Emirates’ Anita Thomas to address Arab-Irish Business Summit

Ireland’s travel and tourism sector to take centre stage at upcoming Business Summit.

Emirates’ Anita Thomas to address Arab Irish Summit.

Spotlight now on Middle East and Gulf according to business chamber.

It’s not an easy time for Ireland’s exporters right now. However, despite global economic and political turbulence, the Middle East and Gulf is emerging as the region offering some of the greatest opportunities to Irish businesses, with Irish exports up 6% for the first half of 2025 (v H1 2024).

The Arab region imports more than 85% of the goods it needs, €3 billion of which came from Ireland in 2024.  “Arab markets have long looked to the west for product, expertise and skills, and Irish companies and executives are held in high regard,” said Ahmad Younis, CEO of the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce.

“Connectivity is critical for export growth and airlines like Emirates and Etihad are connecting not only people, but tens of tonnes of cargo to markets such as Dubai, Qatar and Saudi Arabia every day,” said Mr Younis.

Businesses are actively seeking out new opportunities and it is against this backdrop that an Arab Irish Business Summit has been announced. The business summit will bring together executives from sectors including travel & tourism, hospitality, food & drink, fintech and pharma who are already doing business or are looking to do business with the Arab markets.

The Arab Irish Business Summit takes place at the Mansion House on September 18. Moderated by Matt Cooper, the event will feature senior Irish executives who will share their unique insights, alongside Arab speakers who will offer their own perspective.

Anita Thomas, country manager for Emirates in Ireland will address delegates as travel, tourism and connectivity take centre stage at the summit. She joins a stellar line up of speakers including Bobby Healy of Manna, and Chanelle McCoy of Dragon’s Den fame.

Hundreds of Irish businesses are expected to attend what is being billed as the most important event for Irish businesses looking beyond the traditional markets of the US and UK for export and trading opportunities.

The event is being jointly organised by the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce, Bord Bia, Department of Foreign Affairs and Enterprise Ireland.  For more information or to register: Arab-Irish Business Summit 2025