Paris: Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, engaged in discussions with Eric Lombard, French Minister of the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, and Nathalie Delattre, Minister Delegate for Tourism, to enhance the economic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and France. The dialogue centered on expanding economic and investment cooperation, opening new business channels, and boosting collaboration in tourism and travel sectors to contribute to sustainable economic development.
According to Emirates News Agency, Abdulla Al Marri emphasized the meeting’s role in broadening the partnership horizons between the UAE and France. He noted the potential to elevate coordination levels by facilitating access to new opportunities and developing experience exchange channels. Al Marri highlighted the shared development visions and complementary economic and tourism assets that support partnership at both governmental and private-sector levels, fostering corporate growth and mutual investment flows.
Al Marri further explained the UAE’s efforts to enhance its legislative and economic framework to strengthen business flexibility and attractiveness. This includes updating laws, providing incentives, and supporting entrepreneurs and SMEs, thereby offering French companies promising opportunities in the UAE markets. The meeting also explored mechanisms to facilitate cooperation, including the use of advanced and digital technologies and artificial intelligence for economic growth.
The UAE minister affirmed the significance of tourism cooperation, reflecting the strong strategic relationship between the two countries. He elaborated on the UAE’s initiatives to support sustainable tourism and innovative products, enhancing cultural and economic exchange with France. The discussion also touched upon building partnerships in developing circular economy policies, smart infrastructure, and sustainable transport.
Both parties recognized tourism as a vital area for future cooperation. They discussed expanding joint tourism programs, coordinating in international events, and exchanging expertise in sustainable tourism to support long-term sector growth. The UAE-French relationship has witnessed significant growth in recent years, evidenced by the presence of over 15,000 French commercial licenses in the UAE.
By the end of May 2025, the number of registered French trademarks in the UAE stood at 18,500, underscoring the robust economic partnership and the UAE’s appeal as a destination for French businesses. In tourism, French tourists visiting the UAE increased by 15% in 2024, reaching 648,704, with 245,269 visiting in the first quarter of 2025. Additionally, 58 direct weekly flights between the two countries bolster mutual tourism flows.