UAE eyes investment in Bangladesh's cybersecurity, ICT and emerging sectors

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed strong interest in expanding investment in Bangladesh's cybersecurity, information and communication technology (ICT), and other emerging sectors.

The interest came during a bilateral meeting between Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and the UAE Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdulla Ali Khaseif AlHmoudi at the Bangladesh Secretariat today (23 May).

According to a ministry press release, the meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere and focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, security, skilled manpower export, and legal assistance.

During the discussion, Ambassador AlHmoudi said several leading UAE companies are keen to invest in Bangladesh, particularly in cybersecurity, ICT, and various prospective and emerging sectors. 

He expressed optimism that enhanced economic cooperation would elevate bilateral relations to a new level.

Welcoming the UAE's investment interest, Salahuddin Ahmed said Bangladesh is fully prepared to provide all necessary support and cooperation to facilitate Emirati investments in these sectors.

The minister noted that Bangladesh is working to expand its digital infrastructure and technological capabilities, creating significant opportunities for foreign investors in innovation-driven industries.

The meeting discussed broader collaboration between the two countries, including manpower export, human trafficking prevention, and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters.

It also placed significant emphasis on the export of skilled Bangladeshi manpower, particularly professional drivers and gardeners, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The ambassador said there is a growing demand in the UAE for trained and skilled drivers, adding that the Emirati government requires foreign drivers to complete a six-month specialised training programme in line with the country's standards and regulations.

In response, the home minister assured the UAE of Bangladesh's full cooperation in supplying skilled manpower. 

He proposed that the two countries jointly introduce internationally standardised six-month driver training courses in Bangladesh to prepare workers for overseas employment.

He also stressed the importance of introducing a unified driver training programme for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, saying the proposal would be forwarded to the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment for further action.

Officials said the initiative could create new employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers abroad and help to meet the UAE's increasing demand for skilled manpower.

Senior officials from the home ministry were present during the meeting.