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Cyprus Trade Centre in the GCC region (Dubai) deepens Cyprus and GCC engagement through strategic initiatives in 2025
A year of landmark milestones for the Cyprus Business Council, global exhibitions with national pavilions reinforced Cyprus’s economic, technological and energy ties with the UAE and the wider Gulf
- PUBLISHED: Wed 28 Jan 2026, 3:56 PM
- By:
- Kushmita Bose
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Throughout 2025, the Cyprus Trade Centre in the GCC Region – Dubai (CTC), led and supported a wide spectrum of high-impact engagements across the UAE and the wider Gulf, reinforcing Cyprus’s positioning as a credible and forward-looking partner in trade, technology, energy, manufacturing, digital assets and software and innovation. From council formations and high-level policy cooperation and MoUs to participation in some of the region’s most influential international exhibitions, the year marked a significant step forward in Cyprus–GCC economic diplomacy.
The initiatives beyond the political impact that was reflected at the end of the year with the first ever State Visit of UAE to Cyprus, were aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, supporting the international expansion of Cypriot companies, and showcasing Cyprus’s capabilities across strategic growth sectors.
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Establishment of the Cyprus Business Council (CBC) in Dubai
One of the most significant milestones of 2025 was the formal establishment of the Cyprus Business Council (CBC) in Dubai. Created following months of collaboration between Cypriot individuals and the CTC, the Council was officially established on 26th November 2025 under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers.
The formation of the CBC marked a decisive and institutional milestone in Cyprus–UAE economic relations, translating long-standing bilateral ties into an operational, private-sector-driven platform. The inaugural meeting was convened in Dubai Silicon Oasis with the strategic support of the International Free Zone Authority, enabling the event to be delivered at scale and with strong institutional visibility with the presence of High Level Executives from both Cyprus and UAE. The CBC was formally established by 30 founding members, representing a cross-section of Cypriot and UAE-based businesses, with the Commercial Counsellor of the CTC acting ex officio. Beyond convening the launch, the CTC supported by initiating consultations with stakeholders, organising preparatory and founding meetings, liaising with UAE partner institutions, and steering the full approval process for the Articles of Association with Dubai Chambers. These concrete actions ensured that the CBC was legally constituted, operationally grounded, and positioned from day one as a credible platform for structured dialogue between Cypriots in the Region, trade facilitation and investment cooperation between the two countries.
Participation in Exhibitions with a National or/and an Information Pavilion
In cooperation with the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry (MECI), the CTC organized the participation of the Cyprus with a National or/and an Information Pavilion in major exhibitions in the UAE, as follows:
Gulfood 2025 (19–23 February):
Cyprus participated in Gulfood 2025 with a National Pavilion, in which twenty-five (25) Cypriot companies took part, together with the CTC / MECI.
The significance of participation lies in the fact that Gulfood provides direct access to markets in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, enhancing the outward orientation of Cypriot enterprises and contributing to the creation of new commercial partnerships. During the exhibition, Cypriot companies held business-to-business (B2B) meetings and secured a substantial number of commercial contacts and leads, creating prospects for future agreements and export expansion.
Mobility Elite Summit – Dubai (April 2025):
An information stand was provided to the CTC serving as an information and promotion point for the benefits Cyprus offers for investments.
At the same time, a presentation was delivered by the Commercial Counsellor, during which cooperation prospects, opportunities for business activity and investment opportunities in Cyprus were presented, further enhancing the role and presence of Cyprus in the international business environment and an entry point to Europe.
The Summit brought together senior business executives, sector professionals, investors and representatives from various countries, aiming at knowledge exchange, networking, and highlighting contemporary trends and opportunities in international trade and investment across different countries. Cypriot companies such as Eurofast, MASO Strategic and Cyprus Business Group (CBG) also participated. In cooperation with the organisers, a magazine was also distributed in the local market.
Seamless Middle East 2025 (20–22 May):
The year 2025 marked Cyprus’s first participation, with six Cypriot companies. In parallel, the CTC participated with an information stand, which operated as a point for information and support. Companies participated from various sectors, including cutting edge solutions in Fintech, Reg-Tech Automation, Compliance, Cybersecurity, AI Platforms and more.
World Utilities Congress (WUC) 2025 (27–29 May):
First-time participation with a National Pavilion at the above exhibition in Abu Dhabi (participants included: the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the Cyprus Solar Energy Industrial Association, the Water Development Department, and the CTC/MECI), with the presence of the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment (who participated in a panel), the Permanent Secretary of MECI, the Ambassador, and other senior officials.
Cyprus’s presence at the exhibition, constituted an important initiative, with many leads for further strengthening Cyprus and GCC bilateral relations in the energy and water sectors and was highly appreciated by the organisers.
Gitex Global 2025 (13–17 October):
For the fourth consecutive year, the Republic of Cyprus participated with a National Pavilion at Gitex Global 2025 with 14 Cypriot technology companies, showcasing the range of services, solutions and products offered by Cyprus’s technology ecosystem.
The companies’ fields of activity covered areas such as mixed-reality software, deep tech and AI-based hardware and software solutions, cybersecurity, regulatory compliance (reg for tech), automation (AI-enabled hardware & software), edtech, IT consulting services, as well as hosting services, meteorological monitoring and managed services.
Of particular importance was the networking dinner held on the evening of Tuesday, October 14, on the occasion of Cyprus’s participation in Gitex Global. The event, which hosted more than 100 participants and high-level guests, was organised and executed entirely by the CTC, which assumed full responsibility for planning, coordination and implementation at both organisational and strategic levels. Particular emphasis was placed on the methodical and targeted seating arrangement of guests, following careful review of their professional profiles, maximizing opportunities for meaningful networking.
DOERS SUMMIT (26–27 November):
On the initiative of the CTC, Cyprus participated at Doers Summit with an information stand, as part of a joint presence in cooperation with the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy.
This participation was organised and coordinated by the CTC with the aim of promoting Cyprus and constituted the first tangible cooperation in this area between Cyprus and the UAE at B2G level.
Notable was the high-level political and institutional presence, as the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the UAE, the Chief Scientist, the President of CCCI, and the Director-General of the Research and Innovation Foundation attended, further enhancing the prestige and effectiveness of the Cypriot participation. Multiple meetings and contacts were also held with business and institutional stakeholders from the UAE and abroad. Meetings were also held with the leadership of Dubai Silicon Oasis, where, among other issues, possible cooperation in additional areas was discussed, such as the potential participation of DSO (through its subsidiaries IFZA, DIEZ) in the technology park in Cyprus. The booth was visited by high-level officials, including Ministers and Ambassadors from both Cyprus and the UAE.
Visits and Contacts with Other Gulf Countries
In addition to the various (online) meetings held with the EU delegations in the Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait), a number of visits and meetings were also conducted in the remaining Gulf countries.
Qatar: CTC officers visited Qatar to participate in EU meetings and held meetings, inter alia, with the Qatar Chamber of Commerce. Communication also took place with the Qatari Businessmen Association and the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Qatar, with the objective of networking and exploring possibilities for cooperation at regional level. In parallel, the CTC was registered on the Qatar Chamber’s digital platform, and the joint creation of a digital platform for a B2B marketplace was discussed.
Bahrain: Following a visit that took place in 2024 in Bahrain, further contacts were made with the Ambassador and, in cooperation with the CTC, a meeting was organized with Lulu Bahrain and eleven Cypriot companies on 22/7/2025.
The overall initiative was assessed very positively by those present, as substantive discussions were held and prospects were created for further exports of Cypriot products to Bahrain, as well as to other Gulf countries where the Lulu group is present.
Saudi Arabia: The CTC participated in a mission to Saudi Arabia, during which a series of contacts were held with the main objective of strengthening bilateral relations in the areas of technology, innovation, energy, trade, and investment.
The mission highlighted tangible prospects for further deepening Cyprus–Saudi Arabia cooperation and for advancing specific joint initiatives.
Official state visit of the UAE to Cyprus – Strengthening Cyprus–UAE Bilateral Economic and Strategic Relations, Dec 13–14, 2025
Within the framework of the official visit of the President of the UAE to Cyprus, the CTC significantly supported the role of the UAE Embassy and took an active part both in the meetings and in reception procedures and the organisation of the agenda, as well as forming the final MoU signed between UAE Chamber, Cyprus Chamber and Invest Cyprus. The coordinating role of the CTC and the Embassy will continue, and every effort will be made to coordinate and monitor the joint declaration as well as the action programme announced.
Signing of a memorandum of understanding for the establishment of the Joint Cyprus–UAE Business & Investment Council
In December 2025, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed for the establishment of the Joint Cyprus–UAE Business & Investment Council between the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), Invest Cyprus and the Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce & Industry, under the auspices of Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the UAE, and Michael Damianos, Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Cyprus.
The MoU was signed within the framework of a Cyprus–UAE Business Roundtable, held in Nicosia on December 13, 2025. The objective of the MoU is to institutionalise cooperation, enhance investment promotion, and deepen business networks and ongoing dialogue between the private sectors of the two countries. In parallel, it creates a structured platform for further development of bilateral trade, investment and long-term business partnerships in area such as trade, services, energy, technology, tourism and others. The Chair of the CBC also attended the meeting, and special reference was made of the importance of the establishment of the CBC by the head of the UAE delegation.
Bilateral meetings on the Paphos Marina Port, Larnaca Port, AI Gigafactories, and a Technology Park
The CTC participated actively in the bilateral meetings held within the above framework, concerning the Larnaca port, the old Larnaca airport, the Paphos marina and the expansion of the port at Vasiliko, the creation of a Technology Park in Cyprus, AI data centers, submarine fiber-optic cables, etc, supported the Minister of Transport, Communications and Works and the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy. After the meetings, it was agreed by the Ministers that the CTC, in cooperation with the Embassy, will provide a supportive role and will monitor all developments in the various projects.
Export Helpdesk (EHD)
From the total number of requests received by all CTC’s, the CTC in Dubai gathered 34% of the overall requests, recording the highest demand for support worldwide. This figure also demonstrates the strong interest from Cypriot companies and the role of the UAE as a business and trade hub for the region, as well as the confidence of Cypriot enterprises in the CTC’s ability to effectively support their internationalisation and market penetration in the UAE and the wider Gulf region.
It is noted that all requests have been addressed: details of potential partners (distributors and importers) have been provided, online and in-person business meetings have been arranged, information on potential exhibitions for participation has been sent, and the CTC also offered substantial support on procedural and organizational matters (including the establishment of the CBC), contributing effectively to the promotion of Cypriot business interests.
Other Exhibitions/Events
Green Initiative, EU–GCC: The CTC participates in the platform “EU–GCC Cooperation on Green Transition”, aiming to strengthen the exchange of policies, technologies and financing tools for green growth. Through this cooperation, Cyprus’s geostrategic position and its dual linkage with both the European Union and the GCC countries are leveraged, contributing to the shaping of a common framework for sustainable transition in the region.
Investopia Abu Dhabi 2025 (27–28 May): Participation of the CTC and support to the Minister of MECI and CCCI. Participation in high-level meetings. A decision was taken for the establishment of the CBC.
Investopia Limassol 2025 (10 June): The CTC contributed to the organisation of the event, while also facilitating bilateral government meetings (G2G meetings).
ADIPEC: Active participation of Cyprus in the largest energy exhibition in the Gulf, including the participation of the Minister of Energy in a panel together with the Minister of Egypt. Numerous meetings were arranged and two-day contacts were held with all companies active in Cyprus’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as well as meetings with UAE companies interested in operating in the Cyprus EEZ.
In addition, CTC visited many other exhibitions — most of which included Cypriot companies participation — such as: Intersec, Middle East Energy (Energy and Environment), Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week, GoTech Gas and Oil Technology Showcase & Conference, Getex Spring (Education, Training and Careers), CABSAT Middle East, GISEC, BIG 5, ATM, AIM, 55th Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show, International Property Show (meetings with Sensi Pro, Alma, Horizon), SiGMA (with more than 10 Cypriot companies participating, IFX PRO, World Government Summit (where the MoU for the AI Task Force was signed with the Deputy Minister for Innovation and the Chief Scientist), LEAP in Saudi Arabia, Sharjah Investment Forum, Wetex, etc., for the purposes of supporting, promoting and networking Cypriot companies.
International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
Cyprus has been a member of the above organisation since 2010 and a member of its Council for 2025. CTC represented Cyprus in the work of IRENA in Abu Dhabi, participating actively in both the 29th and 30th Council sessions in the role of Vice-Chair of the Council for the first time.
Within the framework of the 29th IRENA Council, held in Abu Dhabi from 10–12 September 2025, the CTC accompanied and supported the Cypriot delegation, headed by the Permanent Secretary of MECI and the Ambassador of Cyprus to the UAE.
Cyprus, as a vice-chair for both 29th and 30th Council, played an active role in discussions on energy security and grids, renewable energy supply, the promotion of investments in clean energy technologies and institutional matters of the organisation such as procedures concerning IRENA’s Director-General (Ethics and Advisory Committee), a coordinating role to be completed within 2026.
Meetings with Institutional & Strategic Partners
Within the framework of exhibitions and high-level visits, and beyond the meetings held during the official visit to Cyprus, a series of contacts were made during the year with various other entities (governmental, semi-governmental and private) in the Gulf countries.
Mobile Desalination Units – January 2025
Due to the water scarcity problem in Cyprus, the CTC received a request from the Ministry to investigate, as urgently as possible, the provision of desalination units to Cyprus. The CTC undertook the coordination and the relevant technical and administrative support through direct communication with all Ambassadors in GCC Region.
The coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment and the Legal Service, on both technical and procedural matters, was significant to ensure the successful acceptance and conclusion of the agreement, between the Minister of Foreign affairs Dr. Constantinos Kombos and assistant Minister Sultan Al Shamsi, where Cyprus and the UAE concluded a bilateral agreement under which the UAE provides free 14 mobile desalination units, with a total production capacity of 15,000m3 /day, to help Cyprus address a water crisis and strengthen longer‑term water security. The deal is framed as a strategic demonstration of deepening Cyprus–UAE cooperation, with clear humanitarian, technical, and geopolitical dimensions.
In addition, in cooperation with the Embassy, a visit to the installation site of the units was also organised, by the CTC, who supported the mission as the liaison with the UAE technical team (from Palgroup under IHC Group) and the Water Development Department.
The matter received publicity and statements by both UAE leadership and the President of Cyprus, as well as in local media and on social media.
India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
The Commercial Counsellor of the CTC assumed the coordinating role for the CTC’s and the Embassies of Cyprus involved in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Within this framework, and on the initiative of the Commercial Counsellor, a policy document on IMEC was prepared and forwarded to all competent Embassies and CTCs, with the aim of collecting suggestions, data and observations.
The main objective of the document was the systematic mapping of the current situation in the region, with particular emphasis on the energy sector. The document records and analyzes key energy developments, relevant exhibitions, conferences and initiatives taking place, as well as the principal energy and industrial groups active in the region.
In parallel, it includes a comparative mapping of the energy landscape and priorities of the countries participating in or potentially contributing to the implementation of IMEC, with a view to better understanding each country’s capabilities and constraints.
The policy document is updated annually, or earlier if developments so require, so as to remain a timely tool supporting policy-making and inter-state coordination. In addition, on the initiative of the Commercial Counsellor, a communication network was created for the exchange of information among CTCs in Egypt, India and Israel, in close cooperation with the respective Embassies. Through this network, continuous mutual updates are achieved on projects, investments and actions relating to IMEC and broader geopolitical developments, ensuring better coordination.
As a passionate storyteller and content writer, Kushmita Bose loves weaving narratives that inform, inspire, and entertain. Whether she's unraveling tech revolutions, dissecting industry reports, or bringing a brand’s journey to life, Kushmita thrives on transforming ideas into captivating stories. When she’s not busy crafting content, you’ll probably find her daydreaming about her next travel adventure.