Cyprus as a hub for financial and commercial interconnection with the UAE

The changing dynamics shaping a new investment framework between the United Arab Emirates and Mediterranean markets were highlighted by a roundtable discussion entitled "Investment Frontiers: Connecting Markets Across the UAE and Mediterranean", as part of the Investopia Global Mediterranean Forum.

The Mediterranean is emerging as a gateway of strategic importance for capital from the Gulf, and Cyprus can function as a hub for financial and commercial interconnection.

Speakers stressed the importance of geographical proximity, stability and convergence in sectors such as financial services, energy, technology and infrastructure.

The need to adapt national investment attraction strategies to the new requirements of international markets was emphasised, while reference was made to the importance of institutional transparency, tax consistency and the creation of ecosystems that favor innovation.

Particular emphasis was placed on the role of bilateral agreements, as well as the value created through transnational synergies at the business and government policy levels.

The panel included Mohammad Alhawi, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Investment, Stavros Stavrou, Chairman of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), and Andreas Anastasiou, Partner, Strategy and Transactions Services, EY Cyprus.

Alhawi stressed that the UAE has built a fully functional ecosystem for investment and entrepreneurship, based on five pillars.

The first is the business-friendly environment, citing stable and competitive taxation. The second pillar is the proactive regulatory policy: "There are rarely surprises, and when they arise, they are positive," he said.

The third pillar concerns quality of life, with examples such as the golden visa, the healthcare system, and entertainment opportunities in the UAE.

The fourth is the ability to attract talent, and the fifth, the unique connectivity: more than 260 direct flights to international cities.

Stavros Stavrou stated that the CCCI works to ensure that the presence of foreign businesses in Cyprus is as pleasant and supportive as possible, offering continuous assistance.

He stressed that Cyprus is now focusing on targeted investments through a new policy, with full support for companies wishing to invest or operate in the country.

He highlighted the quality of life, education and healthcare as advantages, while also mentioning the cultural proximity to the UAE, which he described as a value to be exploited. He also recalled Cyprus's historical role as a geographical link in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Andreas Anastasiou stressed that Cyprus is emerging as an attractive destination for work and life, thanks to a series of factors such as climate, rich history, political stability, security and quality of life.

All of this facilitates the attraction of executives from international multinationals wishing to operate in the country. He emphasized that Cyprus has a reliable and transparent legal system, based on Anglo-Saxon law, with a business-friendly tax framework.

Finally, he mentioned special investment and tax regimes intended for research and development and other strategic sectors.

The discussion was moderated by Marios Tanousis, CEO of Invest Cyprus.

Event ID:

In partnership with:

Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Republic of Cyprus, Invest Cyprus, Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Main sponsor: Eurobank

Gold Sponsors: Altia, Columbia Group, Finvasia

Silver Sponsors: Athlos Capital, Ecommbx, EY, Perfect Circle Trust, Argyrides & Associates LLC, STI Taxand Cyprus, K.Treppides & Co Ltd

Sponsor: IMR

Organisers: Investopia & IMH