A high-level UAE delegation, led by Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdullah bin Tawq Al Marri, has taken a significant presence at VivaTech 2026 in Paris. The move aims to connect the nation’s top startups with international investors and partners, solidifying the UAE’s position as a global hub for new economy sectors. The Ministry of Economy and Tourism is participating for the third consecutive year, underscoring its strategy to boost the international expansion of Emirati ventures.
Quick Facts
- Delegation included over 20 ecosystem enablers.
- Ten Emirati startups showcased their tech solutions.
- Focus on AI, fintech, foodtech, and sustainable infrastructure.
Showcasing a Diverse Tech Ecosystem
The UAE pavilion at the Paris event, which ran from June 17 to 20, featured a curated group of companies and ecosystem builders. Prominent entities like Abu Dhabi’s Hub71, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zones Authority (Rakez), and the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) were present, alongside the Emirates Entrepreneurship Association and Masdar City.
The ten participating startups represented a cross-section of the UAE’s innovation landscape. Their offerings ranged from digital platforms connecting startups with investors to AI-powered point-of-sale systems for retail. Other solutions included smart banking personalization tools, integrated platforms for digital food supply chains, and advanced agritech, such as innovative irrigation systems that operate without electricity.
Forging International Economic Ties
The delegation’s mission extended beyond the exhibition floor. In a key panel discussion titled “The New Growth Manual,” Minister Abdullah bin Tawq Al Marri shared the UAE’s vision for building a flexible, competitive economic model centered on innovation and technology. He was joined by Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, and Bruno Le Maire, former French Minister of the Economy.
“The UAE’s participation in the exhibition is an opportunity to enhance the presence of Emirati companies in the global technology market and open new channels for cooperation with investors, technology institutions, and innovation pioneers,” stated Al Marri. He emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to enabling entrepreneurs to explore expansion opportunities and build partnerships that support the goals of the “We the UAE 2031” vision.
In collaboration with the UAE Embassy in France, the delegation also hosted an economic event on the sidelines of VivaTech. The initiative was designed to directly connect Emirati startups with French and international investors, facilitating dialogue and exploring potential partnerships.
About VivaTech
VivaTech is one of the world’s largest events dedicated to technology and startups. Launched in 2016, its tenth edition attracted approximately 180,000 visitors, over 14,000 startups, and 3,600 investors from more than 40 countries, serving as a major platform for global tech leaders, investors, and policymakers.
Source: Voice of Emirates
