Paris:Business Scale-Up UAE, an initiative by AlNser Holding, conducted its Paris edition on October 1, 2026, at the United Arab Emirates Embassy. The event gathered over 50 participants, including senior decision-makers from French and European companies contemplating the UAE as a potential base for their next growth phase.
According to Emirates News Agency, trade between the UAE and France reached 10.8 billion pounds in 2025, marking a 27% increase, as reported by Business France. The Paris event explored how this burgeoning commercial relationship can present opportunities for individual businesses.
The session commenced with remarks from Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to France, and Mohamed Naser Al Zaabi, Group Chairman and Managing Director of AlNser Holding. The event also featured representatives from organizations such as Business France, Bpifrance, Choose Paris Region, JAFZA, Shuraa, DWTC, ADIO, and Dubai Chambers.
Ambassador Al Raqbani highlighted the robust economic partnership between France and the UAE, noting that over 11,000 French companies are now registered in the UAE, reflecting a 44% increase in 2025. He emphasized the role of Business Scale-Up and the UAE Embassy in Paris in encouraging more French companies to enter the UAE market and capitalize on new opportunities.
Mohamed Naser Al Zaabi addressed the considerations business leaders face when entering new markets and the resilience of the UAE economy. He underscored the UAE's appeal as a hub for living, working, and building businesses, offering global connectivity.
AlNser Holding's presentation covered the UAE's international connectivity and the National Investment Strategy 2031. The group introduced its Scale-Up Hub, which aids companies with market development and operational guidance. JAFZA presented Dubai's D33 economic agenda, while Business France and Shuraa discussed the support and practical aspects of company formation in the UAE, including Shuraa's new Paris office.
Abdulla Al Hashmi of DP World commented on the importance of early decision-making for companies entering new markets. He noted that JAFZA supports 170 French companies, underscoring the strong commercial links between France and the UAE.
Business attendees represented companies across various sectors, including professional services, energy and climate, consumer goods, health and life sciences, mobility and logistics, deep tech and AI, and defense. The scale-ups present had an estimated combined value of 2 billion pounds, with international groups in attendance valued at over 100 billion pounds.
The Paris event's full report is accessible at scaleupuae.com. Business Scale-Up UAE plans to continue its initiative in other markets, with the next edition scheduled for Mumbai in November 2026.