Dubai International Chamber, operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, recently hosted the 2023 Engage Forum, an annual gathering that brought together the chamber’s Board of Directors and Advisory Council members to chart the strategic course for 2024. This event provided a crucial platform for collaborative discussions on enhancing the impact of the chamber’s programs and initiatives, ultimately contributing to the emirate’s business environment and aligning with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
His Excellency Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, emphasized the significance of the Engage Forum in his opening remarks. He highlighted its instrumental role in supporting the international expansion of Dubai-based businesses, attracting foreign direct investment, and strengthening Dubai’s position as a global business hub. Lootah affirmed the chamber’s commitment to advancing trade and investment to fulfill the ambitious objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
The annual meeting showcased the chamber’s accomplishments and initiatives throughout 2023. Notably, it attracted 15 multinational corporations (MNCs) and 77 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to the emirate between January and September. The chamber’s global reach expanded further with the inauguration of 13 new international representative offices, bringing the total to 28 offices worldwide.
Among the topics discussed were strategies to enhance Dubai’s appeal to global investors and talent, solidifying its status as a premier hub for business, trade, and investment. The forum delved into leveraging economic partnerships, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the UAE’s inclusion in the BRICS group, set to take effect in 2024.
Participants explored ways to support the global expansion of businesses from Dubai, address challenges faced by exporters, and expedite the development of the emirate’s manufacturing sector. The meeting included roundtable discussions, fostering collaboration among Board Members, Advisory Council members, and the Dubai International Chamber team to generate innovative initiatives aligning with the chamber’s strategic objectives.
Launched in 2022, the Engage Forum aims to facilitate public-private sector dialogue and elevate the influence of Advisory Council members in shaping the chamber’s agenda and decision-making processes.
Dubai International Chamber, central to consolidating the emirate’s position as a prime destination for foreign direct investment, leads the ‘Dubai Global’ initiative. This initiative is designed to accelerate efforts towards Dubai’s target of increasing non-oil foreign trade from AED 1.4 trillion to AED 2 trillion by 2026. The chamber’s commitment to these objectives reflects its pivotal role in fostering economic growth and sustainability for Dubai on the global stage.
