Investopia and Deutsche Bank recently organized an exclusive conference aimed at highlighting the latest developments in the UAE’s business environment and exploring investment opportunities across vital sectors such as retail, manufacturing, tourism, and technology. The event served as a platform to showcase the UAE’s competitive advantages for family enterprises, investors, and international businesses looking to establish or expand their operations in the region.

The conference attracted nearly 30 officials and business leaders from both the UAE government and private sectors. Notable attendees included Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment; Mohammed Al Hawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Investment; and Omar Suwaina Alsuwaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, among others. A high-level delegation from Deutsche Bank was also present, led by Claudio de Sanctis, Member of the Management Board and Head of Private Bank Deutsche Bank AG, along with 50 global investors and entrepreneurs.

During the event, Minister Alsuwaidi emphasized that the UAE, guided by its leadership, has adopted innovative and forward-thinking national visions to foster a competitive investment climate that aligns with global best practices. This strategy has positioned the UAE as a premier destination for business and investment, with over 1.1 million private companies and economic entities now operating in its markets. He stated that the UAE continues to bolster its status as a global hub for the new economy, in line with the “We the UAE 2031” vision, focusing on enabling investments in emerging sectors such as financial technology, circular economy, smart transportation, and advanced manufacturing.

According to Gulf Today, Alsuwaidi noted that supportive platforms like Investopia play a critical role in promoting dialogue, building partnerships, and stimulating investment flows into these essential areas. These initiatives have successfully attracted more than $30.6 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), marking a 35 percent increase compared to 2022. The UAE has also earned the distinction of being the second-largest recipient of new project investments globally in 2023.

He encouraged participants to seize the opportunities available in the UAE, which boasts a strategic location connecting the East with the West and the North with the South. The country offers a competitive business environment that allows for 100 percent foreign ownership of companies, more than 2 000 economic activities, tax incentives, and long-term residency options that are tailored for investors and businesspeople.

Alsuwaidi also highlighted the variety of free economic zones available for business establishment and a comprehensive legislative framework designed to promote expansion into new economy sectors. Saad Osseiran, Head of Private Bank Middle East at Deutsche Bank, remarked on the significance of the conference, stating that it reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a destination for forward-looking investment and economic partnerships.

The event included a presentation on the “National Investment Strategy 2031,” which aims to enhance the UAE’s appeal for FDI in priority sectors. The strategy seeks to double total FDI inflows to approximately 30 percent of total investments in the country by 2031, increasing the current level of 15 percent to Dhs1.3 trillion. Furthermore, the strategy aims to triple the total FDI balance to reach Dhs2.2 trillion by 2031, thereby accelerating sustainable economic growth.

In his remarks, Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi noted that the UAE’s approval of the National Investment Strategy 2031, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, represents a pivotal milestone in solidifying the nation’s status as a global investment hub. He explained that this strategy provides a clear roadmap for attracting foreign direct investment, promoting economic diversification, and ensuring long-term sustainable growth.

Minister Alsuwaidi further stated that the goal is to increase annual FDI inflows from Dhs112 billion to Dhs240 billion by 2031 and to elevate the total FDI stock to Dhs2.2 trillion, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and global partnerships.