The Secretary-General of the Union of Arab Chambers, Dr. Khaled Hanafy, confirmed during the discussion session “New Opportunities in the Arab World”, held as part of the Arab–Irish Business Summit 2025 in the capital Dublin on September 18, and in the presence of the Minister of State for European Affairs Niamh Smith, the Minister of State for Trade, Employment and Business Neale Richmond, along with Arab ambassadors accredited to Ireland, Irish ambassadors to Arab countries, senior officials and decision-makers, as well as a select group of businessmen and investors from both sides, that “the Arab region is witnessing strong economic recovery and remarkable diversification, driven by serious economic reforms and an improved investment climate.”
Hanafy explained that the Arab world is home to more than 450 million people, over 60% of whom are under the age of thirty, forming a young, digital, and affluent consumer base that stimulates growth across a wide range of sectors, from construction and engineering to fintech, education, and agri-tech.
He pointed out that Ireland’s political stance, especially its support for Arab causes and its rejection of the genocide in Gaza, strengthens trust and creates a favorable environment for expanding trade and investment cooperation. He said: “As Arabs, we value Ireland’s political stance, and we see that it positively reflects on the business climate and creates a solid foundation for long-term strategic partnerships between both sides.”
The Secretary-General of the Union also highlighted that Arab investments in infrastructure and innovation, alongside Ireland’s expertise in sectors such as agri-tech, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, open promising horizons for fruitful cooperation. He added: “The success of partnerships in Arab markets requires long-term strategies, and today we are witnessing the building of a new economic future based on balanced partnerships with our partners in Ireland.”
On the sidelines of the visit, the Secretary-General participated in the Board of Directors meeting of the Arab–Irish Chamber, where the reality of Arab–Irish relations and ways to develop them in the future across various promising sectors were discussed.
Source (Union of Arab Chambers)
