Message from HBC Chairman as regional conflict enters fifth week

Dear members and friends of the Hellenic Business Council,

The past month has tested the resilience of our community in ways none of us anticipated. The ongoing regional conflict, including missile and drone strikes on UAE territory, has disrupted daily life, strained commercial operations, and created uncertainty for businesses and families across the Emirates.

First and foremost, the safety of our members and the broader Greek community in the UAE remains our absolute priority. We urge all members to continue following the guidance of UAE authorities, maintain emergency preparedness, and stay in contact with the Embassy of the Hellenic Republic.

Despite these challenges, the fundamentals of the UAE economy remain sound. Prior to the current escalation, GDP growth was projected at approximately 5 percent for 2026, backed by strong non-oil sector expansion and sustained foreign investment inflows. The UAE's diversification away from hydrocarbons provides structural resilience that few economies in the region can match.

We recognise, however, that the immediate impact is real. Flight disruptions, supply chain uncertainty, and cautious investor sentiment are affecting businesses across sectors. Several of our members in maritime, hospitality and trade have reported substantial operational difficulties. We are actively monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with Dubai Chambers to coordinate support where possible.

The Hellenic Business Council was established to serve the Greek business community in times of opportunity, and in times of difficulty. We stand ready to assist our members with guidance, to advocate on their behalf through our institutional partnerships, and to ensure that Greek enterprise in the UAE is positioned for recovery when stability returns.

We remain confident in the long-term trajectory of the UAE and in the strength of the Greece-UAE economic relationship. Our commitment to you is unwavering.

Stay safe. Stay connected.

Thanos Karvelis

Chairman

On behalf of the HBC Board