Strengthening Economic Ties: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Visit to Serbia
On Friday, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), arrived in Belgrade for an important working visit, warmly welcomed by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić at the Nikola Tesla Airport. This visit underscores a significant moment in diplomatic and economic relations between the UAE and Serbia, especially following the implementation of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that took effect earlier this year.
The delegation accompanying President Sheikh Mohamed is comprised of a distinguished group of leaders, including the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and various senior officials and ministers. This high-profile visit signifies the commitment both nations are putting into bolstering their bilateral ties.
The CEPA between the UAE and Serbia, which became operational in May 2025, aims to enhance trade and investment flows between the two countries. The agreement is particularly noteworthy as it eliminates or significantly reduces tariffs on over 95 percent of traded goods. Additionally, it streamlines customs procedures and paves the way for new opportunities in various sectors, including services and investment. This deal also places Serbia in a unique position as it is the first nation in Central and Eastern Europe to formalize such an agreement with the UAE, marking a pivotal step in strengthening economic ties within the region.
Trade between the UAE and Serbia has shown promising growth, with non-oil trade figures reported at approximately USD 57.6 million in 2023, according to official statistics. With the CEPA now fully in effect, both governments are aligning their strategies to accelerate initiatives across vital sectors such as agriculture, food production, renewable energy, logistics, and information technology. These sectors are instrumental in integrating both economies into regional and global value chains.
Historically, the UAE has made substantial investments in Serbia, highlighting its interest in large-scale projects. Notable among these ventures is the Belgrade Waterfront development, a transformational project that aims to revitalize and modernize one of the capital’s key areas. Moreover, the UAE has engaged in partnerships within the aviation sector, further establishing its presence in the region. These investments have been buttressed by government-to-government agreements, which have facilitated collaborative economic development over the past decade.
During his visit, Sheikh Mohamed and President Vučić are scheduled to engage in comprehensive discussions concerning the CEPA’s implementation, assess ongoing collaborative projects, and evaluate potential avenues for future cooperation. The technical teams from both countries are expected to focus on trade facilitation measures, regulatory alignment, and investment frameworks—key components necessary for the smooth execution of the CEPA and for fostering an environment conducive to sustained economic growth.
This working visit also marks Sheikh Mohamed’s second official trip to Serbia since he ascended to the presidency in 2022, reflecting the UAE’s continuous effort to develop strong partnerships in Eastern Europe. The UAE Ministry of Economy has identified the Serbia CEPA as a crucial facet of its broader trade diversification program, which seeks to forge similar agreements with countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The discussions in Belgrade are anticipated to conclude with joint press statements that will detail the progress achieved in bilateral cooperation and highlight additional areas ripe for engagement. Such engagements will not only solidify current economic relationships but also foster an environment where future ventures can thrive, thereby enhancing mutual benefits.
In conclusion, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to Serbia symbolizes a commitment to deepening economic ties between the UAE and Serbia, enhancing trade relations through the CEPA, and setting a foundation for sustainable growth. As both nations look toward the future, their cooperation stands as a testament to the possibilities that can arise from strategic partnerships in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
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