Indonesia’s Tourism and Creative Economy Minister, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, has extended an invitation to the UAE Entrepreneurship and Educator Team for Economic Zone Development, Family Business Sustainability, and Education Chair, Adil Alzarooni, to invest in eight of the country’s special economic zones (SEZs). These zones, specifically designed for the tourism and creative economy sector, include locations such as Mandalika in Central Lombok, Tanjung Kelayang in Belitung, Likupang in North Minahasa, and several others across Indonesia.
The minister also presented investment opportunities in five super priority destinations, namely Borobudur, Toba Lake, Likupang, Mandalika, and Labuan Bajo. Additionally, investment projects in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) and in regions like Aceh and Bali were also highlighted during the meeting.
This offer comes in response to the significant increase in tourist arrivals from the UAE to Indonesia. Data from 2023 indicates that investment from the UAE in Indonesia’s tourism sector reached $3.1 million, marking a 429 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Minister Uno emphasized the importance of not just attracting investment but also creating a conducive investment ecosystem, particularly with the private sector. He advocates for public-private partnerships (PPP) to expedite development.
The minister expressed his hope that these investments would accelerate development and generate extensive job opportunities. Alzarooni, who has over two decades of experience in various fields including executive management, investment, and economic zone development, welcomed the offer and expressed his eagerness to explore these opportunities in Indonesia.
In summary, Indonesia is actively seeking to bolster its tourism and creative economy sectors through strategic investments in its special economic zones, with a specific emphasis on partnerships with the UAE. The move reflects Indonesia’s broader aim to enhance its economic development and job creation through international collaborations.
