Latest news with #Italiacamp
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Leo Cisotta on bridging Italian innovation and UAE opportunity
As Italiacamp EMEA celebrates the second anniversary of the Dubai Hub for Made in Italy in 2025, General Manager Leo Cisotta reflects on what has been more than just a growth journey — it has been the shaping of a bridge between two innovation-driven economies. Founded in 2023 within the Dubai World Trade Centre, the Hub was established with a clear objective: to accelerate the internationalisation of Italian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE and wider region. Cisotta emphasised that the model is designed not simply to facilitate internationalisation but to ensure long-term, sustainable integration into one of the world's most competitive and fast-evolving markets. One of the most visible outcomes of this international shift is the Made in Italy Week in the UAE. Held in April 2025 in partnership with the Embassy of Italy in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General of Italy in Dubai, and the Italian Cultural Institute, the multi-day initiative spanned Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. It was more than a showcase of Italian excellence — it was a reflection of a nation in motion. Each day's programming celebrated Made in Italy not only in manufacturing, fashion, and food, but also as a manifestation of research, art, creativity, entrepreneurship, and craftsmanship. Cisotta stresses that partnerships have played a defining role in the Hub's evolution. He cites new collaborations with Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development (Dubai SME) and the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) as examples of how Italiacamp is embedding itself in the UAE's innovation ecosystem. These alliances aim to foster entrepreneurship, facilitate SME growth. 'These are not just institutional alliances but strategic collaborations aligned with the national priorities of the UAE,' he explains. He also points to the importance of focusing on key sectors where Italian excellence is globally recognised — such as technological advancements, artificial intelligence, industrial innovation, fashion, luxury, and sustainability. By enabling Italian companies to bring their identity and know-how into dialogue with the UAE's development goals, the Hub is creating a new framework for cooperation — one where tradition and innovation reinforce each other. Looking ahead, Cisotta remains focused on creating impact beyond the commercial. 'What we're building in the UAE is a strategic platform that leverages Italian excellence and Emirati vision to create long-term, regional value.' For Italiacamp, the UAE represents more than a market. It's a strategic crossroads where economic diplomacy, cultural identity, and innovation intersect. And through the Dubai Hub for Made in Italy, that intersection is becoming a permanent path forward. As the Hub looks ahead to new initiatives and expansion across the Gulf, Cisotta remains focused on anchoring the Made in Italy as a forward-looking driver of regional value. 'Italy's identity lies in innovation, and innovation itself is inherently Italian,' he notes. 'It's a mix of history, creativity, and the new things our country is capable of imagining, creating, and producing every day.' This philosophy—of blending culture, business, and education into a living, adaptive model—is at the heart of Italiacamp's presence in the UAE. According to Cisotta: 'The future of Made in Italy lies in our ability to merge deep-rooted heritage with forward-thinking innovation. Italy's strength is not only in its craftsmanship and cultural legacy, but in its capacity to lead in emerging fields — from digital transformation to advanced manufacturing. By aligning this evolving identity with the UAE's vision, we are shaping a model of collaboration that is resilient and future-ready.'
Web Release
22-04-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Natuzzi Italia Celebrates Italian Craftsmanship at 'Made in Italy Week' in the UAE
By Editor_wr Last updated Apr 21, 2025 Italian design doesn't just furnish homes — it tells stories of heritage, innovation, and soul. As a proud sponsor of 'Made in Italy Week', held across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah from April 14–17, Natuzzi Italia brought its timeless vision of Mediterranean style and craftsmanship to the forefront of a cultural journey celebrating Italian excellence. Part of the broader initiative 'A Journey through Made in Italy', promoted by Italiacamp alongside the Embassy of Italy in the UAE, the Consulate General of Italy in Dubai, and the Italian Cultural Institute in Abu Dhabi, the event united business, art, and design under a common narrative — one that positions Italy not only as a manufacturer of luxury, but as a global standard of creativity and innovation. A Showcase of Heritage and Harmony Natuzzi Italia's presence highlighted the brand's deep-rooted philosophy: to design products that embody the harmony of beauty, functionality, and sustainability. From iconic sofas to sculptural accent pieces, Natuzzi demonstrated how 'Made in Italy' translates into living experiences, not just décor. 'Participating in this initiative was more than a showcase — it was a statement of our identity as storytellers of Italian culture,' said Gayatri Dongre, Chief Operating Officer at Western Furniture . 'We're proud to represent not only the craftsmanship of Italy, but the lifestyle it inspires.' A Week of Celebrations and Synergies Across Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Dubai, 'A Journey through Made in Italy' culminated in a week of significant events. Celebrations on April 15th at the Italian Ambassador's residence in Abu Dhabi focused on Italian identity. April 16th saw discussions on innovation at Sharjah's Research Park and a luxury showcase in Dubai featuring prominent Italian brands. In Dubai, the Lamborghini Showroom served as the venue for an event dedicated to Italian luxury — an opportunity to explore the dynamics of the Emirati market alongside some of the most prominent brands in the sector, including Dolce & Gabbana and Bulgari Resort and Residences. The week concluded on April 17th at the Dubai Hub with the launch of 'Success Stories,' fostering connections among Italian and UAE leaders in culture, business, and innovation. Beyond Design: A Cultural Conversation During the event, from April 15th to 20th, the Consulate General in Dubai promote the Italian Lounge at Art Dubai, the largest contemporary art fair in the Middle East. The lounge showcased works by Italian artists and galleries, echoing the interplay of design, creativity, and technology — core values Natuzzi shares deeply. Next Post UAE Set to Introduce Facial Recognition ID System Comments are closed.
Gulf Today
16-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Italy highlights excellence in Creative Industries in Sharjah
Italy, UAE's second largest supplier among European Union nations, presented glimpses of Italian companies' excellence in Creative Industries and AI at the FUTURE INNOVATORS event held at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park). Speakers addressed several key topics that are driving Italian entrepreneurs and boosting the bilateral trade, including Creative Industries, Artificial Intelligence, Innovation, Sustainability, Fashion, and Design. The programme is part of 'A Journey through Made in Italy', a week-long voyage - from April 14 to 17 - through Italian excellence in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, promoted by Italiacamp along with the Embassy of Italy in the United Arab Emirates, the Consulate General of Italy in Dubai, and the Italian Cultural Institute in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Challenge Network and Triumph MENA part of Triumph Group International Benefit Corporation to celebrate high standards not just in manufacturing, fashion and food, but primarily as an expression of research, art, creativity, enterprise and craftsmanship. In a welcome address, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO, SRTI Park, extolled the standards of Italian companies in creative industries and innovation, and spoke about how SRTI Park is equipped to host entrepreneurs and startups that want to reach new markets in the Middle East, while providing an overview of innovations under development at the region's buzzing technology park. Edoardo Napoli, Consul General of Italy in Dubai, spoke of the booming trade relations between Italy and the UAE, and hailed the role being played by SRTI Park in welcoming and hosting international companies to create world-beating products through innovative technologies. Valerio Soldani, Trade Commissioner of Italy to the UAE at the Italian Trade Agency Dubai, highlighted how ITA's platform of promotional activities and bespoke services to innovative SMEs and startups has been consistently driving the appeal of Made in Italy excellence in R&D intensive solution, resonating with the UAE vision with its cornerstone on cutting-edge tech in many sectors. He shared best practice of Italian companies in advanced manufacturing, water and waste management, supercapacitors, AI applied to healthcare and ITA trade shows in North Star, Wetex and Big5 as a launchpad for Italian and UAE partners to thrive in the market and the region. Nicola Bettio – Director, Innovation & Research Ecosystem at SRTIP, delivered a keynote address on 'Crossing the Chasm' that highlighted steps for driving cooperation between industry, government and academia to produce innovation that makes long-standing economic impact. In another keynote, Prof. Agostino La Bella – Full Professor, University of Rome Tor Vergata and Co-Founder, spoke on 'Hype to Impact: Strategic Pathways for the Next AI Wave.' Other topics covered at the event were: Innovation & Sustainability Across Industries; Future of Creative Industries: Innovation, AI & Emerging Trends; Role of education in driving innovation in fashion, design, and the creative Industries; Gaming & Interactive Media -- Future of Creative Industries; AI in the Land of Creativity: AI's Journey Through the Infinite Horizons of Creativity; and AI for the new era of profiling and brand enhancement. 'A Journey through Made in Italy' is part of the celebrations for the National Day of Made in Italy, promoted by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to enhance Italian excellence globally on the anniversary of Leonardo Da Vinci's birth on April 15th. Trade relations between the UAE and Italy has been growing impressively. At the end of 2024 Italy exports to the UAE achieved a all-time record high value of 7.8 billion euros with a +19.4% year-over-year increase, doubling the acceleration pace of the previous year, further establishing the UAE as the first MENA destination and a focus market for the Italian companies, which are investing in a consistent business development and direct presence to better serve the extended region and dive into the market opportunities sparked by the UAE CEPAs (comprehensive economic partnership agreements).
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Italy highlights excellence in creative industries at ‘Made in Italy' event hosted by Sharjah Innovation Park 'SRTIP'
SHARJAH, UAE: Italy, UAE's second largest supplier among European Union nations, presented glimpses of Italian companies' excellence in Creative Industries and AI at the FUTURE INNOVATORS event held at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park). Speakers addressed several key topics that are driving Italian entrepreneurs and boosting the bilateral trade, including Creative Industries, Artificial Intelligence, Innovation, Sustainability, Fashion, and Design. The program is part of 'A Journey through Made in Italy', a week-long voyage - from April 14 to 17 - through Italian excellence in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, promoted by Italiacamp along with the Embassy of Italy in the United Arab Emirates, the Consulate General of Italy in Dubai, and the Italian Cultural Institute in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Challenge Network and Triumph MENA part of Triumph Group International Benefit Corporation to celebrate high standards not just in manufacturing, fashion and food, but primarily as an expression of research, art, creativity, enterprise and craftsmanship. In a welcome address, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO, SRTI Park, extolled the standards of Italian companies in creative industries and innovation, and spoke about how SRTI Park is equipped to host entrepreneurs and startups that want to reach new markets in the Middle East, while providing an overview of innovations under development at the region's buzzing technology park. Edoardo Napoli, Consul General of Italy in Dubai, spoke of the booming trade relations between Italy and the UAE, and hailed the role being played by SRTI Park in welcoming and hosting international companies to create world-beating products through innovative technologies. Valerio Soldani, Trade Commissioner of Italy to the UAE at the Italian Trade Agency Dubai, highlighted how ITA's platform of promotional activities and bespoke services to innovative SMEs and startups has been consistently driving the appeal of Made in Italy excellence in R&D intensive solution, resonating with the UAE vision with its cornerstone on cutting-edge tech in many sectors. He shared best practice of Italian companies in advanced manufacturing, water and waste management, supercapacitors, AI applied to healthcare and ITA trade shows in North Star, Wetex and Big5 as a launchpad for Italian and UAE partners to thrive in the market and the region. Nicola Bettio – Director, Innovation & Research Ecosystem at SRTIP, delivered a keynote address on 'Crossing the Chasm' that highlighted steps for driving cooperation between industry, government and academia to produce innovation that makes long-standing economic impact. In another keynote, Prof. Agostino La Bella – Full Professor, University of Rome Tor Vergata and Co-Founder, spoke on 'Hype to Impact: Strategic Pathways for the Next AI Wave.' Other topics covered at the event were: Innovation & Sustainability Across Industries; Future of Creative Industries: Innovation, AI & Emerging Trends; Role of education in driving innovation in fashion, design, and the creative Industries; Gaming & Interactive Media -- Future of Creative Industries; AI in the Land of Creativity: AI's Journey Through the Infinite Horizons of Creativity; and AI for the new era of profiling and brand enhancement. 'A Journey through Made in Italy' is part of the celebrations for the National Day of Made in Italy, promoted by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to enhance Italian excellence globally on the anniversary of Leonardo Da Vinci's birth on April 15th. Trade relations between the UAE and Italy has been growing impressively. At the end of 2024 Italy exports to the UAE achieved a all-time record high value of 7.8 billion Euros with a +19.4% year-over-year increase, doubling the acceleration pace of the previous year, further establishing the UAE as the first MENA destination and a focus market for the Italian companies, which are investing in a consistent business development and direct presence to better serve the extended region and dive into the market opportunities sparked by the UAE CEPAs (comprehensive economic partnership agreements).
