Date: Monday, 20 July 2026
Time: Networking from 5:00 PM | Event begins at 6:00 PM
Venue: Xara Lodge
Fee: Free for Members | €47 (inclusive of VAT) for Non-Members


Event Overview

The Malta Business Network is pleased to invite members to the official launch of the MBN Middle East Chapter, marking an important milestone in the Network's continued international growth.

The Middle East has become one of the world's most dynamic regions for trade, investment, aviation, infrastructure, and innovation. Through this new chapter, MBN aims to strengthen business relationships between Malta and the region, creating new opportunities for collaboration, investment, and knowledge exchange.

This event will explore the evolving commercial landscape of the Gulf region, the opportunities available to Maltese businesses looking to expand internationally, and the importance of building long-term business connections across borders.

Join us for an evening of networking and discussion as we celebrate the launch of MBN's newest international chapter.

Speakers

Anthony P. Tabone - CEO, Philip A Tabone Group

Mr. Tabone was the Former Trade Commissioner for Malta in the GCC, Consul General for Malta in Dubai and the Northern Emirates in the UAE, and Former Commissioner General for Malta at EXPO 2020 Dubai.

Today, Mr. Tabone is CEO of the PHILIP A TABONE Group, operating across the construction and advisory sectors throughout the Middle East.

Nikhil Patil - CEO, GO plc

Nikhil Patil is a professional with over 20 years' experience in strategy, operations and mergers & acquisitions across telecoms companies including GO, Cablenet, BMIT and Interoute.

He previously served as Non-Executive Director of GO, spearheading a number of strategic acquisitions that helped diversify the Group's business across Malta and Cyprus. Nikhil also created Malta Properties Company plc., today one of Malta's largest publicly listed real estate companies, serving as CEO until 2018.

He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Mumbai, a Master's degree in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology, an MBA from IMD Switzerland, and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

Paul Fleri Soler - Emirates Airlines Country Manager, Malta

Paul Fleri Soler has worked in the airline industry for over 40 years, including 12 years with Lufthansa and the past 28 years with Emirates. He was responsible for launching Emirates' operations in Malta in 1998, initially with two weekly flights, and has overseen its growth to the current daily service. As Emirates Country Manager for Malta, he leads a team responsible for Operations, SkyCargo, and Finance. Paul holds an Executive MBA, together with several airline and IATA diplomas. He currently serves as President of the Agency Programme Joint Council for both passenger and cargo airlines and is the former President of the Board of Airline Representatives (BAR) and the Airline Operations Committee (AOC). Between 2005 and 2012, he also served as Emirates Country Manager for Cyprus. Throughout his career, he has built extensive expertise in both airline operations and commercial aviation.


We look forward to welcoming you as we celebrate the launch of the Malta Business Network Middle East Chapter and explore the opportunities that lie ahead for Maltese businesses looking to engage with one of the world's fastest-growing regions.


Disclaimers

The opinions shared during the event are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of The Malta Business Network. The Malta Business Network does not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of the information provided.

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