Sri Lanka and UAE strengthen trade and tourism ties

bilateral trade tourism cooperation foreign investment economic partnership hospitality sector

Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates are working to deepen economic ties, with bilateral trade between the two nations reaching $1.7 billion. Officials from both countries are focusing on expanding tourism and investment partnerships to drive sustainable economic growth.

During a meeting in Dubai, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri and Sri Lankan Minister Vijitha Herath discussed enhancing cooperation in the hospitality sector, facilitating tourist flows, and exchanging expertise. The UAE is a significant market for Sri Lankan tourism; data indicates the UAE received over 43,333 Sri Lankan visitors in the first five months of 2026, while 153,430 visitors traveled from Sri Lanka to the UAE in 2025. Connectivity is supported by 107 direct flights per week.

Beyond tourism, Sri Lanka is seeking UAE investment in sectors such as port development, renewable energy, real estate, and logistics. The island nation aims to leverage its strategic location in the Indian Ocean to attract Gulf-based capital as part of its post-economic crisis recovery strategy.

Entities

Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri · Vijitha Herath

Sources

Sri Lanka Courts UAE Tourists and Investors as Bilateral Trade Hits $1. 7 Billion [www.lankanewspapers.com]

7 days ago

UAE and Sri Lanka Boost Tourism and Hospitality Cooperation to Drive Sustainable Economic Growth [gulfnews.com]

8 days ago