Mauro Marzocchi, founder and longtime Secretary General of the Italian Industry & Commerce Office in the UAE
Our entrepreneur to the cutting-edge entrepreneur
You served as Secretary General of the IICUAE for 21 years, which you co-founded in 2004 together with Piero Ricotti, who served as President twice. What were the key milestones in this long-standing commitment?
To sum up briefly: the launch of projects promoting Italian businesses in Dubai between 1990 and 1996; the opening of showrooms in Sharjah for Italian companies between 1999 and 2003; the establishment of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in 2004, which was officially recognised in 2009; the relocation of its headquarters from Sharjah to Dubai and, in 2023, the opening of a second office in Abu Dhabi.
The achievements you look back on with the greatest pride?
Without a doubt, the Chamber’s official recognition by the Ministry in 2009 and my formal appointment in 2010. Fast-forwarding a few years, I would say the last four years of the Chamber have been the most successful in terms of promotional activities and financial performance, positioning it among the top three Italian Chambers of Commerce abroad, out of 78 operating internationally.
So, would you say that your resignation last December came at the peak of the Chamber’s - and your own - recognition?
It was a carefully considered decision, taken in full harmony with the Chamber’s leadership, to our mutual satisfaction. I believe that stepping down at the height of success is an act of great humility, but also a sign of strategic foresight.
What are the main reasons why an Italian company should establish a presence in the UAE today?
Italy is internationally renowned for its excellence. The key difference between most foreign markets and the UAE lies in the country’s high spending power, which allows Made in Italy products to be truly valued. To stand out in such a dynamic and ever-evolving environment, it is essential to gain in-depth knowledge of the local market, invest in quality and innovation, and provide local operators with impeccable service.
A day in Dubai - where would you take us?
In the morning, a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, and the Museum of the Future. In the afternoon, the Deira souks, a dhow cruise along the Creek, and dinner at one of the luxury restaurants on Jumeirah Beach. To round off the evening, one could opt for a show at Dubai Opera, waterfront strolls along the Marina, or a night out at one of the city’s trendiest nightclubs.
