Abu Dhabi:Trust is increasingly becoming a key differentiator among investment destinations, according to Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment and Co-Chair of the Investopia Board of Trustees. Speaking at Investopia Bridge 2026, Alsuwaidi emphasized that trust is built on stable policies, protective legislative frameworks, and reliable market access.
According to Emirates News Agency, Alsuwaidi highlighted the UAE's efforts to implement these elements through policies such as allowing 100% foreign ownership, forming Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements, and signing investment cooperation agreements. He noted that domestic direct investment in the UAE is estimated to reach between $100 billion and $119 billion by 2025, significantly surpassing foreign investment inflows.
Alsuwaidi reiterated the UAE's dedication to enhancing trust by developing policies, reducing entry barriers, and expanding global partnerships. He pointed out the UAE's strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and stable policies as competitive advantages in attracting global investment. The UAE's connectivity is highlighted by its 12 commercial ports and extensive airport network.
He also spoke about the National Investment Fund, which supports high-impact investments with an initial capital of AED36.7 billion. This fund, along with unified procedures and updated protection frameworks, aims to reduce market entry costs and expedite the investment process.
Alsuwaidi acknowledged the shift in global investor priorities towards certainty and policy stability. The UAE has positioned itself to meet these demands, with a focus on artificial intelligence and advanced technology sectors as part of its National Investment Strategy 2031. The country leads globally in AI talent growth and has secured significant investments, like Microsoft's $15.2 billion commitment.
Sustainability initiatives such as the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategy provide a long-term framework for investors, particularly benefiting energy-intensive industries. The UAE's infrastructure and clean energy expansion further enhance its appeal as an investment hub.
The Ministry of Investment is also focused on job creation, with greenfield projects in 2025 expected to generate over 65,000 jobs. Alsuwaidi cited the partnership between Space42 and Finland's ICEYE as an example of technological collaboration leading to satellite assembly in Abu Dhabi.
Investopia Bridge 2026, themed 'Investing in a More Resilient World,' reflects the UAE's commitment to global market openness and economic resilience. Since the establishment of the Ministry of Investment in 2023, the UAE has improved its foreign direct investment inflow ranking from 16th in 2022 to ninth in 2025. The country attracted 1,562 new greenfield projects in 2025, with significant investments in automotive manufacturing and communications sectors.