Abu Dhabi–Serbia Business Forum Boosts Economic Partnership and Expands Cooperation

TDT | Manama

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Abu Dhabi has taken another major step in strengthening its position as a regional hub for trade and investment by expanding economic ties with European markets. The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, hosted the “Abu Dhabi–Serbia Business Forum,” bringing together a high-level Serbian economic delegation representing more than 30 companies across various sectors.

The forum gathered senior officials, government representatives, and private-sector leaders from both sides to discuss avenues for enhancing trade and investment relations. Participants also explored opportunities for future cooperation in strategic sectors, aiming to further deepen economic ties between Abu Dhabi and Serbia.

Strengthening Trade Ties

The forum comes amid growing trade momentum between the UAE and Serbia. Non-oil trade between the two countries reached approximately US$98 million in 2024, with US$23.6 million recorded in the first quarter of 2025. The UAE remains Serbia’s second-largest trading partner in the GCC, accounting for nearly 43% of Serbia’s total GCC trade in 2024.

A Shared Commitment to Economic Growth

His Excellency Ali Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, said the forum reflects the strength and progress of economic relations between Abu Dhabi and Serbia.

“This forum highlights the expanding partnership between both sides and their commitment to developing quality collaborations in industry, energy, technology, and food security,” Al Marzouqi said. “These efforts support sustainable development and contribute to increasing trade and investment exchanges between the two economies.”

Al Marzouqi noted that the partnership marks a new phase in bilateral economic cooperation, reinforcing the Chamber’s commitment to supporting businesses and enabling them to access promising international markets. He added that the initiative aligns with the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Roadmap 2025–2028, designed to boost private-sector contributions to a diversified, innovation-driven economy.

Mihailo Vesovic, Vice President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the transformative nature of bilateral relations.

“Economic relations between Abu Dhabi and Serbia are witnessing a qualitative shift with the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), expected to double trade levels in the coming years,” he said. “Serbia serves as a strategic gateway to emerging European markets, and we view Abu Dhabi as a long-term investment partner in agriculture, industry, renewable energy, and innovation.”

Abu Dhabi’s Competitive Advantage

Abu Dhabi continues to attract global investors with its diversified and stable economy, supported by business-friendly legislation, advanced infrastructure, and a strategic location linking Asia, Europe, and Africa. The emirate’s integrated industrial zones, modern ports, and world-class logistics facilities further strengthen its role as a regional trade and investment hub.

The emirate also offers a robust set of incentives, including customs exemptions, streamlined digital business services, and logistical support. Ambitious strategies aimed at expanding non-oil sectors, fostering innovation, and increasing investment in clean energy and advanced manufacturing continue to enhance its global competitiveness.

Exploring New Investment Opportunities

During the forum, Emirati and Serbian companies engaged in direct bilateral meetings to explore potential partnerships and discuss opportunities for joint investments in priority sectors. The two sides also reviewed cooperation prospects under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into force in June 2025 and aims to facilitate trade in goods and services while supporting economic diversification.

The event concluded with a shared commitment to building long-term, sustainable economic ties and expanding collaboration across sectors of mutual interest.