Discussions on expanding economic participation and long-term pathways for overseas Filipino workers took center stage on Saturday as First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta Marcos met with Filipino community leaders and representatives of the UAE Business Council in Dubai.
The meeting formed part of the second day of the Bagong Bayani ng Mundo: OFW Serbisyo Caravan (Leg 3), held on January 11, 2026 at the Conrad Hotel, where government officials, community organizations, and private sector partners gathered to align efforts aimed at improving the welfare and prospects of Filipinos working in the United Arab Emirates.
Among the speakers was Marwan Al Marri, Director for the Asian Region of Dubai Chamber International, who underscored Dubai’s current economic standing and its deepening engagement with the Philippines. He shared that groundwork is underway for a 28th cooperation agreement between the Dubai Chamber and the Philippines, with signing expected in the near term and subsequent engagements planned to take place in the Philippines.
Al Marri also pointed to Dubai’s continued global lead in foreign direct investment projects, citing the emirate’s position at the top of worldwide rankings and its role as a center for business expansion and innovation. He urged Filipino leaders and overseas workers to view Dubai not merely as a place of employment but as a platform for acquiring skills, building networks, and accessing wider international opportunities.
According to Al Marri, Dubai currently places third globally in rankings measuring work attractiveness, reinforcing its standing as one of the world’s leading destinations for international talent.
