His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the Minister of Economy and Tourism, led the delegation from the United Arab Emirates at the 117th regular session of the Arab Economic and Social Council, held yesterday at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo. The gathering was attended by Jumaa Mohammed Al Kit, Advisor to the Minister of Economy and Tourism, and Mohammed Saleh Shalwah Al Taniqi, also an advisor in Arab League affairs, along with various ministers and officials from participating Arab nations.
The meeting focused on enhancing mutual Arab cooperation in economic and social domains, developing sustainable development plans, and coordinating efforts on priorities at both regional and international levels to support Arab economic and social integration.
His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri emphasized that the UAE, under the guidance of its wise leadership, is committed to actively contributing to the formulation and implementation of economic and social initiatives aimed at boosting the integration of Arab economies.
He pointed out that the meeting serves as a crucial platform for dialogue and experience exchange, unifying efforts among Arab states, and innovating new initiatives and projects to promote sustainable economic and social development.
His Excellency noted that the agenda topics align with regional priorities in light of current economic and geopolitical changes, particularly regarding the development of small and medium enterprises, improving the business and investment climate, supporting digital transformation, and empowering youth and women economically.
He reviewed several pioneering Emirati initiatives that are set to support economic and social development in the Arab region, highlighting the “Arab Women’s Economic Empowerment Observatory,” which offers a unified platform to enhance women’s involvement in the economy and develop their leadership and professional skills, in addition to initiatives such as the “Arab Reading Challenge,” the “Arab Children’s Parliament,” and the “Makers of Hope” initiative.
Furthermore, he addressed various economic achievements attained by the UAE, such as ranking seventh globally in economic strength and stability according to the Global Soft Power Index for 2025.
His Excellency mentioned the UAE markets welcomed approximately 250,000 new companies last year and that the non-oil GDP grew by 5.7% during the first half of 2025.
He emphasized the importance of focusing on artificial intelligence in upcoming council sessions as a priority sector and highlighted the UAE’s leading experience in this critical area, noting that about 97% of AI tools are utilized in the country, one of the highest rates globally.
The council additionally discussed the future work plan for Arab economic cooperation, which includes eliminating customs barriers, completing requirements for the Arab Customs Union, and activating the Greater Arab Free Trade Area, along with developing transport networks and logistical connections among Arab countries.
The program also encompasses enhancing intra-investments, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, fostering entrepreneurship activities, and executing joint initiatives to promote digital transformation and economic innovation.
On the social front, the council reviewed several initiatives aimed at supporting public health, expanding educational opportunities and future skill development, and enhancing cultural and media cooperation among member states.
Abdulla Bin Touq:
The meeting is an essential platform for dialogue and experience exchange.
250
Thousand new companies established in the country during 2025.
97 %
Utilization of AI tools in the UAE.
Discussion of opportunities to enhance cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence.
Exploration of developing transport networks and logistical connections among Arab nations.