UAE and France have discussed ways to strengthen economic cooperation between the UAE and France, with a focus on tourism, aviation, entrepreneurship, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, held a bilateral meeting with Serge Papin, France’s Minister for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Trade, Crafts, Tourism, and Purchasing Power.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the UAE delegation’s visit to France, led by the Minister of Economy and Tourism, to participate in VivaTech 2026, the leading entrepreneurship and advanced technology exhibition.
Al Marri affirmed that the both countries share advanced and distinguished economic and investment ties, thanks to the support and forward-looking vision of both leaderships, which seek to further strengthen these relations and serve the sustainable development of the two economies.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism
“The French business community in the UAE has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. The total number of French companies registered in the country increased from 7,089 at the end of 2024 to 10,202 by the end of 2025, representing an exceptional 44 percent growth. This momentum has continued into 2026, with 1,153 new French companies established during the first five months of the year alone, bringing the total number of French companies operating in the Emirates to more than 11,000 today.”
During the meeting, the two sides discussed avenues for strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector through capacity-building initiatives and the establishment of new partnerships between academic institutions specializing in tourism and hospitality management in both countries.
They also highlighted the importance of mutually promoting tourist attractions and landmarks in the both countries, which would help foster greater cultural understanding and further strengthen the bonds between the two friendly nations.
The two ministers also explored opportunities for collaboration under the programs of UN Tourism and discussed joint initiatives aimed at supporting the growth and sustainable development of the sector, particularly as the Emirates is set to host the next UN Tourism Executive Council meeting during the second half of this year.
