216 New Filipino Companies Join Dubai Chambers In First Quarter Of 2025

During the first quarter of this year, 216 new Filipino companies became members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. This addition contributes to over 800 new Filipino firms that registered with the chamber in 2024. Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President - International Relations at Dubai Chambers, noted an 18 percent increase in new Filipino companies joining the chamber compared to 2023. This growth highlights ongoing economic collaboration between the two regions.

Al Shamsi shared these insights with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during a trade mission organised by Dubai Chamber of Commerce to Manila from 25th to 27th May. He emphasised that the rise in registered Filipino companies signifies growing trust in Dubai’s business climate and strengthens its status as a global investment hub.

Direct investments from Dubai to the Philippines reached approximately US$193 million between 2021 and 2024. Meanwhile, Filipino investments in Dubai amounted to around US$35 million from 2020 to 2024. These figures underscore the Philippine market's appeal to investors based in Dubai while showcasing Dubai’s capacity to attract Filipino businesses aiming for international growth.

The trade mission is part of the "New Horizons" initiative, which aims to expand overseas markets for Dubai companies. This aligns with efforts by the chamber to enhance Dubai's economic influence in Southeast Asia. Seventeen Emirati companies from sectors like food, agriculture, technology, industrial security, and manufacturing participated in this mission.

The Philippine market is considered strategic for Emirati businesses due to its favourable geographical position, diverse economy, large youthful population, and increasing openness to foreign direct investment. Key sectors include agriculture, logistics, light industry, and information technology.

Al Shamsi highlighted that B2B meetings between Emirati and Filipino companies are crucial for maximising partnership opportunities. These meetings help save time and resources for entrepreneurs while ensuring tangible economic outcomes from such missions.

Gateway to Southeast Asian Markets

The Philippines serves as an essential gateway to Southeast Asian markets. There are significant opportunities for Emirati companies to meet the rising demand for high-quality products and services from Dubai. Al Shamsi reaffirmed Dubai Chambers’ dedication to assisting local businesses in expanding into key global markets.

"We at Dubai Chambers are focused on building sustainable economic bridges with global markets. Trade missions like this one help open effective channels of cooperation and turn opportunities into real partnerships," Al Shamsi stated.

With inputs from WAM