Dubai: The Ministry of Economy and Tourism hosted the MENA-OECD Business Advisory Board (BAB) on 29th-30th October 2025, under the theme ‘Building Diversified and Connected Economies: Private Sector Strategies,’ in the presence of Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event aimed to promote public-private collaboration, advance flexible and inclusive growth policies, and foster opportunities for growth in new economy sectors and sustainability initiatives. The meeting, held at Expo City Dubai, was attended by a range of notable figures including Dr. Maria Hanif Alqassim, Dr. Abdulrahman Al Muaini, and representatives from various public and private sectors and specialized institutions across the Middle East, Africa, and OECD countries.
Bin Touq highlighted the UAE’s advancements in economic policies and legislations, which have enhanced its competitiveness and attractiveness for investment and entrepreneurial projects. Over the past five years, the UAE has introduced numerous economic laws, policies, and decisions, fostering a competitive economic environment that supports future trends and aligns with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision. The non-oil sectors accounted for over 77 per cent of GDP in Q1 2025, and the launch of the Green Innovation District at Expo City Dubai underscores the UAE’s commitment to integrating economic growth with environmental sustainability.
The collaboration between the UAE and OECD is seen as a model for effective institutional partnership, leading to joint projects and initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The MENA region is experiencing growth across key economic and tourism sectors, with an increase in inbound tourism and growth in the industrial sector driven by major projects and technology partnerships.
Dr. Maria Alqassim emphasized the importance of the meeting in reinforcing public-private dialogue and cooperation, serving as a platform for developing practical solutions in tourism, SMEs, and agribusiness. Carlos Conde of the OECD noted the significance of the Board meeting in enhancing the cooperation between the OECD and the UAE, contributing to a resilient and innovative economic environment.
Marta Blanco, co-chair of BAB, remarked on the meeting’s role in strengthening economic cooperation between MENA countries and the OECD, reinforcing the private sector’s role in crafting policies for sustainable growth. The meeting featured six panel sessions covering topics such as infrastructure integration, trade and investment, innovation ecosystems, tourism strategies, SME growth, and agribusiness cooperation.
These discussions underscored the importance of interconnected infrastructure, regulatory convergence, cross-border innovation, sustainable tourism, SME support, and agribusiness innovation in driving economic growth and competitiveness in the region.