In what marks a major milestone for Croatian–Emirati relations, Mr. Neven Roginić, President of the UAE-Croatia Business Club and initiator of the Croatian Council under Dubai Chambers, had the honour of meeting with H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy of the United Arab Emirates. The meeting took place in the private majlis of the Abu Dhabi Pavilion at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) — the region’s leading global travel and tourism trade show held in Dubai.
This high-level meeting is a recognition of the growing bilateral economic interest between Croatia and the United Arab Emirates and the increasing visibility of the initiatives led by the UAE-Croatia Business Club.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
During the meeting, Mr. Roginić presented a comprehensive overview of the Club’s mission, current activities, and ongoing efforts to promote Croatian business and investment opportunities in the UAE. He also introduced the process of establishing the Croatian Council under the framework of Dubai Chambers, an institutional platform designed to support Croatian entrepreneurs and businesses as they expand into the Emirati market.
H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri expressed strong interest in the initiative and affirmed the Ministry’s readiness to support activities that strengthen economic exchange between the two countries. He also welcomed the idea of participating in some of the Club’s future events and initiatives, further underlining the significance of this bilateral engagement.
Emirati Delegation to Visit Croatia
A key point of discussion was the organisation of a high-level Emirati business delegation to Croatia, coordinated with the support of the Croatian Chamber of Economy, the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The visit would serve as a platform for presenting Croatia’s strategic investment sectors — from tourism and infrastructure to renewable energy and technology.
The Emirati side acknowledged Croatia’s position as a strategic gateway to the European Union and expressed enthusiasm about exploring partnerships and cross-border investments in both directions.
UAE Embassy Support & Vision
Mr. Roginić also took the opportunity to highlight the vital role of H.E. Ahmed Alattar, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Croatia, whose continuous support and engagement through the Embassy in Berlin have been instrumental in advancing UAE-Croatia economic diplomacy.
H.E. Al Marri praised the collaborative efforts and reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to deepening cooperation with EU member states such as Croatia, especially in the context of global diversification, economic resilience, and innovation-led growth.
About the UAE Economy & Minister’s Role
The United Arab Emirates is one of the most diversified and dynamic economies in the world, with a GDP exceeding $500 billion USD and a strategic position as a global hub for trade, logistics, finance, and innovation. The country ranks among the top globally for ease of doing business, digital infrastructure, and openness to foreign investment.
As Minister of Economy, H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri plays a central role in shaping the UAE’s economic policies, implementing national growth strategies such as “Projects of the 50,” and overseeing key sectors such as tourism, SMEs, intellectual property, and foreign trade. His leadership has been pivotal in reinforcing the UAE’s vision for a diversified, knowledge-based economy.
A Historic Step Forward
The meeting between H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri and Mr. Neven Roginić represents the most significant high-level engagement for the UAE-Croatia Business Club to date and reflects the momentum building between the two nations.
“This meeting is a great honour and an even greater responsibility. We are confident that through mutual support, institutional cooperation, and shared vision, we will elevate the Croatia–UAE economic relationship to new heights,” said Mr. Roginić.
With ongoing support from Emirati institutions, Croatian ministries, and regional partners, the UAE-Croatia Business Club continues to emerge as a key facilitator of international cooperation, investment promotion, and cross-cultural economic dialogue.
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