According to data from the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB), Turkmenistan attracts the largest volume of foreign direct investment (FDI) from the United Arab Emirates among Central Asian nations. The country accounts for 65.4% of all UAE investments in the region, totaling $8 billion.

Overall, Central Asia remains a key destination for UAE investments. In 2016, the region accounted for 98% of all investments by Emirati companies in Eurasia, and in the first half of 2024, this figure stood at 96%. Investment projects span sectors such as energy, raw materials, construction, and other industries.

Following Turkmenistan, the largest recipients of UAE investments are Uzbekistan ($2.2 billion, or 17.85% of the total volume) and Kazakhstan ($1.5 billion, or 12.3%).

The rapid development of economic ties between the countries indicates a growing interest from the UAE in collaborating with Central Asian states, including in strategically important sectors.

ORIENT news