The Arab Media Summit 2026 began on Tuesday in Dubai, bringing together prominent political, media, business, and creative figures from across the Arab world and beyond. This summit, held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is the largest edition in the history of this event with over 175 sessions and more than 400 speakers.
The Economic Outlook of Syria and the Role of Emirati Investors
The President of Syria, Ahmad Al-Shara, in his keynote speech at the summit, examined the economic outlook of Syria and the importance of regional stability, highlighting the growing role of Emirati investors in the country. Al-Shara announced that the value of proposed investments has not yet been disclosed as these projects are still under development.
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He cited DP World's investment in the Port of Tartus as an example of the UAE's ability to identify opportunities in Syria, stating that investment in ports and infrastructure could help revive Syria's position in trade and energy supply chains.
Challenges and Opportunities Facing Syria
The President of Syria emphasized that the country is moving towards becoming an economic and strategic opportunity and described stability as a regional interest. Al-Shara stated, "The stability of Syria today is not only beneficial for Syria but for the entire region. It is a shared interest for all."
He also noted that Syria could support trade corridors to connect markets in West Asia and broader regions, and by reviving infrastructure, it could become a hub for energy supply chains and trade exchange.
Al-Shara pointed to the potential of tourism as one of the drivers of Syria's reconstruction, stating that before the conflicts, Syria was part of regional travel routes connecting visitors from the Gulf to Damascus and other cities in the region. Reviving this sector could attract Arab and international visitors and boost economic activities in Syria and neighboring countries.
Al-Shara also addressed the challenges of rebuilding trust between the Syrian people and government institutions, stating that for this, it is essential to rebuild institutions and restore their relationship with the public. He emphasized that these developments require significant participation from other countries.
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