ATHENS, Greece / RankWire.AI / – The UAE has increased its collaborative investment effort with Greece by an additional €15 billion, nearly quadrupling the original plan. The announcement was made on Thursday, October 22, during an official visit to Athens by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. The initial €4 billion initiative was launched in May 2022.
As stated by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, this new investment aims to enhance the long-term economic ties between the two nations. It will broaden cooperation in sectors considered strategic and vital for development. The 2022 program already resulted in notable deals in energy and healthcare. The UAE noted these transactions highlight how joint investments can benefit both economies. No specific timeline has been provided for the new funding.
During his visit, the Crown Prince discussed matters with Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece’s Prime Minister, at his Athens office. Their talks focused on strengthening collaboration in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and innovative technology. They also shared perspectives on regional and global issues. Both leaders emphasized the importance of security, peace, and stability. Earlier, Sheikh Khaled was welcomed at Athens International Airport by Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis.
Forum agreements exceeding €12.75 billion
On the same day, the UAE-Greece Strategic Forum convened officials, entrepreneurs, and chambers of commerce in Athens. Representatives from both countries signed deals and partnerships worth more than €12.75 billion. These cover areas such as digital infrastructure, advanced technology, AI, clean energy, industry, transportation, ports, healthcare, and food security. These agreements complement the €15 billion investment plan. The event also featured sessions to match investors with projects and business meetings.
Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, expressed confidence that these commitments show the strengthening trust between the two nations. He added that the next step is transforming this momentum into concrete projects. Mitsotakis participated in the forum with Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis, while Dimitris Skalkos, chairman of Enterprise Greece, also attended. The event included panels on food security and partnerships in AI and emerging technologies.
The partnership extends beyond mere financial pledges
The UAE’s expansion reflects its trust in Greece’s economic strengths. It highlights Greece’s strategic location as a bridge connecting European and regional markets. Investment entities and companies from both countries are expected to collaborate more closely on key projects. The initiative also promotes innovation and the sharing of expertise in sectors vital for sustainable development.
This move follows other major UAE investments in Europe this year. In September, the UAE supported a €40 billion investment package across Germany. It also increased collaboration with Italy on trade and energy. The UAE described the Greek initiative as a new phase of cooperation built on tangible results and shared future goals. It regarded the expansion as a major milestone in their partnership.