Dubai: DMCC, the leading international business district that drives the flow of global trade through Dubai, has reported a nearly 10% increase in the number of Italian companies within its district over the past 12 months, bringing the total to over 530 Italian businesses.
According to Emirates News Agency, this announcement coincided with the conclusion of DMCC’s recent Made for Trade Live (MFTL) roadshow, held in the Italian cities of Naples and Palermo. The roadshow aimed to strengthen business connections between Dubai and Southern Italy, attracting over 260 Italian business leaders. These leaders were briefed on Dubai’s position as a hub for global trade and innovation, and DMCC’s pivotal role in facilitating the integration of international companies into global value chains.
Amid a backdrop of increasing UAE-Italy non-oil trade, which exceeded USD 14 billion in 2024 with an annual rise of over 20%, DMCC identifies significant opportunities to further bolster ties across strategic sectors, particularly in agri-food, coffee, precious metals and stones, and energy.
Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, highlighted the growth, stating, “Amid deepening bilateral ties – with UAE-Italy non-oil trade reaching US$14 billion in 2024 – DMCC has seen close to 10% growth in Italian companies over the past 12 months. Our Made For Trade Live roadshows in Naples and Palermo underscore this momentum and the potential for stronger regional trade and investment between Dubai and Southern Italy. The synergies are clear: both regions are strategic continental gateways with world-class ports and logistics, and both are home to globally renowned commodities and industries.”
With over 500 Italian businesses now operating within DMCC, the district reaffirms its commitment to enhancing its value proposition, positioning itself as the primary hub in Dubai for Italian companies to establish, grow, and connect to lucrative global markets. DMCC, hosting nearly 26,000 member companies, contributes significantly to Dubai’s economy, accounting for 15% of the city’s total annual foreign direct investment and 7% of its GDP.