Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, organised the Abu Dhabi-Serbia Business Forum to reinforce Abu Dhabi's position as a regional business hub and expand its global economic partnerships. The forum welcomed a Serbian economic delegation comprising more than 30 companies operating across key sectors, alongside officials and representatives from government entities and private enterprises from both countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, discussions focused on enhancing trade and investment relations, identifying opportunities for cooperation in priority sectors, and strengthening economic ties between Abu Dhabi and Serbia. The forum also explored new avenues for future partnerships, supporting joint efforts to drive sustainable growth and mutual economic development.
Held against a backdrop of rapidly expanding bilateral trade, the forum reflected the growing momentum in economic relations between the UAE and Serbia. Non-oil trade between the two countries reached approximately US$98 million in 2024. Non-oil trade in the first quarter of 2025 amounted to around US$23.6 million. The UAE is Serbia's second leading trading partner among GCC countries, accounting for nearly 43 percent of Serbia's total trade with the Gulf based on 2024 figures.
Ali Mohamed Al Marzooqi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, remarked that the forum highlights the commitment of both sides to developing strategic partnerships in the fields of industry, energy, technology, and food security. These efforts aim to advance sustainable development and strengthen trade and investment between the two economies. He emphasised that the partnership represents a new phase of trade and investment cooperation, reaffirming the Chamber's dedication to supporting the business community and enabling it to explore promising international markets.
Mihailo Vesovic, Vice President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that economic relations between Abu Dhabi and Serbia are entering a new phase with the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which is expected to double bilateral trade in the coming years. He stated that Serbia is a strategic gateway to emerging European markets and considers Abu Dhabi a long-term investment partner in sectors such as agriculture, industry, renewable energy, and innovation.
Abu Dhabi continues to distinguish itself with a diversified and resilient economy, supported by flexible policies, business-friendly legislation, and world-class infrastructure. Its strategic geographic position connects Asia, Europe, and Africa, solidifying its role as a leading regional hub for trade and logistics. The emirate is also implementing ambitious strategies to accelerate the growth of non-oil sectors, foster innovation, and attract high-value investments.
In June 2025, the UAE-Serbia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement entered into effect, focusing on facilitating the exchange of goods and services and supporting the transition toward a more diversified and sustainable economy.