UAE, Uzbekistan explore partnerships in new economy sectors

The UAE's Minister of Economy and Tourism, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, has met with a high-level delegation from Uzbekistan to explore ways to strengthen economic and investment ties.

The talks focused on expanding cooperation across a range of key sectors, including tourism, aviation, fintech, transport, renewable energy, and the broader new economy, alongside areas such as food security, logistics, manufacturing and banking.

The Uzbek delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Jamshid Khodjaev, and Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Laziz Kudratov.

During the meeting, Bin Touq highlighted the growing economic relationship, noting that more than 2,300 Uzbek companies are now operating in the UAE.

He said the discussions aim to turn opportunities into practical partnerships and joint ventures, while strengthening direct engagement between business communities in both countries.

Tourism ties are also on the rise, with the number of Uzbek visitors to the UAE increasing by 25 per cent, reaching nearly 72,000 in 2025.

UAE officials outlined recent economic reforms designed to support a competitive business environment, including measures to reduce costs, improve liquidity, and streamline customs procedures to attract new investment.

Both sides also discussed future collaboration through Investopia Tashkent, which will be held alongside the Tashkent International Investment Forum, focusing on unlocking investment opportunities across the UAE, Uzbekistan and wider Asian markets.

The meeting reflects a shared commitment to deepening economic cooperation and building a flexible, forward-looking partnership.