The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reaffirming its pledge toward sustainable investment, positioning itself as a global model for economic resilience amid ongoing international economic and political uncertainties.
At the AIM Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, the UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, highlighted the nation’s ambitious drive toward economic sustainability through advancements in clean energy and artificial intelligence (AI).
UAE’s Vision for Sustainable Economic Growth
The UAE’s intensified commitment comes as global markets navigate the economic impact of recent international trade disruptions.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized the UAE’s proactive approach, remarking, “We are driving trade growth despite new global challenges by continuously expanding our free trade agreements and opening markets for diverse products.”
Sustainable investment, a cornerstone of UAE’s economic strategy, seeks to generate substantial long-term returns while prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
This strategic approach positions the UAE as a leading example of integrating sustainability into economic policies, crucial in today’s volatile global market conditions.
Record-breaking Foreign Direct Investments
According to the latest World Investment Report, foreign direct investment (FDI) outflows from the UAE reached $22.3 billion in 2023, securing the country the 16th position globally.
Notably, the UAE attracted $30.68 billion in FDI inflows during the same period, marking an impressive year-on-year increase of 35%.
Significantly, the UAE has become the second-largest global recipient of greenfield foreign direct investments after the United States, highlighting its appeal to international businesses due to investor-friendly policies.
Greenfield investments involve companies establishing new operational facilities from scratch in a foreign country, underscoring the UAE’s attractiveness as a stable, lucrative business environment.
“These investments translate directly into tangible economic growth, job creation, and transformative impacts in various sectors globally,” said Dr. Al Zeyoudi.
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs)
The UAE has strategically enhanced its international economic relationships through Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), concluding 27 agreements thus far.
In 2025 alone, the UAE established agreements with Malaysia, New Zealand, Kenya, Ukraine, and the Central African Republic. Negotiations with major economies such as Japan are anticipated to finalize by the end of 2025, according to state news agency WAM.
These CEPAs have significantly contributed to the UAE achieving record-breaking non-oil trade figures of $817 billion in 2024, reflecting a 14.6% annual growth.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi noted that CEPAs play a vital role in connecting UAE-based exporters with global market opportunities, fostering collaborative ventures and private-sector engagement.
Sustainable City 2.0: The Future of Urban Development
Dubai-based SEE Holding also showcased its innovative urban model, Sustainable City 2.0, at the AIM Congress. This next-generation city model prioritizes the integration of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and community wellness.
Fully powered by renewable energy, Sustainable City 2.0 leverages artificial intelligence for energy optimization and sustainable resource management.
Designed with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, Sustainable City 2.0 encourages walking and cycling, fostering healthier lifestyles and stronger community bonds.
Additionally, waste management will adopt a circular economy approach—repurposing, recycling, and converting waste into renewable energy.
“The purpose of Sustainable City 2.0 is clear: putting people at the center of technological advancement and sustainable urban growth in an increasingly AI-driven world,” remarked Faris Saeed, Chairman and CEO of SEE Holding.
Although SEE Holding has yet to announce a specific timeline or location for the project’s launch, it represents a significant step forward in sustainable urban planning.
