The President of the Republic, Patrick Herminie, has met members of the Seychellois community living in the United Arab Emirates, according to a statement from State House.
The meeting took place on the margins of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, which the President is attending.
The engagement brought together Seychellois who live, work, and study in the UAE. State figures show that about 437 Seychellois currently reside in the country. Many work in aviation, tourism, health, entrepreneurship, and service-related sectors. Some have lived in the UAE for more than 20 years.
During the meeting, President Herminie stressed the importance of maintaining strong links between Seychelles and its diaspora. He noted that Seychellois abroad remain part of the country’s social and economic life. He also recognised the role they play in contributing to the UAE economy, particularly in hospitality, tourism, and aviation.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Barry Faure, also addressed the community. He outlined the role of the newly established Diaspora Division within the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora.
The Ministry is reviewing existing frameworks and reassessing policies, legislation, and regulations. The work aims to support the return and reintegration of Seychellois abroad. It also seeks to strengthen ways for the diaspora to contribute to national development.
The process will be guided by the Inter-Ministerial Diaspora Council. The council will examine issues raised by Seychellois overseas and submit proposals to Cabinet. Community members were encouraged to take part in consultations as the work progresses.
The meeting also acknowledged Seychellois students in the UAE. There are 16 students currently studying in the country. Most are funded by the government. Students welcomed the recent increase in stipends, particularly given the high cost of living in cities such as Dubai.
The event was organised by the Seychelles Embassy in the United Arab Emirates, under the leadership of Ambassador Gervais Moumou.
State House said the engagement reflects the administration’s commitment to structured and sustained dialogue with Seychellois overseas. It said the government aims to ensure that citizens abroad remain connected and supported, while contributing through skills, investment, and knowledge-sharing.