UAE Minister Expects Emaar to Launch Field Operations in Syria Within Months

Ministerial Forecast of Imminent Launch

UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, has announced his expectation that Emaar Properties will begin field-level execution of its projects in Syria within the next two to three months. Speaking in an exclusive interview with CNBC Arabia, Al Zeyoudi indicated that the current phase marks a transition from strategic planning to concrete implementation on the ground.

Scope Extends Beyond Real Estate

Al Zeyoudi clarified that the anticipated strategic plans go well beyond conventional real estate development, encompassing the establishment and development of a number of free zones across Syria. This direction signals a broader UAE ambition to help build an integrated economic ecosystem capable of stimulating trade and attracting further investment into the Syrian market.

Agricultural Sector Feasibility Studies

The minister noted tangible progress in economic feasibility studies related to projects in the agricultural sector, reflecting serious intent to invest in one of Syria's most fundamental economic pillars. No further details regarding the specific nature or geographic scope of these projects were disclosed at this stage.

Investment Opportunities in the Banking Sector

Al Zeyoudi also addressed the evaluation of investment opportunities within the Syrian banking sector, confirming that these assessments are proceeding in parallel with other investment initiatives. A functioning banking sector is widely regarded as a prerequisite for any meaningful economic recovery, providing the financial infrastructure necessary to support rebuilding and development projects.

Bilateral Economic Cooperation Framework

These statements come within the context of growing efforts to strengthen economic cooperation frameworks between the UAE and Syria. Analysts note that the movement of a company of Emaar's scale toward the Syrian market carries significant weight as a signal to other investors monitoring the country's evolving economic landscape.