From October 13 to 18, the Vietnamese business delegation carried out a trade connection and market survey mission in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), focusing on Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The trip was part of an international trade promotion program jointly organized by the Asia-Pacific Economic Development Research Institute (a unit under IMCE Global), the Industrial Development Center (IDC) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Vietnam Consultant Network (VCN). The program aimed to strengthen cooperation between Vietnamese enterprises and Middle Eastern partners, opening up opportunities in investment, trade, real estate, finance, and international brand development.
Why was the UAE chosen as a strategic destination?
According to Mr. Truong Xuan Trung, Head of the Vietnam Trade Office in the UAE, the country’s strategic geographic location, modern logistics infrastructure, investor-friendly environment, and favorable tax policies make it one of the most attractive free trade hubs in the world.
For many years, the UAE has remained among Vietnam’s top 10 trading partners in the Middle East and Africa. The country currently has 55 free zones and two financial free zones—Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)—offering incentives such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemption, free capital transfer, and advanced infrastructure.
Moreover, the growing Vietnamese business community in the UAE serves as a vital bridge, helping Vietnamese products reach regional and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets.
Working with the Vietnamese Embassy in the UAE – Strategic Orientation and Connection
On the first working day, the delegation visited the Vietnamese Embassy in Dubai and was warmly welcomed by Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Diep.
The Ambassador emphasized the UAE’s importance as a global hub for logistics, investment, and services, encouraging Vietnamese enterprises to establish representative offices or distribution centers in Dubai to expand exports to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
Under the guidance of delegation leader Mr. Nguyen Hoang Phuong, the enterprises shared about their business sectors, exchanged practical questions, and received valuable insights from the Ambassador regarding trade policies, legal support, and opportunities for partnership with local entities—helping Vietnamese companies better understand their roadmap to penetrate the UAE market.
Visit to DAMAC Group – A Vibrant Picture of Dubai’s Real Estate Market
The next day, the delegation visited and worked with DAMAC Properties, one of Dubai’s leading real estate corporations. Mr. Raymon Chin, Vice President of Sales, shared insights into the company’s integrated urban development model, strategies for attracting international investors, and asset management trends in the digital era. Landmark projects such as Damac Hills, Golf Greens, Golf Gate, and Damac Lagoons were introduced as symbols of luxury, sustainability, and green living.
Vietnamese enterprises also expressed interest in commercial and residential real estate investment opportunities, including short-term office leasing and long-term asset accumulation for future generations—marking an initial step toward the diversification of Vietnamese overseas investments.
Meeting with Vietnamese Entrepreneurs in Dubai – Learning from the Pioneers
In Dubai, the delegation met with Ms. Mina Tran, a seasoned Vietnamese entrepreneur who has worked in Dubai for many years. She shared her inspiring entrepreneurial journey—her successes and failures, and how she overcame cultural and business environment challenges in the Middle East.
Her practical experiences provided powerful motivation for the delegation, highlighting the courage, adaptability, and global competitiveness of Vietnamese professionals.
Working with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI)
The meeting with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) played an important role in laying the foundation for bilateral business cooperation.
Guided by Mr. Truong Xuan Trung, Head of the Vietnam Trade Office, the delegation held a productive discussion with Dr. Fatema Khalifar, representative of SCCI, and received valuable information about investment attraction, logistics, and export-oriented industries, particularly in the free zones.
Both sides agreed to coordinate in organizing trade promotion events and sharing investment policies to foster future collaboration.
Visit to West Zone Group – A New Gateway for Vietnamese Goods
The delegation continued its journey to West Zone Group, one of Dubai’s largest and most dynamic supermarket chains with more than 150 outlets.
At the meeting, Vietnamese companies were introduced to import standards, required certifications, and potential pathways for Vietnamese goods—especially food, spices, and FMCG products—to enter and compete in the UAE retail market. This visit opened the door for cooperation under the strategic direction of “Vietnamese Products in Global Retail Systems.”
Working with Emirates Development Bank (EDB)
On the final working day, the delegation visited Emirates Development Bank (EDB), where they were briefed on enterprise support policies, innovation funding, and the bank’s digital transformation model.
EDB affirmed its readiness to support Vietnamese enterprises investing in the UAE through flexible financial packages and by facilitating access to the country’s financial ecosystem.
Cultural Experiences – A Journey of Emotion and Discovery
Alongside business activities, the delegation enjoyed cultural experiences to better understand Middle Eastern heritage and spirit. Key destinations included:
– Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – one of the most magnificent mosques in the world
– Emirates Palace – a symbol of luxury and sophistication, where the delegation enjoyed the famous gold coffee
– Yas Island, Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Al Fahidi Historical District, Gold Souk, and Spice Souk – blending tradition and modernity
– Desert Safari – an authentic adventure through Arabian nature and spirit
These moments not only left lasting impressions but also strengthened the camaraderie and unity among delegation members.
Initial Achievements
The mission to the UAE achieved significant outcomes:
– Established official cooperation with the Vietnamese Embassy, SCCI, DAMAC, West Zone, and EDB
– Identified potential investment projects in Dubai, including company formation and market expansion plans
– Discovered concrete trade opportunities for Vietnamese goods in UAE supermarket chains and neighboring markets
– Enhanced the image and credibility of Vietnamese enterprises, affirming their global mindset and competitiveness
– Built a supportive Vietnamese business community for long-term collaboration and growth
The UAE business mission was not merely a market exploration trip—it was a strategic step forward in bringing Vietnamese brands, intellect, and spirit to the world. The outcomes demonstrate Vietnam’s proactive integration, cooperative spirit, and global ambition in a new era.
