Joint investments between Greece and the United Arab Emirates have exceeded €4 billion. Bilateral non-oil trade has also grown by 80% over the past five years. Both countries now aim to build stronger links across energy, technology, shipping and real estate.
UAE Minister of Investment Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi said Greece offers major opportunities for future investment. He highlighted its strong tourism sector, access to European markets and role in global shipping. He also discussed how the UAE is responding to the economic impact of the recent regional conflict.
Real estate and hospitality remain important areas for cooperation. Greece has a well-established tourism industry and growing demand for modern urban projects. UAE investors can bring capital, development skills and international experience to these projects.
Alsuwaidi said the Athens Riviera is one area where both sides can explore new opportunities. UAE representatives took part in the Athens Riviera Summit last year. The annual event helps governments, investors and businesses discuss possible projects and build partnerships.
The investment relationship already has a strong base. In 2022, ADQ signed an investment cooperation agreement with the Hellenic Development Bank and the Hellenic Development Bank of Investments. ADQ has since been consolidated under L’IMAD Holding Company. The initiative has passed its original €4 billion investment target.
The UAE also wants Greek companies to expand their activities in the Emirates. The Ministry of Investment supports businesses from their first inquiries through to their launch, growth and reinvestment. It works with partners across all seven emirates to make the process easier and help investors find suitable opportunities.
Beyond property and tourism, both countries see room for deeper ties in digital technology, advanced manufacturing, shipping and financial services. Their different strengths could help businesses reach new markets and create long-term growth.
Artificial intelligence is a key part of this plan. A technology cooperation agreement signed in May 2026 provides a basis for joint work on digital infrastructure, AI applications and innovation. The goal is to combine investment and technical knowledge to support the digital development of both economies.
Shipping is another major area. Greece controls more than 19% of global shipping tonnage, giving it a strong position in the maritime sector. The UAE has extensive experience in logistics and international trade. Closer cooperation could improve transport links, support supply chains and create new business opportunities.
Financial services could also bring the two markets closer. The Dubai International Financial Centre had more than 10,000 active companies in the first half of 2026, up 30% from a year earlier. Abu Dhabi Global Market also recorded 54% growth in assets under management. Stronger links between these financial hubs and Greece could help businesses access capital and expand abroad.
The regional conflict has tested parts of the UAE economy, especially aviation and tourism. However, Alsuwaidi said the country has continued to operate and maintain links with global markets. He pointed to economic diversification, strong institutions and investment in infrastructure as key sources of resilience.
Non-oil activities accounted for 79.2% of UAE gross domestic product in the first half of 2026. Non-oil foreign trade rose 13.1% to AED1.94 trillion. These figures show the growing role of sectors beyond oil in supporting the economy.
The government has also taken steps to protect trade and business activity. Dubai Customs’ Green Corridor moved more than 203,000 containers worth AED33.9 billion between March and June 2026. The Central Bank introduced measures to support liquidity and financing during the disruption.
International firms have continued to expand in the UAE. Bain Capital and EQT opened offices in Abu Dhabi after March, while Capital Group received regulatory approval in October. These moves suggest that global investors still see opportunities in the country despite regional uncertainty.
Greece also offers the UAE a useful link to European markets. Its location, shipping industry and trade connections complement the Emirates’ logistics network and investment capacity. Together, the countries could develop stronger trade routes between Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
More than 120 Greek companies established operations in the UAE in the year to July 2026. Both governments have also identified projects of strategic importance during political consultations held in Athens in July. The UAE has welcomed Greece’s support for talks on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the UAE and the European Union.
Digital infrastructure is likely to remain a major focus. In 2024, the UAE Ministry of Investment and Greece’s Ministry of Digital Governance signed an agreement to encourage investment in Greek digital infrastructure. The plan included data center projects with potential capacity of up to 500 megawatts.
Energy is another promising area. Masdar’s acquisition of Terna Energy in 2025 strengthened the partnership in renewable power. Terna Energy is working on projects involving renewable generation, energy storage and hybrid systems, with a target of six gigawatts of operational capacity by 2030.
The Amfilochia pumped-storage project and a floating offshore wind pilot in the Aegean are among the initiatives linked to this expansion. Both countries hope such projects will support cleaner energy and improve regional energy connections.
Alsuwaidi said the next step is to turn agreements into projects that can deliver lasting commercial value. Governments can help by connecting reliable partners, improving investment conditions and removing barriers. Platforms such as Investopia Athens can bring companies and officials together to advance plans across technology, energy, shipping and infrastructure.
