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Third Quarter 2016
The ABC Dubai Newsletter
CEO's Message .......................................................................................................................................... 2
Announcements ................................................................................................................................. 3
Board of Directors .................................................................................................................... 4
News .......................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Looking Back
US Elections and Brexit Brief ........................................................................................................... 9
GCC VAT Forum (supported event) ......................................................................................... 10
Cityscape Global 2016 Kickoff Breakfast .................................................................................. 11
US-UAE Cybersecurity Forum ......................................................................................................... 12
ABC Dubai General Meeting: Culinary Journey & Nominations Committee Announcement ........................................................................................................................................... 14
Global Innovation Summit 2016 (supported event) ....................................................... 15
MICE Middle East Forum ...................................................................................................................... 16
Premier Club Reception with the US Consul General ................................................. 16
Meeting with the US Trade Representative (USTR) ...................................................... 17
Looking Forward .................................................................................................................... 18
Membership Rewards Program ........................................................................... 19
Premier Club Members ........................................................................................................ 21
Table of Contents
CoNTACT INFoRMATIoN:
Phone: +971 4 379 1414Po Box 74648
Emarat Atrium Bldg, office 38 Sheikh Zayed Rd
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
About ABC Dubai
The American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai), the first bilateral trade organization established in the UAE, operates under the local patronage of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
ABC Dubai represents corporate and individual members with business interests across the Middle East and functions as an official international chapter of the US Chamber of Commerce.
The organization’s membership is comprised of American Fortune 500 companies, SMEs, large and small UAE organizations, and professionals from all sectors of business and industry – all accepted after review of eligibility based upon membership qualification criteria
ABC Dubai maintains strong ties with local and international, public and private sector leaders, and organizes events and business advocacy efforts on behalf of its members.
Bilal SaBouni
Chief Executive [email protected]
Valerie Bradley
Engagement [email protected]
liliBeth delatina
Administrative [email protected]
Julia deniS
Communications [email protected]
helena hyde Events Manager
Maiyar Mina JreiSSati
Marketing [email protected]
lauren oldhaM
Membership [email protected]
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Message From the CEO
I am pleased to bring to you the latest of ABC Dubai’s exciting news in our third quarter newsletter. The past three months have seen the announcement of some interesting public sector legislative initiatives such as draft bills for Bankruptcy Reform and a Medical Liability Law. Both reflect the UAE government’s ongoing efforts to set the highest standards of excellence and are highly relevant to any US expatriate living and doing business in the UAE.
September, in particular, has been a busy month, bringing to our valued membership many high-profile events, including a meeting with the US Trade Representative (USTR). ABC Dubai Premier Club members had a unique opportunity to engage with a senior government delegation on trade issues important to their industry. I invite you to discover coverage and photos of some of our other third quarter events in the pages ahead and to mark your calendars for an exciting fourth quarter of high impact programs.
New members to the ABC Dubai team Julia Denis and Maiyar Mina Jreissati are a welcome addition to our office and are busy leading our Communications and Marketing strategy. Please introduce yourselves to Julia and Maiyar at any upcoming event and extend a warm welcome. You will quickly see the contributions they are making to ABC Dubai’s mission to set the standard for top-notch service to our business community, friends and stakeholders. You will learn more about their backgrounds and current roles later in the newsletter.
The ABC team has also been busy with the production of a new directory which you will receive shortly. A valuable reference guide giving your business greater exposure, it is just one of several platforms provided by ABC Dubai to connect you with the larger US business community, friends and stakeholders.
Finally, ABC Dubai has assisted a large number of US citizens to register to vote in this year’s US presidential election, following the opening of an official Voter Registration Center at the ABC Dubai office. Speaking of elections, ABC Dubai’s own Nominations Committee is currently accepting nominations for members interested in presenting their candidacy to be on the 2017 Board of Directors. To nominate yourself or another member of the American Business Council for this year’s elections, please write to [email protected].
This is your association and your participation is what makes it such a widely recognized council in the regional landscape. Thank you for your continued support as we commit to bringing you the best level of service and programming. on behalf of the entire ABC Dubai team, I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in the months ahead.
Bilal Sabouni
Announcements
Julia DenisA US citizen of German and Canadian origin, Julia moved to Dubai 6 years ago with her French husband and three children, speaks four languages fluently, and has lived in seven different countries. A Duke University graduate, she has a strong background in both public and private sector communications. She previously served as a senior political news media advisor to former French Prime Minister, Dominique de Villepin, at the Press and Information Section of the French Embassy in Washington and at the Elysee Palace in Paris. Mid-career, she moved to the private sector specializing in marketing communications and helped to found an international network of global communications agencies headquartered in Paris. Julia now leads our communications strategy and is ABC Dubai’s point of contact for media, PR and internal communications.
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Maiyar Mina
Maiyar moved to Dubai in January 2016 with her husband and is a graduate of the American University of Sharjah (AUS). She comes to ABC Dubai with a solid background in marketing and advertising after having lived in Egypt for one year where she was Marketing Manager of a leading FMCG group. Before that, she was based in Saudi Arabia, specializing in advertising as a senior manager in J. Walter Thompson (JWT), a global advertising agency focusing on integrated marketing and communications solutions. At JWT, she worked with leading American companies such as Unilever and Mars, and won several advertising awards including a Gold Effie for personal care. Maiyar now leads ABC Dubai’s marketing strategy and is the point of contact for all matters related to marketing and social media
New Staff At ABC Dubai
ABC Dubai Board
The ABC DUBAI Board of Directors is pleased to announce the following newly appointed Board Member:
Charles DaalderVice President, Legal Affairs and secretaryGeneral Motors
US GENERAL ELECTIONThe ABC DUBAI Voter Registration Center
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The ABC Dubai Voter Registration Center has seen a steady stream of US citizens come to fill out the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) form in order to register to vote in the November US General Election. Those who have not yet received an absentee ballot can fill out the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot (FWAB).
A valuable new addition to ABC Dubai’s Board of Directors, Charlie Daalder brings to the Board extensive international legal experience. His early work as a lawyer took him from Melbourne to London and back, with a stint in Papua, New Guinea where he was Provincial Legal Officer. He began his career with General Motors (GM) in 2007 as Senior Corporate Lawyer in South Africa. Five years later he served as Regional Transactions Attorney and General Counsel Uzbekistan at GM’s International operations in Shanghai. In 2013, Charlie took the position of General Counsel with GM Russia & CIS, followed by Senior Corporate Lawyer with GM Holden. He moved to Dubai in July to lead all legal matters relating to GM’s operations in the Middle East & Africa as General Counsel.
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UAE BANKRUPTCY LAWIn a move to encourage more entrepreneurship and provide safeguards for existing companies in the UAE, the UAE cabinet has approved a long-awaited draft law on bankruptcy and investment. Economy Minister Sultan Saeed Al-Mansouri has announced that the new law, which paves the way for ailing companies to restructure, may be adopted by the end of the year, following ratification by the Federal National Council and of the Supreme Council, the country’s most senior legislative body.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President of the UAE and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai said: “We have approved the final draft of the Federal law on Bankruptcy. The law aims to promote the investment attractiveness of the UAE economy and facilitate business.” The robust legislation is expected to help smaller companies in particular during periods of economic uncertainty as experienced currently by the drop in oil prices.
Industry bodies, including the UAE Banks Federation led by Chairman Abdul Aziz al-Ghurair, have been lobbying the government to expedite an insolvency law for several years. They claim the absence of formal bankruptcy legislation in the country hinders the growth of small-to-medium-sized businesses in particular, a sector the government is keen to develop.
Under existing legislation, passed by the cabinet in July 2015, there is no provision for ailing companies to restructure. Unpaid debt or a bounced check can carry a jail sentence as well as fines, causing some owners or executives of troubled firms to flee the country and leave behind bad debts. Last year alone these amounted to $1.4 billion, forcing many banks to halt prosecution under a rescue initiative. Changes to the 2015 law are expected to decriminalize bounced checks and facilitate corporate bankruptcy for onshore companies.
Currently, resolving insolvency in the UAE takes an average of 3 years, costs 20 % of debtors’ estate and yields an average recovery of 29 cents on the dollar. While the focus will be on insolvency regulation, the new law will also address investment. It is expected to allow majority foreign ownership of companies in some sectors where it is currently limited to 49 percent or less. According to Abdul Aziz al-Ghurair, these changes are likely to make the UAE business environment more attractive to start-ups and small and medium enterprises.
In its 2015 global study, the World Bank ranked the UAE 31st in ease of doing business, but 60th for ease of starting a business and 91st for ease of resolving insolvency. These figures are likely to get a boost with the new insolvency law, coupled with changes to the overall mind-set and culture, accepting failure as part of an entrepreneurial journey.
News
News
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UAE MEDICAL LIABILITY LAWThe UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention has adopted the new Medical Liability Law no. 4 of 2016 (a revision of Law no. 10 of 2008) to define and protect the rights of patients, physicians and other health care providers in the country. Decreed in September by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, Ruler of Abu Dhabi and Commander of the Union Defense Force, the comprehensive new law draws from medical liability and patient safety legislation of the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. As the UAE strives to promote medical tourism, projecting 13% growth over the next five years, the health care industry as a whole should benefit from a new robust legislative framework.
The American Business Council recently caught up with the CEo of the American Hospital, Peter Makowski, who commented, “The law will enhance the public’s confidence in the delivery of medical care in the UAE. It will also strengthen the UAE’s ability to recruit and retain superb clinicians. And very importantly, it will encourage patients and their family members to more actively participate in the process of care delivery to their loved one.”
The law guides healthcare services to obtain mandatory malpractice insurance from a licensed UAE insurance company, outlines doctors’ responsibilities and details the process of investigation and disciplinary proceedings in cases of alleged negligence or malpractice. It covers everything from patient consent and doctor/patient privilege to communicable disease protocol. A medical liability commission has been set up by the Minister of Health and Prevention and the chairman of the local health authority to examine cases. In case of disagreement with the commission’s decision, patients, doctors and providers have 30 days to appeal it with the Supreme Medical Liability Commission whose decision is binding.
Patients who are victims of medical negligence or malpractice can take action against their physician or healthcare provider by bringing a civil prosecution case before the courts and, in certain cases, pursue a criminal case against the practitioner with the public prosecutor. For malpractice to be classified as a criminal act, however, it has to be deemed ‘gross malpractice’ by the higher commission. Until a final decision is reached, the defendant(s) cannot be arrested, questioned or detained. Sentencing may include payment of a fine and compensation to the victim or a prison term.
The 43 articles of the law include a provision for amicable out-of-court settlement, even after a final court ruling is issued. In such a case, a lawsuit can be dismissed and any penalty suspended, but a victim may still seek compensation before a civil court. In the event of recurring gross malpractice, out-of-court settlement is not an option. Another provision exempts doctors or other healthcare providers from medical liability in cases such as the manifestation of complications not related to medical malpractice or patients’ failure to heed medical instructions or to follow appropriate treatment, just to name a few.
While certain allowances may be made on a case by case basis, in principle the new law bans human cloning, abortion, gender reassignment and euthanasia. Gender correction, medical termination of pregnancy and cessation of life-support procedures or refusal to practice cardio pulmonary resuscitation may be considered under certain circumstances by a three-member special committee which examines each case based on individual merit. The special committee will also oversee requests for deliberate sterilization. Birth control, under the new law, is subject to consent of both spouses.
News
UAE – THE THIRD MOST CONNECTED COUNTRY GLOBALLY
According to research firm GfK’s Connected Consumer Index 2016 report, the UAE has risen from 8th to 3rd position globally, in a single measure covering how much and on what devices consumers in each of 78 countries and 8 world regions digitally connect with each other. Testimony to its high growth market, the UAE ranks third in the survey, just after Hong Kong and North America, with the average person in the UAE owning at least three connected devices.
With 63% of UAE consumers using smartphones and other devices to connect to data services and search for local businesses, mobile technology is having a profound influence on the consumer decision-making process and providing greater opportunity for businesses with an online market strategy. According to the survey, 84% of UAE residents go online at least as often via a smartphone as a computer, a 44% increase since 2012. Wearable and smart devices add to existing traditional mobile technology, affecting the way people live and interact.
The survey incorporates 11 types of devices: smartphones, tablets, mobile PCs, desktop PCs, wearables, smart TVs, TV set top-boxes, video game consoles, e-readers, connected cars and smart homes, with data weighted for usage. As people’s lives become increasingly interconnected, there is a shift in the way they connect to data services. Most competitive business strategies now embrace the multiplying effect of mobile technology to enhance the consumer experience and accelerate revenue.
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DUBAI CHAMBER’s SMART BUSINESS APP and SMART MEDIATION APP
In related news, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently introduced two new apps available for download: the Smart Business App and the Smart Mediation App.
The Smart Business App helps member businesses to network with the Dubai business community through their phone. Users can build an online profile to promote their products or services, search for potential business partners by industry and sector, set up meetings and book a meeting room or conference facility, apply for Dubai Chamber credit rating and CSR label services and join the award program, access the latest news and calendar updates of Dubai Chamber events.
The chamber’s user-friendly Smart Mediation Application serves as an alternate dispute resolution method. The first of its kind in the region, the bi-lingual (Arabic and English) app comes in response to a growing demand by businesses throughout the Middle East, and particularly in Dubai, to find simple, fast and cost-effective measures to resolve disputes, whenever possible.
As its name implies, the Smart Mediation App connects disputing parties to an impartial, third-party intermediary who helps them define the issues in dispute, facilitates communication and assists them in reaching a practical and mutually satisfactory agreement. The service aims to resolve commercial disputes amicably in a quick, confidential and cost effective manner - to preserve business relations and give involved parties maximum control over the outcome.
Mediation is suitable provided that: the dispute is commercial, the complaint is against an establishment or company, at least one of the disputed parties is a Dubai Chamber member, the dispute does not fall under any other authorities’ jurisdiction and is not ongoing through any official Litigation or Arbitration process. Applicants can submit their mediation requests and relevant documents followed by payment, then track their case with real time status reports.
News
he American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai), in partnership with the law firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer
& Feld LLP, organized a knowledge-sharing business program around the theme of the impact of the US presidential election and Brexit on expatriates in the UAE, on August 9 at the oberoi Hotel, Dubai. ABC Dubai also invited the German, Australian, British, Canadian, Italian, Russian, Swiss, US-UAE, South African and Spanish business councils to attend and participate.Panel speakers Susan Lent and Christopher Leonard, partners at Akin Gump’s US, UK and UAE offices, and American University of Dubai (AUD) President Dr. Lance de Masi, shared their views on the US general election and the short- and long-term effects of Brexit, both hot button issues with wide-reaching global implications. The discussion was moderated by Prakash Mehta of Akin Gump.During the ensuing Q&A session and lively networking reception with dinner buffet, attendees addressed other issues particularly relevant to expatriates such as taxes, the Middle East & UAE as a region and its general investment landscape. The results of an ABC Dubai survey of participants reflected praise of the speakers’ expertise and insight on the US electoral process. Many expressed appreciation at obtaining a better understanding of the complexities of the American electoral system.
US Elections & Brexit briefAn overview of the impact on expatriates in the UAEAugust 9, 2016
Looking Back...
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he American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai) supported a forum on the upcoming introduction of a new value added tax (VAT) in the UAE, on August 30 at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Dubai. Organized by IQPC, the event focused on three segments:
• Exploring the GCC VAT landscape.• Overcoming logistics and compliance burdens for smooth transition.• Combatting HR and commercial issues facing business when introducing VAT.
Benefiting from a member discount on the registration fee, ABC Dubai members had an opportunity to hear from and network with other business leaders and industry experts including ABC Dubai members Ernst & Young, KPMG, Deloitte, as well as Emirates NBD and others, as they discussed ideas for creating a winning VAT implementation strategy. Participants were able to hear from financial experts and learn strategies on how to overcome HR, commercial and logistical challenges brought on by the introduction of the VAT. KPMG, UAE, conducted an interactive workshop allowing participants to understand the types of systems needed to meet VAT requirements in an efficient and cost-effective way.The consensus of various panel discussions was that a successful transition into the VAT era entails preparing systems and processes in order to effectively manage VAT, assessing and managing the commercial implications of VAT on your business, developing an HR strategy to ensure the right people are in place to manage VAT with your business. A well-managed plan will ensure that companies are able to comply with the new tax obligations including charging, collecting and paying VAT and excise tax to the authority in a timely manner.
GCC VAT ForumAugust 30, 2016
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Looking Back...
Cityscape Global 2016 kickoff breakfastSeptember 6, 2016
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Looking Back...
he American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai) and the Canadian Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates joined forces at a breakfast kickoff of the Cityscape Global Conference on September 6 at the Capital Club, DIFC, Dubai, for an overview of
key market vectors in construction and real estate projects. Discussions centered on better understanding and anticipating the current and future investment potential of this rapidly- and now more steadily-growing business sector in Dubai.
Following opening remarks and introductions by Bilal Sabouni, CEo of ABC Dubai, and Colin Beaton, Vice-Chairman of CBC, Wissam Ayoub, Vice-President-Middle East of global construction and building services company EllisDon, introduced the panel. ABC Dubai member Hamed Zaghw, Coo & Executive Vice President, Middle East, Aecom and Dana Salbak, Head of Research, Knight Frank shared their insights on current market conditions, the global investment outlook, demand drivers, market gaps and the latest trends. Sabouni and Beaton thanked the panelists at the end of the discussion and presented them with a token of appreciation on behalf of the Councils.
Cityscape is the world’s largest networking exhibition and conference on property development, with more than 300 companies and 1400 delegates from the UAE and globally showcasing their projects. Since 2002, Cityscape Global has established itself as the region’s largest and most influential international real estate development and investment event.
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US-UAE Cybersecurity Forum September 7, 2016
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he US Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with The American Business Council of Dubai and the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai), The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Dubai Internet City, organized the US-UAE Cybersecurity Forum on September 7, at the Marriott Marquis, Dubai.
ABC was proud to co-organize this high-level cybersecurity forum, connecting American companies with top US and UAE government officials and leaders in the cybersecurity community. The Cybersecurity Forum provided a platform to inform public policy discussions in the UAE and to promote investment and trade in cybersecurity.
Following welcoming remarks by Steve Lutes, Executive Director, Middle East Affairs, US Chamber of Commerce, Atiq Nassib, Senior Vice President, Commercial Services, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ramsey Jurdi, President of the Board, ABC Dubai, Majed Al Suwaidi, Managing Director, Dubai Media City, Studio City and Production City, the opening Session focused on a global “audit” of the current cybersecurity situation.
Panel discussions included topics such as the landscape of cybersecurity globally and in the UAE, its threats to industry and how to protect a digital economy, strategies to mitigate risks and prepare for emerging cyber threats, and public-private collaboration on fighting cybersecurity.
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US-UAE Cybersecurity Forum September 7, 2016
The keynote address, delivered to high acclaim by Brett Leatherman, CISSP, GISP, GSEC, Assistant Section Chief of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Cyber Division, operational Engagement Section, addressed the historical evolution of cybercrime from a law-enforcement perspective. With an extensive background as an FBI agent whose missions included piloting and hostage negotiation, Leatherman described specific cases, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention, particularly in cases in which the discovery of a cybercrime is belated. With an interesting comparison between a human hostage situation and an electronic data hostage situation, he stressed that timely intervention is crucial. Leatherman affirmed that fighting individual or state-sponsored “hacktivists” has become a top priority for the FBI, recognizing the potentially devastating impact they can have on a company or public entity when sensitive corporate information is compromised or consumer or patient data stolen. A lively question and answer session concluded the event.
ABC Dubai General Meeting: Culinary Journey & Nominations CommitteeSeptember 20, 2016
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embers of the American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai) whose discerning taste buds were treated to a September 20th gourmet dinner adventure at W Dubai, are not likely to forget the experience anytime soon. ABC Dubai’s most recent General Meeting
took on a whole new dimension as world class chefs of Level Seven and Namu restaurants, respectively, delighted participants with a sample of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine.
ABC Dubai’s Nominations Committee for the new Board of Directors, effective in January 2017, was represented by Ammar Alul, Karen Clark and Charles Laubach. In his opening remarks, Mr. Alul introduced the committee and explained the nomination process. The Board of Directors nominations process will conclude at the end of the November 7th ABC Dubai General Meeting and the subsequent voting period will end at the close of the Annual General Meeting scheduled for November 28th. Candidates may nominate themselves or another ABC Dubai member by directing their nominations to [email protected].
The Culinary Journey evening closed at the W Lounge where guests were treated to a tantalizing selection of desserts including miniature raspberry tarts, layered chocolate ganache cake and a choice of cocktails and mocktails.
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Looking Back...
Global Innovation SUMMIT 2016September 21, 2016
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he ABC was pleased to support the 4th Global Innovation Summit (GIS), organized by SPI Group in partnership with Dubai SME, on September 21st at Atlantis, The Palm. The first panel of GIS 2016, attended by 2000 delegates from a broad range of business sectors, revolved around the theme
“Happiness and the Smart Future”.
In his keynote speech, His Excellency Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEo of Dubai SME, an agency of the Department of Economic Development, emphasized the strides made by the UAE in promoting innovation and sustainable development to bring happiness to citizens and residents. Dubai SME has launched the Hamdan Innovation Incubator to create a comprehensive support environment for entrepreneurs.
ABC Dubai’s CEO, Bilal Sabouni, and President’s Club member Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna, President and CEO of GE Gulf, then participated in a panel discussion titled “Road Map to Building the Happiest City on the Planet”, moderated by journalist Conor Griffin of The Economist Intelligence Unit. Dr. Ali Al-Azzawi, Customer Experience Advisor, Dubai Smart Government, Ghazi Atallah, CEO neXgen Group, Sulaiman Al Maazmi, VP of ICT, World Expo 2020 Dubai, and Anne Le Guennec, CEo, Enova, rounded out the panel. Discussion revolved around how innovative initiatives in the private and public sectors can contribute to the wellbeing or happiness of employees and customers. While companies continually strive to surpass KPIs, they also turn a focus on quantifiable measures of “happiness”, both internally and externally, recognizing the impact wellbeing has on business growth.
Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna pointed to GE’s internal communications App which encourages management-employee dialogue as an ongoing process rather than a one-off annual performance review. Bilal Sabouni illustrated how ABC integrates the drivers of wellbeing in everything the organization does, be it in developing its membership benefits, in creating platforms for growth and exchange, in engaging in business or policy dialogue to contribute to greater understanding, or in creating a sense of community for its members, stakeholders and employees.
With the newly appointed Minister of State for Happiness, the UAE government has recognized the importance of happiness or wellbeing parameters in defining policy and boosting the country’s economic growth, placing this particular issue on the forefront of global innovation.
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n the heels of the GIS summit, ABC Dubai’s CEO, Bilal Sabouni, presented insights on the regional landscape for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry
from a US business perspective at the 4th MICE Middle East Forum. ABC Dubai supported the well-attended one-day event organized by Pinnacle Middle East on September 21 at the H Hotel in Dubai.
“An ABC Perspective on MICE and its Evolution in the Middle East” illustrated the UAE’s steady leadership role in developing what is still a fledgling industry in the Middle East compared to other global regions. While the Middle East currently hosts only %2 of the world’s MICE events, the UAE’s quality business travel offerings are evolving at a phenomenal rate, with a %10 year-on-year growth in visitor volumes.
While many GCC countries are committed to overcoming some lingering hurdles, primarily concerning infrastructure and visa issues, the UAE is challenging international perceptions and a rapidly growing number of businesses see the country as an attractive MICE destination. Dubai alone accounts for %27 of the 1.3$ million industry in the Middle East and is now branded as a symbol of innovation and quality. The UAE’s entrepreneurial and welcoming leadership engages with the private sector, providing a friendly tax structure and adopting sound policy initiatives. The country also highlights its central geographic location, warm and sunny climate, the world’s busiest airport and gradually improving public transportation systems, a broad range of quality venue offerings which can be customized to meet specific business needs and a multi-national environment which can truly stress test any new system or approach.
Future prospects for MICE in the UAE and other GCC countries are promising. As a business council, ABC Dubai is not only an active participant in the event industry but also poised to assist member companies wishing to organize, sponsor or participate in an event.
Mice Middle East ForumSeptember 21, 2016
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he regional heads of the American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates Premier Club membership tiers were invited to a reception in their honor at the residence of the US Consul General, Paul Malik, on September 26. Joining the evening were the ABC Dubai Board of Directors and distinguished
guests from the US Consulate in Dubai.
The President’s and Vice President’s Club membership tiers are highly exclusive membership categories that provide the highest level of engagement and exposure, including privileged access to events and invitations such as this reception at the Consul General’s residence. The tone of the evening was casual and marked by informal discussions between the Premier Club members and the Consul General and his team.
Premier Club Reception with the us Consul GeneralSeptember 26, 2016
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he American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai) was honored to host a morning industry briefing with key officials of the US Trade Representative (USTR) from the Executive Office of US President Barak Obama, prior to their meetings with UAE officials and the Director General
of the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). Jason Buntin, Director for Europe and Middle East Affairs USTR, Jennifer Stradtman, Director for Technical Barriers to Trade USTR, and Joan Hurst, Director of Agricultural Affairs, Office USTR met with ABC Premier Club members in a closed door session on September 28, at the W Hotel in Dubai. Talks centered on a number of important current trade issues, some including:
• Restrictions in the use of hazardous material in electronic devices • UAE control schemes for electric vehicles• Regulation of motor vehicle spare parts• Sportswear standards• Cosmetics & dual registration• Pharmaceuticals• GCC Customs regimes• Regional agricultural industry updates
Jason Buntin is responsible for coordinating US trade policy related to various countries in the GCC, the European Free Trade Area and the Caucuses. Mr. Buntin is responsible for increasing US engagement on trade issues with these countries, including through Free Trade Agreements, Trade and Investment Framework Agreements and other fora.
Jennifer Stradtman addresses technical barriers to trade through various fora, including APEC, the TPP process and the WTO TBT Committee. She has been recognized for her advocacy of the US private sector standardization system during the development US government policy positions relating to standards, conformity assessment and trade.
Joan Hurst shared updates to the agricultural industry, including a significant win in overturning a restriction on sale of US beef products to Saudi Arabia and concerns over government taxes on the soft drinks and snacks industry.
After receiving a briefing from the US government delegation, the ABC Dubai Premier Club members were also provided with time to share their concerns and thoughts on various matters impacting their respective industries.
Meeting with the US Trade Representative (USTR)September 28, 2016
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n keeping with ABC Dubai’s mission to provide high caliber programming as one of your many membership benefits, the fourth quarter calendar is filling up with exciting events. We invite you to take full advantage of these opportunities to network with fellow council members, the greater UAE business community and
government entities.
ABC Dubai Events
IOctober
GetGlobal 2016 Conference, Los Angeles, CA (supported event)20
A World of Wines - Joint Business Council Networking24
Mayor of Denver Trade Mission Reception26
Global Trade Development Week (supported event)30
November
ABC Dubai General Meeting & US Consulate Section Briefings7
Live Coverage: US Election Breakfast9
Inaugural Thanksgiving in the UAE Dinner23
ABC Dubai Annual General Meeting28
December
Christmas in the Desert10
RAK Finance and Investment ForumTBC
Country Spotlight on Saudi ArabiaTBC
Please visit our Facebook page (@ABCDubai) and our website www.abcdubai.com, for more information and updates
EXPO 2020 Event10
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ABC DubaiMembership Rewards
ProgramThe ABC Dubai Membership Rewards Program is an expanding initiative designed to enhance your
membership investment and is a benefit open to all members. Our goal is to support American businesses
within the UAE by promoting an American business referral network, while at the same time enriching the
value of membership in the American Business Council.
A Sample of our Participating Companies
To see what each company is offering,
please visit our membership rewards page at
http://abcdubai.com/company/relation_roster/companyRelationRosterView.html?companyRelationRosterId=4
Dr. Leila Hariri
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2016 President’s Club
2016 Vice President’s Club
2016 Strategic Partner
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PO Box 74648Emarat Atrium Bldg. Office 38
Sheikh Zayed RdDubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 4 379 1414 www.abcdubai.com • [email protected]
Be a part of it.
