Left to right: Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor; HE Frank J.M. Mollen, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Abu Dhabi; HE Robert J.H. de Leeuw, the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Dubai

DUBAI, UAE, Jan 26: Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Chairman of the Al Habtoor Group welcomed His Excellency Frank J. M. Mollen, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Abu Dhabi at his office on Al Wasl Road on Tuesday, Jan 26, 2016. Ambassador Mollen was accompanied during the visit to the Chairman by His Excellency Robert J.H. de Leeuw, the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Dubai. They talked about the economic and political climate in the United Arab Emirates and Al Habtoor said he would like to encourage more Dutch nationals to the country. “The UAE is a land of opportunity. The returns here are excellent. It is one of the safe havens of the world.”

EconomyHE Mollen, who took up his post in Abu Dhabi in September after being based in Berlin, said, “The interests of the Netherlands and the UAE are the same. We are both trading countries that thrive on having a stable political and economy environment.”

In addition, they discussed regional issues including the impact of lower oil prices in the region and the lifting of economic sanctions in Iran. Al Habtoor said, “A lot of countries are seeking benefits in Iran now that sanctions have been lifted, but my position remains unchanged.”

Meanwhile, Consul General Robert J.H. de Leeuw informed Al Habtoor about potential investment opportunities in the hospitality sector in The Netherlands and parts of Austria. Al Habtoor said the Al Habtoor Group has allocated funds for further international expansion. “I am always on the lookout for new markets to enter if the opportunity is right.”