Emirati businessman Halaf Ahmet Al Habtoor announced that he will not form partnerships with other parties, including government institutions, for investment projects inside Syria. However, he said he is ready to work with Syrians when the right conditions are met.
Al Habtoor mentioned that they previously entered the Syrian market through the automotive sector and established several showrooms in the country. He did not provide details about which parties had sought partnerships with him.
In a statement made just hours ago, the businessman said they are closely monitoring developments in Syria and are waiting for opportunities that align with the group's vision and goals and that will add real value to the Syrian economy. He emphasized their readiness to contribute to the Syrian people.
Explaining His Preference to Work Alone
Al Habtoor explained that throughout his business career, he has not favored partnerships, as it is his personal working style. He said that early in his career, partnerships with friends and close associates did not succeed and that he lost significant money during that period.
For this reason, he preferred to establish and manage projects on his own, which he believes suits his character, goals, and decision-making style better. He argued that this approach contributed to his success and continuity over the years.
Al Habtoor also stated that his remarks should not be interpreted as an attitude against Syria or the Syrian people. He expressed great respect for Syria and its people and noted that his group already has a presence in the country through the automotive sector and service centers.
Previous Steps Toward Syria
On October 25, the Syrian Ministry of Education announced that Al Habtoor provided 100,000 wooden desks for schools across the country. The ministry explained that this step aims to support the education process and strengthen humanitarian cooperation between Syria and the United Arab Emirates.
Education Minister Muhammad Abdul Rahman Turko thanked the initiative, saying it reflects the brotherly ties between the peoples of Syria and the Emirates. Turko noted that the donation contributes to improving the school environment and meeting the educational needs, especially in regions requiring support.
Al Habtoor also stated in September 2025 that he plans to invest in a project to operate up to 3,000 buses in partnership with the state in Syria. He said this project would create job opportunities for about 30,000 people.
Having toured potential investment areas in Damascus and the coastal region, Al Habtoor said he wants to focus on initiatives that will revive the war-torn economy and generate sustainable opportunities. He described his long-term investment approach by saying, "We want to invest in something that serves people; we do not just want to build buildings."
Position of Al Habtoor Group
Halaf Ahmet Al Habtoor is known as one of the leading businessmen in the United Arab Emirates and the founder and chairman of the Al Habtoor Group. The group operates in sectors such as hospitality, real estate, automotive, education, and publishing.
Al Habtoor began his business career working for a local construction company before founding his own company in 1970. Over time, the company expanded into a large business empire.
The businessman also chairs the board of Dubai National Insurance and Reinsurance Company. He has previously held positions such as membership in the Federal National Council and chairman of Dubai Commercial Bank.
