The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and the Italian development bank Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) have disclosed the establishment of their first strategic partnership, aimed at assisting Italian companies seeking to invest or expand in Abu Dhabi, as well as UAE-based businesses looking for opportunities in Italy.
This strategic collaboration was formalized during a ceremony at the Italy-UAE Business Forum in Rome, which was graced by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and Her Excellency Giorgia Meloni, prime minister of Italy. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), representing ADIO, alongside Giovanni Gorno Tempini, chairman of CDP. This significant event took place during the official state visit to Italy by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Strengthening bilateral ties between Italy and the UAE
This development comes at a time when bilateral relations between the two nations are growing stronger, particularly following the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to the UAE in 2023.
Italy stands as one of the principal trade partners of the UAE, with annual trade exceeding AED30 billion (EUR8 billion). CDP plays a crucial role in supporting Italian businesses by offering a comprehensive range of financial services, which include promoting internationalization processes. Through this agreement, ADIO seeks to link Italian enterprises, including those within CDP’s portfolio, to investment opportunities in Abu Dhabi.
Facilitating UAE businesses’ international expansion
Moreover, the agreement will assist in the international expansion of UAE-based firms by providing streamlined access to business opportunities in Italy. To promote business relationships, ADIO and CDP will organize trade delegations and conduct seminars and discussions aimed at exchanging knowledge and insights on commercial and investment trends, thereby further enhancing cooperation.
His Excellency Badr Al-Olama, director general of ADIO, remarked: “Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for business and investment is reinforced through our partnership with CDP, strengthening economic ties with Italy and creating tangible, long-term value for both nations. ADIO will provide a clear, structured path for Italian enterprises to enter one of the world’s most dynamic economies, as well as empower Abu Dhabi businesses with privileged access to the Italian market, unlocking new avenues for growth and collaboration. Beyond market access, this partnership accelerates investment, drives innovation, and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a gateway for global investors.”
Read more: UAE to invest $40 billion in Italy across key sectors, over 40 new agreements signed
CDP’s focus on international cooperation
In alignment with its 2025-2027 strategy, CDP is set to continue prioritizing international cooperation, specifically focusing on building economic partnerships in emerging markets. The institution plans to invest EUR81 billion over the next three years, aiming for a total investment of EUR170 billion through third-party capital.
Giovanni Gorno Tempini, chairman of CDP, stated: “This partnership with ADIO represents an important step forward in the existing economic ties between Italy and Abu Dhabi. In a rapidly evolving global landscape, Italy and the Gulf countries are forging new and strategic alliances that drive investment, innovation, and sustainable growth. By leveraging CDP’s network of Italian enterprises and ADIO’s expertise in attracting foreign direct investment, we are creating new pathways for businesses to expand, invest, and innovate in both markets, while reinforcing our commitment to fostering sustainable and long-term economic growth through mutual cooperation.”
