"Abu Dhabi-Japan Business Connect" highlights investment opportunities in priority sectors

In line with its new strategic roadmap to facilitate cross-border partnerships and support economic diversification, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI) organised the Abu Dhabi- Japan Business Connect Forum today in Tokyo. The high-level forum brought  together leaders representing public and private sectors from Abu Dhabi and Japan to explore investment opportunities in priority sectors and share ideas on driving sustainable development  and innovation.

Addressing the Forum, His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADCCI, said: “Japan has played a pivotal role in shaping our development, from urban planning to industrial growth, and it remains one of our top trading partners. Over the past five years, UAE’s trade with Japan grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9 percent; our investments in Japan have more than doubled over the past five years, and our country attracted over 80 percent of Japanese investments in the Middle East”.

H.E. Al Zaabi added: “Our advanced infrastructure, business-friendly ecosystem, smart city and quality of life initiatives make us a magnet for global talent, entrepreneurs, and investors. Trade has been a key enabler of our economic growth and diversification. In 2024, Abu Dhabi’s non-oil trade rose by 9 percent, with exports up 16 percent, and imports 3 percent. Compared to 2019, non-oil exports surged 86.4 percent, and overall non-oil trade grew 44 percent, reflecting our commitment to enabling global business through regulatory reforms, ease of doing business, and seamless digital integration.”

H.E. emphasised importance of collaborative efforts with Japan to create a future that empowers economies, enriches societies, and inspires future generations.

During the event,  ADCCI and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) signed of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deepen business relations and create new opportunities for collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Japan. It reinforces both sides’ shared vision of promoting long-term trade relations and advancing sustainable growth, particularly in innovation, sustainability, and advanced technologies.

H.E. Shamis Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of ADCCI, and Nobuyuki Nakajima, Managing Director of JETRO UAE & MENA,  signed the MOU, marking the beginning of a new phase of collaboration.

H.E. Shamis said: "The Abu Dhabi- Japan Business Connect Forum provides a unique opportunity to drive investment, foster innovation, and create sustainable partnerships across industries. By leveraging our shared values of growth, sustainability, and technological advancement, we are not only unlocking new opportunities for businesses in both regions but also contributing to the broader vision of building a more integrated and prosperous global economy. The MOU with JETRO represents a crucial step in strengthening the economic ties between Abu Dhabi and Japan."

Mr Nakajima said: "This a significant milestone in enhancing the economic partnership between Japan and the UAE. Japan is committed to expanding its collaboration with the UAE, and this offers an invaluable opportunity to explore new investment avenues and foster mutually beneficial business relationships. As both nations focus on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, we are confident that this event will pave the way for groundbreaking partnerships that will shape the future of both our economies."