UAE’s non-oil trade with Georgia tops $166m in first half of 2022

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor

The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade with Georgia is seeing an increasing growth, as it exceeded $166m in the first half of 2022, achieving a record growth of 104 percent, compared to the same period in 2021, while non-oil foreign trade between the two countries in 2021 amounted to over $223 million, growing by 52 percent compared to 2020.

The first round of talks to reach a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Georgia were held recently in Tbilisi.

Dr Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, said that the UAE is steadfast in expanding its base of economic partnerships with markets of regional and global strategic importance, in line with its plans to double its non-oil foreign trade to further its efforts to double the national economy to reach Dhs3 trillion by 2030.

Georgia sees huge potential in the UAE tourism market as the   country has become one of the top destinations for UAE since flydubai launched direct flights to Tbilisi. Because of the uniqueness of the country, direct flights (from 2 flights to 14-15 daily flights during summertime) and visa free regime we can see increased numbers of the visitors each year.

This was stated by Gvantsa Murtskhvaladze, Deputy General Manager, Voyager, during an exclusive interview with Gulf Today.

She added that Voyager is a leading tour operator based in Georgia specialised in inbound and outbound travel directions.

The broad portfolio covers the entire tourism value chain under one roof. From traditional tour packages to adventurous free and easy packages, from customized private groups to business incentive trips, we have something for everyone.

Being General Distributor of flydubai, Gulf Air, Jazeera Airways, Flynas and Salam Air on Georgian market, gives us flexibility to serve and exceed expectations of numerous travelers from Gulf Market and not only, and offer various travel destinations throughout the world for travel inspired memories.

“Our company is providing accommodation, transportation, tours, meetings, incentives, conferences, events, private parties, wedding parties to tourists.” She added.

She mentioned that  their major feeders market is GCC countries from where Georgia had more than 140000 visitors in 2022 (+ 35% Change comparing to 2019 and +133% Change comparing to 2021).

“Georgia is a four-season destination, with ancient history, unique architecture, spectacular nature and variety of unique travel products that will excite any type of traveler at every turn.”

Skiing in the mountains while being speechless from the stunning views over the Caucasus, taking a bike ride over the black sea coastline while enjoying the sun with the breeze and the sound of the waves that generates the inner peace, taking a long walk through the stony streets of the city of love - Sighnaghi (kakheti region) after being dazed from the delicate taste of famous Georgian cuisine and bio wine, sightseeing in the old part of the capital – Tbilisi, that combines modern to ancient architecture and feeling the extreme, unforgettable vibes by being adventurous in the wild nature and the waters of Georgia.

“ We are participating in Arabian Travel Market every year. ATM is always delivering new, right business contacts as well as giving us an opportunity to meet existing partners.

As winter is becoming more and more popular in Georgia for GCC, we are looking forward to welcoming guests to our ski resorts,” She concluded.

Maka Katamadze,  Sales & Reservation  Manager at Brosse Garden told Gulf Today that at the moment hotel occupancy growth is around 70%, adding that last year, which was post-pandemic season, occupancy was less, about 45%.

“We evaluate our property as a quite worthy hotel, with a reasonable prices. Last year was much worse for us, because of the pandemic situation in the world with all these limitation, situation did not allowed to open our full potential. But this year showed different outcome, which motivated us for further progress.”

“We have lots of guests from different countries, from both Asia and Europe, but main majority of our guests are from GCC.”

“Our hotel is located in the center of Tbilisi, between metro stations “Rustaveli” and “Freedom Square”, which are comfortably for our guests go to any point of the city. Especially for the guests, who travels on the car, we offer free parking place, which is guarded for 24 hours. At the entrance, you will meet our friendly Reception Staff, who are ready to help you with any questions. This is the new hotel and we are trying our best to provide guest with the best rest and pastime. From our “Terrassa Brosse” opens astonishing view to the city, especially on the river “Mtkvari”.

“In our restaurant you can be enjoyed by delicious food and pleasant music. We offer special prices for our guests, especially for repeat guests and groups,” she concluded.