UAE and Georgia Deepen Ties With Record-Breaking Investment and Logistics Plans
On January 26-27, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant milestone in Georgia-UAE relations through high-level meetings and major investment agreements.
During his visit, Kobakhidze met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other high-ranking officials, including Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance, and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports Group. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral trade, investment, logistics, and tourism cooperation. Special attention was given to Georgia's favorable investment climate and ongoing infrastructure projects.
A major highlight was signing a $6 billion investment agreement with Emaar Properties/Eagle Hills at the UAE President's residence. This memorandum, signed by Georgian officials Levan Davitashvili and Tornike Rizhvadze and Emaar's founder Mohamed Ali Rashed Alabbar, represents the largest foreign direct investment in Georgia's history. The project will involve the development of multifunctional infrastructure in Tbilisi and Gonio, aiming to boost economic growth, create jobs, and attract further investment.
Additionally, the Tbilisi Dry Port project, supported by Abu Dhabi Ports Group, was emphasized as a key initiative for enhancing the Middle Corridor, connecting Western Asia and Eastern Europe. This modern logistics hub, set to open in 2025, will integrate Georgia's sea and dry ports, advancing regional connectivity.
Concluding his visit, Kobakhidze expressed gratitude to the UAE for its partnership, emphasizing the transformative potential of the agreements. He invited the UAE President to visit Georgia, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration for mutual economic and strategic benefits.