Italian investments in the UAE continue to demonstrate significant growth, reflecting the deepening bilateral relationship between Italy and the UAE. This ongoing expansion highlights a robust partnership that spans various sectors, including finance, tourism, and infrastructure, showcasing the strategic cooperation between the two nations. In this context, Lorenzo Fanara, the Italian ambassador to the UAE, has praised the notable achievements attained through this partnership.
His Excellency Lorenzo Fanara, the Italian ambassador to the UAE, commended the significant achievements made by the Italian Republic and the United Arab Emirates in their partnership, noting remarkable progress in political, economic, investment, commercial, tourism, and strategic cooperation. This statement was made during a press conference on the occasion of Italian National Day, where he emphasized what he described as a historic year in relations between the two countries.
He stated, “The friendship between Rome and Abu Dhabi has continued to deepen and flourish. This year marked a significant milestone with the official visit of His Excellency Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic, to the UAE, which is the first official visit by an Italian head of state to the United Arab Emirates.”
Ambassador Fanara pointed out that Italian investments in the UAE continue to grow at a remarkable pace, with around 600 Italian companies currently operating throughout the country. He emphasized that these companies have shown great confidence in the prospects of the UAE economy and the stability of its institutions, maintaining their existing investments while actively seeking new business opportunities. Italian companies are active in various sectors, including oil and gas, engineering, infrastructure, legal services, and professional consulting.
Italy’s contribution is also evident in the urban and industrial landscape of the United Arab Emirates, as Italian architects, designers, and construction companies have played a role in some of the UAE’s most prominent urban projects.
He added, “The prominence of UAE investment in the real estate and hospitality sectors in Italy is increasing. For example, Emirati businessman Mohammed Alabbar has acquired a castle in Umbria, along with hotels in Forte dei Marmi and Venice. The defense sector also emerges as a promising area for expanding cooperation, investment, and strategic partnership.”
Ambassador Fanara described the strengthening of bilateral relations as one of the most significant achievements of the past year, stating, “We have never witnessed such a level of prosperity in bilateral relations.”
The Italian ambassador also noted that tourism remains one of the cornerstones of relations between Italy and the UAE. Emirati travelers continue to show great appreciation for Italy’s rich cultural heritage, its renowned hospitality, its world-class cuisine, and its distinctive lifestyle. Italy is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for cultural tourism, luxury shopping, leisure experiences, and family holidays.
He urged Emirati visitors to go beyond traditional tourist destinations such as Rome, Milan, and Venice, and to discover other wonderful Italian cities, including Naples, Bergamo, and Catania, which are direct destinations for Flydubai flights. He also highlighted the appeal of small historic towns and picturesque rural areas in Italy, which offer authentic cultural experiences and unique local traditions.
The ambassador praised the trade relations between Italy and the UAE, which continue to achieve strong growth and mutual benefits. By the end of 2021, the value of Italian exports to the UAE reached €4.8 billion, noting that upon his arrival in the UAE, he set an ambitious goal of doubling this figure. Over the past four years, exports have nearly doubled, reaching €9.5 billion last year.
He stated, “The positive momentum has continued into 2026, with Italian exports to the UAE increasing by 7.8% in January and by 20.5% in February compared to the corresponding months of 2025. However, March recorded a natural slowdown following the outbreak of regional conflict.”