The forum sessions provided a direct platform for government officials and private investors to network. These discussions spanned a wide array of industries, ensuring that the partnership is well-rounded and resilient.

Key sectors included:

• Real Estate: Urban development and housing projects.

• Logistics: Enhancing shipping and aviation links.

• Digital Economy: Focusing on technology and digital transformation.

• Agriculture: Ensuring long-term food security for both populations.

Real Estate: Urban development and housing projects.

Logistics: Enhancing shipping and aviation links.

Digital Economy: Focusing on technology and digital transformation.

Agriculture: Ensuring long-term food security for both populations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the UAE-Syria Investment Forum?

The forum aims to create a framework for long-term economic partnership, focusing on joint ventures, trade expansion, and sustainable development projects.

How many Syrian companies currently operate in the UAE?

There are approximately 40,000 Syrian companies registered and operating within the United Arab Emirates.

What specific sectors are being prioritized?

While the forum is broad, there is a heavy emphasis on energy, logistics, tourism, and real estate development.