UAE, Syria Pledge to Deepen UAE-Syria Economic Cooperation Following Dubai Meeting
UAE and Syria agreed to strengthen UAE-Syria economic cooperation after a Dubai meeting between Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri and Syrian Economy Minister Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al‑Shaar.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri and Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al‑Shaar met in Dubai to discuss expanding economic ties, investment and joint development projects between the United Arab Emirates and the Syrian Arab Republic. The talks focused on practical steps to broaden trade, enhance private sector links and unlock investment opportunities in sectors singled out by both delegations. Officials described the meeting as a continuation of longstanding fraternal relations and a platform to scale up cooperation in the years ahead.
Meeting held at Dubai ministry
The ministers convened at the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism’s Dubai offices for bilateral discussions aimed at accelerating economic engagement. Both sides reviewed the foundation of decades-long ties and emphasised a mutual interest in turning diplomatic goodwill into concrete projects. Delegations included senior officials charged with investment promotion, legal frameworks and sectoral development to ensure follow-through on agreed steps.
Focus on new economy and tourism
A key element of the talks was cooperation in the new economy and tourism sectors, where the UAE sees scope for rapid collaboration. Officials noted opportunities to share expertise in digital services, fintech, hospitality management and destination development. The UAE highlighted its regulatory platforms and investment mechanisms that can support Syrian projects in these fields.
Priority sectors identified for partnership
Ministers identified several priority sectors for targeted cooperation, including infrastructure, logistics, advanced industries and entrepreneurship. These areas were chosen for their potential to generate jobs and strengthen supply chains linking the two markets. Both delegations discussed ways to structure partnerships that blend Emirati capital and know‑how with Syrian assets and labour.
Emirati commitment to invest in Syria
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri reiterated the UAE’s readiness to continue investing and developing projects in the Syrian market under the guidance of national leadership. He outlined the UAE’s approach of promoting sustainable, commercially viable ventures that encourage private sector participation. Emirati officials stressed that investment flows would aim to support long‑term economic recovery and regional integration.
Syrian authorities outline economic opening
Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al‑Shaar described Syria’s intention to undertake a new phase of economic opening, leveraging the country’s strategic location and existing economic capabilities. He said Syrian policy will increasingly prioritise private sector engagement and investor protections to attract foreign capital. The Syrian minister emphasised reforms to make the business environment more attractive and to fast‑track priority infrastructure and industry projects.
Steps to connect Emirati and Syrian businesses
Both sides agreed to strengthen channels of communication between chambers of commerce, industry associations and investment promotion entities to boost business-to-business ties. Plans discussed include joint business councils, investment roadshows and sectoral working groups to identify bankable projects. Officials also explored mechanisms to streamline due diligence, licensing and legal frameworks to facilitate cross‑border investment.
The ministers reviewed a series of Emirati economic policies and initiatives intended to enhance competitiveness and openness, noting potential synergies with Syrian development priorities. UAE representatives underscored reforms that modernise economic regulation and expand incentives for companies in growth sectors. Syrian counterparts welcomed collaboration that could accelerate reconstruction‑related projects and wider economic revitalisation.
Both delegations pledged to convert dialogue into action by mapping specific projects and establishing timelines for technical teams to follow up. They agreed that early deliverables should target visible, high‑impact projects capable of building investor confidence on both sides. Ministers also called for regular ministerial and technical meetings to monitor progress and resolve operational challenges.
The meeting in Dubai marked a significant step in formalising the bilateral economic agenda between the UAE and Syria, with an emphasis on private sector-led growth and sustainable investment. Officials said further announcements and project agreements are expected as working groups finalise proposals and investment structures. The renewed engagement aims to broaden trade links, catalyse new investment and deepen economic integration between the two countries.
