High-profile second edition of “Sri Lanka Beyond Your Dreams” in UAE

The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai successfully concluded the second edition of “Sri Lanka Beyond Your Dreams” at the Hilton Hotel Al Habtoor City, Dubai. The landmark promotional event brought together key international stakeholders to showcase Sri Lanka’s vibrant opportunities across tourism, trade, and strategic investment.

The evening was graced by Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath alongside UAE Foreign Trade Minister Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, who attended as the Guest of Honour.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the United Arab Emirates Arusha Cooray commendably acknowledged and highly appreciated the tireless efforts of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai in organising and executing an event of this magnitude and prestige. 

The presence of both ministers facilitated high-level discussions focused on strengthening economic diplomacy, enhancing bilateral trade frameworks, and exploring new avenues for strategic partnership between Sri Lanka and the UAE. 

Delivering the keynote address Minister Vijitha Herath reaffirmed the centuries-old relationship between Sri Lanka and the Arab region, emphasising the United Arab Emirates’ vital role as a key economic partner in the Middle East.

Highlighting the pivotal role of Sri Lanka’s expatriate workforce in the UAE, the Minister expressed immense pride in their contributions to both economies, reiterating that the welfare and protection of Sri Lankan nationals remain central to the nation’s foreign policy.

Furthermore, the Minister outlined key macroeconomic reforms currently underway in Sri Lanka aimed at restoring long-term financial stability and sustainable economic growth.

Emphasising that Sri Lanka is open and ready for business as a reliable partner for Gulf investments, the Minister underscored the critical importance of finalising a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE. Such an agreement will establish a robust framework to elevate trade, investment, and bilateral economic cooperation to new heights.

Dr. Thani Bin Ahamed Al Zeyoudi gracing the event as Guest of Honour highlighted that logistics and free zones as key investment opportunities for UAE businesses expanding into Sri Lanka.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi underscored Sri Lanka’s position as an emerging regional hub for finance, technology, and manufacturing. He specifically noted expansion opportunities at Trincomalee Port, one of the world’s deepest natural harbours, alongside sector-wide opportunities in technology, tourism, manufacturing, and reconstruction.

“Sri Lanka offers considerable opportunities for our investment community, which continues to seek long-term, high-impact projects in growing economies,” stated Dr. Al Zeyoudi. “From immediate reconstruction needs to the immense potential of its logistics, technology, and tourism sectors, Sri Lanka stands out as one of the most appealing destinations for UAE capital.”

Minister Vijitha Herath and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi reaffirmed their shared commitment to streamlining foreign direct investment channels, expanding commercial ties, and facilitating smoother trade operations across key economic sectors. Ministerial interventions highlighted Sri Lanka’s targeted strategies to attract GCC investments into sustainable tourism infrastructure, renewable energy, and regional trade logistics hubs.

The event was supported by Port City Colombo as Platinum Sponsor of the evening, reflecting its role as one of the country’s main investment propositions to the GCC region. 

Colombo Port City Economic Commission Chairman Harsha Amarasekera, PC addressing attendees, stated: “Port City Colombo is not simply a development project; it is Sri Lanka’s gateway for international investment and a strategic bridge between the GCC and South Asia. At a time when Gulf investors are increasingly seeking diversified, resilient, and globally connected growth platforms, Port City Colombo offers a compelling proposition: a modern Special Economic Zone with an internationally benchmarked regulatory framework, a trusted and neutral business environment, and direct access to one of the world’s fastest-growing regions. For GCC businesses, we see Port City as a complementary extension of their regional operations, enabling capital, enterprise, talent, and innovation to flow seamlessly between the Middle East and South Asia. Through Port City Colombo, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a globally connected investment destination and a long-term partner in the GCC’s economic diversification and international expansion ambitions.”

CHEC Port City Colombo Deputy Managing Director Thulci Aluwihare highlighted the progress of the development, with over $ 2 billion in investments secured to date and a target of exceeding USD 4 billion in the coming years. He also outlined the opportunities available within the SEZ for UAE businesses seeking to invest, establish, or expand their presence in South Asia, spanning real estate development, financial services, regional headquarters, and business continuity operations.

The evening also saw the signing of a investment promotion agreement between Port City Colombo and the Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone Authority, formalising a new institutional partnership between the two special economic zones. 

The MOU was signed by General Manager Johnson Modayil George and Head of Partnership Development Vipul Aggarwal on behalf of the Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone Authority, and by Colombo Port City Economic Commission Director General Revan Wickramasuriya, and Thulci Aluwihare on behalf of Port City Colombo. 

Prominent Sri Lankan exporters, corporate leaders, and industry delegates engaged in direct business-to-business consultations with leading UAE-based investors, bankers, and commercial entities. 

Guests experienced authentic Sri Lankan hospitality, curated cultural presentations, and premium export displays featuring world renowned Ceylon tea from Dilmah, Akbar and Basilur and seven regions tea from Sri Lanka Tea Board, value added cinnamon base products from Sweet Wood Shots SDS Ltd., Emir Lux, Sterling Perfume, Naturalz, Rancrisp Marketing Ltd., and Pinthanna Oud by former Sri Lankan cricketer Kumara Dharmasena. The Trade Display was successfully arranged with the funding assistance under the trade promotion budget of the Department of Commerce of Sri Lanka. 

Beyond formal discussions, the event served as a dynamic platform for business leaders, investors, diplomats, and industry pioneers from across diverse sectors to connect, exchange insights, and forge strategic alliances. 

By facilitating meaningful dialogue across tourism, real estate, hospitality, trade, and finance, the gathering laid a solid foundation for cross-border collaboration; driving long-term economic growth and delivering a lasting positive impact for both Sri Lanka and the UAE.

Adding to the prestige of the diplomatic and business discussions, the event offered attendees an unforgettable sensory journey through Sri Lanka’s rich culture. Guests were treated to an exquisite culinary spread featuring the very best of authentic Sri Lankan gastronomy, paired with world-class entertainment from Mahesh Denipitiya Music Group from Sri Lanka throughout the evening. A centerpiece of the night was an exclusive fashion show showcasing contemporary Sri Lankan designs, clothing bands and gem and jewelry from Budhdhi Batik, G-Flock, Hameedias, LOVI and Garment Services of David Rose and DUSOUL Jewelry by Dhamani for elevating the cultural experience to the next level and leaving a powerful impression on all distinguished guests.

A special segment of the evening was dedicated to honouring the vibrant community of Sri Lankan professionals based in the UAE. The event provided a formal platform to recognise and appreciate their outstanding achievements, expertise, and ongoing contributions to the economic and social development of both their host nation and home country, emphasising their vital role as Sri Lankans in the UAE.

Delivering the closing remarks, the Consul General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, Alexi Gunasekera expressed gratitude for Minister Herath for confidence, encouragement support and unwavering commitment extended towards the Consulate General in making this event a reality. He thanked Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi for honouring the event with his presence as it reflects the importance of the relationship between the UAE and Sri Lanka and ensured continued friendship and support.

He stated that, “Under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Government, Sri Lanka is undergoing a transformation; one built on greater prosperity, modernisation, and inclusive development. Our priorities are clear: to eradicate poverty, to accelerate digitalisation, to build a cleaner and more sustainable Sri Lanka, to create opportunities for our youth, to attract investment, to expand trade, to grow tourism, and to build a modern, competitive economy. A Clean Sri Lanka and a digitalised Sri Lanka are central to this vision. When we combine Sri Lankan determination with international experience, technology, investment, and partnership, I believe Sri Lanka can achieve its aspirations sooner than any of us imagine”. The Consul General highlighted that Sri Lanka is fully open for business, positioning the nation as a trusted, long-term partner for trade, investment, innovation, and tourism.

Highlighting major commercial opportunities, particularly within the flagship Colombo Port City project, the Consul General extended a warm invitation to business leaders and investors to engage with Sri Lanka. “Sri Lanka is ready to welcome you as a strategic partner in business, trade, and tourism. We invite you to invest, collaborate, and actively participate in shaping a transformative future for Sri Lanka beyond your dreams”, stated the Consul General.

The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai extended its sincere appreciation to all diplomatic representatives, Government officials from the UAE, media partners, business delegates for their participation and CHEC Port City Colombo Pvt Ltd., Home Lands Ltd., Tristar, VFS Global, Asia Steel- Sultanate of Oman, EASTMAN Group Printing Press LLC., Siddhalepa, Nail Moda Beauty Lounge and Danube for partnering through corporate sponsorships that ensured the resounding success of this flagship event.