Strengthening Economic Ties: Dubai Chambers’ Trade Mission to Serbia

In a proactive effort to enhance economic collaboration, Dubai Chambers recently conducted a trade mission to Belgrade, Serbia. This initiative aims to expand bilateral relations in key sectors, showcasing Dubai’s commitment to establishing strategic partnerships with promising global markets.

Enhancing Bilateral Engagement

Leading the delegation was H.E. Eng. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, alongside H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO. This mission falls under the ‘Growth Corridors’ initiative, which focuses on boosting trade and investment ties in high-potential markets. H.E. Al Mansoori emphasized the importance of this trip, stating, “Our cooperation reflects a dedication to exploring new avenues for economic growth.” He pointed out the necessity of dialogue between the two nations’ business communities to foster partnerships that create high-value opportunities.

During the visit, the delegation engaged in crucial discussions with Serbian stakeholders. Notably, they met with H.E. Jagoda Lazarević, Minister of Domestic and Foreign Trade, where they explored collaborative efforts in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, and logistics. Emphasis was placed on leveraging technology and attracting skilled labor, indicating a shared vision for advancing mutual economic goals.

Opportunities for Partnership

Further promoting collaboration, Dubai Chambers invited Serbian companies to participate in specialized trade exhibitions in Dubai, highlighting the benefits of co-organizing events for direct engagement between businesses. A significant roundtable with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS) featured seven leading Serbian technology entrepreneurs, showcasing Dubai’s strategy to embrace artificial intelligence and support Serbian firms looking to leverage the emirate’s advanced ecosystem.

Additional meetings were organized with institutions like the Science and Technology Park Belgrade (STP Belgrade) to delve into opportunities in innovation, particularly in healthtech, gaming, biotechnology, and blockchain. These discussions aim to enhance Serbia’s entrepreneurial landscape and build a robust collaboration framework between the two regions.

Fostering E-Commerce and Investment

Emphasizing Dubai’s advantages, the delegation also outlined opportunities for Serbian e-commerce companies eyeing expansion. The emirate’s strategic role as a regional logistics hub offers an attractive infrastructure for warehousing and distribution, thus facilitating seamless market access.

Meetings with the Development Agency of Serbia involved discussions on boosting investment flows and identifying cooperation opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and advanced technology. This also included specialized investment potentials in logistics, tourism, artificial intelligence, and pharmaceuticals. With the UAE–Serbia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in mind, Dubai Chambers highlighted the support available for Serbian firms looking to establish operations in Dubai and expand into broader markets.

In summary, the trade mission served as a catalyst for fostering economic cooperation. With non-oil trade between Dubai and Serbia reaching AED 335.8 million in 2024—marking a 43.5% increase from the previous year—the groundwork for future collaborations seems promising. Furthermore, the membership growth of Serbian companies in the Dubai Chamber of Commerce reflects an expanding business landscape, positioning Dubai as a prime location for international partnerships.

Through the ‘Growth Corridors’ initiative, Dubai Chambers continues to align itself with global economic trends, enabling businesses to navigate new markets with ease and confidence while reinforcing their commitment to cultivating sustainable economic growth.