Over the past decade, the Hungarian government has effectively pursued a policy of Eastern Opening, resulting in a significant increase in investments, primarily from Asia. The Middle East is also becoming increasingly significant for Hungary. Recently, Dubai billionaire Khalaf Al Habtoor granted an interview to the Hungarian private television channel ATV, in which he commended the strategy adopted by the Hungarian government and discussed his forthcoming investments in Hungary.
Khalaf Al Habtoor is the Chairman of the Al Habtoor Group, a conglomerate that began as a small engineering firm in 1970 and has since evolved into one of the region’s largest and most respected enterprises. The group’s diverse interests encompass hospitality, automotive, car leasing, real estate, education, and publishing sectors. Its international properties include The Ritz-Carlton Budapest, InterContinental Budapest, Hilton London Wembley, Hotel Imperial Vienna, President Abraham Lincoln Springfield – A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Hilton Beirut Habtoor Grand, and Hilton Beirut Metropolitan Palace. Additionally, the company serves as the exclusive UAE agent for Ford-owned brands such as Aston Martin, Bentley, and Mitsubishi. According to Forbes, Khalaf Al Habtoor is ranked 335th among the world’s wealthiest individuals, with a net worth of $2.3 billion.
‘It’s always a pleasure for me to come here,’ stated Al Habtoor during the interview with ATV. He expressed that he has visited Hungary frequently and has developed a deep affection for the Hungarian language, Budapest, and its people.
‘The Hungarian government is open to both the East and the West. They do not adopt a political stance, which is commendable’
‘I believe the residents of Hungary, along with the government and its leadership, have accomplished a remarkable job,’ the businessman emphasized. He noted that Budapest has become one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Al Habtoor indicated that he began investing in Hungary because of his profound affection for the country and its people. His future plans include the establishment of an international school, an ‘ultra-modern’ clinic, an entertainment centre, and sports fields, all situated on a vast plot of land located 20 minutes from the capital, in Törökbálint.
‘The Hungarian government is open to both the East and the West. They do not adopt a political stance, which is commendable; it allows them to maintain open and honest relations with everyone and even forge friendships with all,’ stated the Dubai billionaire.
The reporter then asked Al Habtoor about the criticisms directed at the Hungarian government. The businessman replied: ‘I read the news all the time. Here, in your country, I believe the number one priority is the interest of the Hungarian people. I feel the same is true in Dubai. People take care of their homes, and that is always the first consideration. The primary priority is your country, your people, your men and women, your children.’ Regarding Western European countries, he noted their strong history, but remarked that ‘we often disagree. I feel they are sailing into dangerous waters.’
Watch the full interview here:
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