"The UAE is benefiting from its visionary leadership's forward-looking approach," stated Al Zeyoudi.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, highlighted that the UAE is benefitting from its forward-looking approach with increased global trade and investment openness. He mentioned that in 2023, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the UAE grew by 35%, while global investment flows declined by 2%. The UAE also improved its global FDI attractiveness, ranking 11th, as per the World Investment Report 2024 by UNCTAD.

Al Zeyoudi emphasized that the UAE is working to solidify its position as a preferred global destination for foreign investors. He mentioned initiatives such as the NextGenFDI initiative, aimed at facilitating company formation and offering streamlined banking, visa, and real estate services. Additionally, he highlighted the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA) program, which aims to stimulate trade and investment flows with strategic markets.

The UAE's FDI inflows in 2023 amounted to $30.7 billion, surpassing its competitors in the Middle East. The UAE accounted for 45.4% of total FDI inflows to the Arab countries. Al Zeyoudi pointed out that the UNCTAD data confirms the UAE's steady progress towards economic diversification and sustainable growth.