AD consolidates its position as a preferred destination for events

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADDCI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

The MoU aims to enhance cooperation and joint coordination between the two parties to consolidate the standing of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi as a global destination and a prestigious hub for hosting local, regional, and international business and investment events.

The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Business Events Forum in the presence of Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, and Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, along with a number of representatives from both sides.

The MoU supports the two parties’ mutual strategic objectives for strengthening the leading position of Abu Dhabi as a preferred destination for hosting international events, and a key hub for supporting, developing, and growing businesses in vital sectors. Under the terms of the MoU, the two parties will also coordinate closely to highlight various events and conferences and exchange knowledge and expertise to drive business events growth.

Al Qubaisi said, “The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been successful in establishing its leading position on the global business tourism landscape. The Emirate has attracted and hosted prominent business events, which culminated in its recognition as the Middle East’s leading destination for association meetings conferred by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) 2022’s ranking.”

“This success comes as the result of the efforts of various parties in the public and private sectors, particularly the efforts of our partners at the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, who aim to consolidate the Emirate’s position as a leading global destination that has the main assets for hosting prestigious business events.”

Al Qubaisi added, “The signing of the MoU aligns with the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s efforts to partner with local and federal entities to foster strong investment and commercial relations. We are also committed to supporting various business events, forums, and conferences in the Emirate. This reflects the Chamber’s recognition of the importance of the business tourism sector and global events in enhancing networking opportunities between business communities and investors, building fruitful partnerships and cooperation agreements, and driving sustainable development.”

Meanwhile the Ministry of Finance convened with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Younis Haji Al Khoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, and Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, attended the meeting to cooperate in creating a conducive environment for businesses, which enhances governmental work and is in line with the UAE’s directions and strategies.

Ahmed Bin Sulaiman, Director of Public Debt Management Office, Azza Al Jasmi, Director of Government Communication Department, and Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Director of GCC Affairs, represented the Ministry of Finance at the meeting. From the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s side, attendees included Dr. Latifa Al Ameri, Acting Executive Director of the Relationships and Membership Affairs Sector, Hilal Al Hamli, Advisor for Special Task Development, Mohammed Al Sabbagh, IT Advisor, Aref Al Fara, Economic Advisor. Several specialists from the Ministry and the Chamber also were in attendance.

As he welcomed the attendees,Younis Al Khoori said: “The Ministry of Finance seeks to establish effective communication to create a supportive environment that elevates the levels of governmental work in line with the directions and strategies of the UAE.”

He added: “The Ministry of Finance prioritises national talents, developing their competencies, and refining their skills in finance, taxation, and other domains. This approach aligns with the nation’s directives and commitment to develop the business environment and diversify the strategic sectors. Such endeavours will contribute to boosting competitive efficiency and advancing the UAE’s growth and prosperity.”

 Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi said: “At the Abu Dhabi Chamber, we remain committed to strengthening our cooperation with public and private entities with the aim to bolster economic growth and promote investment opportunities within Abu Dhabi. Our strategic goals revolve around supporting the growth of the private sector and facilitating doing business in Abu Dhabi, where our collaboration with the Ministry of Finance is vital. Through our constructive discussions, we seek to identify our shared interests and the necessary mechanisms to provide the private sector with the right initiatives to encourage investment, growth, and operational development, in addition to upholding global financial and taxation standards in Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE.”