Liliana Victoria Velásquez is a distinguished Peruvian business leader and community advocate based in Dubai, recognized for her pivotal role in fostering connections between Peru and the United Arab Emirates. As the founder of the Peruvian Business Council UAE, Liliana has worked tirelessly to establish a vital platform aimed at bolstering economic, professional, and cultural partnerships across both regions.
Drawing upon her expertise in international trade and business development, she has been instrumental in creating opportunities for Peruvian entrepreneurs, professionals, and companies to thrive in the progressive business landscape of the Gulf. Beyond commercial initiatives, Liliana is committed to encouraging collaboration with key UAE institutions, promoting Peru as a strategic partner in vital sectors including food, infrastructure, and services. Her unwavering dedication centers on building enduring bridges and supporting the growth and integration of the Peruvian community in the UAE. Below, is the interview.
What inspired the creation of the Peruvian Business Council UAE, and what are its main objectives in strengthening Peru–UAE commercial ties?
The creation of the Peruvian Business Council UAE was inspired by the belief that economic partnerships become even more important during challenging times.
Today the region is experiencing a moment of geopolitical tension, with the United Arab Emirates facing direct security challenges as part of the broader conflict between the United States and Iran. In recent weeks the UAE has intercepted hundreds of missiles and drones launched toward the country, demonstrating both the seriousness of the situation and the strength of its defense capabilities.
In this context, the role of international partners becomes critical.
The Council was created to build bridges between Peru and the UAE, strengthening economic collaboration and reinforcing confidence in the country’s position as a global hub for trade, innovation, and investment.
Our message is very clear: the international community and business partners stand with the UAE. By continuing to engage, invest, and collaborate, we contribute to maintaining the stability and economic momentum that has made the country one of the most trusted business environments in the world.
Which sectors or industries do you see as the strongest opportunities for Peruvian companies looking to expand into the UAE and the Gulf region?
Even in times of regional tension, the UAE continues to demonstrate the resilience of its economic model.
One of the most important areas for collaboration is food security, which remains a strategic priority for the UAE. Peru can contribute significantly with high-quality agricultural products, superfoods, and sustainable farming practices.
Another sector is infrastructure and construction, particularly as governments across the Gulf continue investing in rebuilding resilience, logistics networks, and strategic infrastructure that supports regional stability and supply chains.
We also see opportunities in healthcare, logistics, and professional services, areas that become increasingly important in periods when countries focus on strengthening internal systems and economic continuity.
Ultimately, this moment reinforces the importance of trusted international partnerships, and Peru is well positioned to contribute to that ecosystem.
“One of the most important areas for collaboration is food security, which remains a strategic priority for the UAE. Peru can contribute significantly with high-quality agricultural products, superfoods, and sustainable farming practices.”
Sheikh Hamdan and the Chairwoman of the Peruvian Business Council
How does the Council support Peruvian entrepreneurs and professionals in Dubai in terms of networking, market access, and business integration?
In times of uncertainty, community and collaboration become even more important.
The Peruvian Business Council UAE supports entrepreneurs and professionals by creating a network where they can share information, collaborate, and adapt to evolving regional conditions.
We focus on three main pillars:
• Networking and community support, ensuring Peruvians in the UAE remain connected and supported
• Market access guidance, helping businesses navigate regulatory frameworks and identify opportunities even during periods of disruption
• Business resilience, encouraging partnerships that strengthen supply chains and long-term economic integration
The UAE has built a very strong ecosystem for international professionals, and our role is to ensure that Peruvians can continue contributing positively to that ecosystem while supporting the country’s stability and growth.
What role does the Peruvian Business Council UAE play in building partnerships with UAE institutions such as Dubai Chambers and other business councils?
Partnerships with institutions like Dubai Chambers are more important than ever in the current context.
The UAE has long been a model for international cooperation and open economic exchange. During periods of regional tension, these institutional networks help maintain business continuity, investor confidence, and international dialogue.
The role of the Council is to act as a bridge between Peruvian businesses and these institutions, ensuring that collaboration continues and that Peru remains engaged in the UAE’s long-term development strategy.
We also actively engage with other international business councils in Dubai because the strength of this city has always been its global community working together, especially in challenging times.
“The role of the Council is to act as a bridge between Peruvian businesses and these institutions, ensuring that collaboration continues and that Peru remains engaged in the UAE’s long-term development strategy.”
Peruvian Business Council Chairwoman and Ms Maha Al Gargawi is the Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers
What are the Council’s key priorities and upcoming initiatives for the next 12–24 months to boost Peru’s presence in the UAE?
Our priorities for the next two years are closely aligned with the current regional context.
First, we want to reinforce Peru’s commitment to the UAE as a long-term strategic partner, sending a strong signal of confidence in the country’s stability and future.
Second, we will focus on sector-specific collaborations, particularly in food security, logistics, infrastructure, and professional services—areas that strengthen resilience and economic continuity.
Third, we aim to increase Peru’s visibility in the UAE through business forums, trade initiatives, and cultural diplomacy, demonstrating that global collaboration remains essential for regional prosperity.
The UAE has always demonstrated remarkable resilience and visionary leadership in navigating global challenges. As partners, our responsibility is to stand with the country, contribute to its economic strength, and continue building bridges between our nations.
It is clear that under Liliana Victoria Velásquez’s leadership, the Peruvian Business Council UAE is a crucial force in nurturing international partnerships and supporting regional resilience. Her vision for long-term collaboration and community-building offers an inspiring roadmap as both regions seek to grow stronger, together.
Editorial Staff 2025
