Guillermo Cobelo, current president of EEC en WATER and Director of Institutional Relations and Global Head of Commercial Affairs at Técnicas Reunidas, brings to FEDECOM extensive global business experience and a strategic vision crucial to strengthening Spain's economic presence internationally.
"This presidency marks a new stage in Spain's international projection, with a presence in key regions such as the Persian Gulf, and reinforces FEDECOM's commitment to a more connected and agile network that serves the interests of Spanish companies abroad," Cobelo said.
FEDECOM brings together 23 Official Chambers of Commerce of Spain abroad., recognized by the Spanish State and dependent on the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Enterprise, with the support of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce. These chambers operate on four continents, playing a fundamental institutional role in the coordination, business support, and strategic visibility of Spanish companies globally.
UAE: A Hub for Global Investment and Innovation
The choice of United Arab Emirates As the new headquarters of the FEDECOM presidency, it underscores the growing geopolitical and economic importance of the Middle East, especially the Gulf region. This area has established itself as an epicenter of investment, innovation, and global strategic alliances.
FEDECOM brings together 23 Official Chambers of Commerce of Spain abroad, recognized by the Spanish State and dependent on the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business, with the support of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce.
The economies of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) They project growth of 4.8% in 2025, driven by diversification strategies, the adoption of artificial intelligence, and energy transition policies. The region is expected to capture more than 10% of global sovereign wealth fund investments, strengthening its influence in international capital markets.
United Arab Emirates, a leader in innovation in the Arab world (Global Innovation Index 2024), has implemented ambitious national programs in AI, clean energy and green hydrogen, with active international cooperation. The participation of Spanish companies This transformation is increasing. From 180 Spanish subsidiaries in the UAE in 2024, the number rose to 222 in 2025. Spain now exports more to the UAE than to Saudi Arabia, Canada or India, with a notable 27% increase in exports from 2023 to 2024, reaching €2.347 billion. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, exports experienced an 80% increase compared to the same period last year.
The Gulf region, with more than 200 Spanish companies in the GCC and robust bilateral trade with the UAE, has become a strategic platform for exports, co-development, technological innovation, and global visibility for Spanish companies.
A Legacy of Excellence and a Young Chamber with Global Reach
The appointment of Guillermo Cobelo comes after the recent and regretted death of Eduardo Barrachina, former president of FEDECOM and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the United Kingdom, whose leadership was characterized by dedication and institutional modernization. “Eduardo was a tireless advocate for Spain's presence in the world and the strength of our network of chambers. From the United Arab Emirates, I humbly assume this responsibility with determination and continuity,” Cobelo added.
The Spanish Business Council in the UAE, under the direction of Guillermo Cobelo, has established itself as a dynamic platform for Spanish-speaking business relations in the Gulf. Despite its youth compared to its European counterparts, it is one of the most recognized chambers in the region. In 2025, the EWC celebrated its 20th anniversary, highlighting two decades of bilateral collaboration and Spain's commitment to the Gulf. It also spearheaded the organization of the largest Spanish National Day celebration in the UAE, bringing together thousands of guests and reinforcing Spain's growing presence in the region.
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