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THE DUBAI NORMAL & THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS
ANNUAL REPORT 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Promoting Dubai as an international business hub and supporting the development of business
VISION
To be the best Chamber in the world on driving competitiveness and business growth by 2021
MISSION
Represent, support and protect the interests of the business community in Dubai
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
Create a favourable business environment
Support the development of business
Promote Dubai as an international business hub
Achieve institutional excellence and efficient
management of resources
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
BOARD MEMBERS
Experienced professionals guide Dubai Chamber’s strategy and operations
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
Rashid Humaid Ali Al Mazroei
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Majid Saif Al Ghurair
CHAIRMAN
Buti Saeed Al Ghandi
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Amna Khalfan Al Jallaf
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Ebrahim Ahmed Abdul Nabi Al Abbas
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Dr. Ahmed Saif Belhasa
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
H.E. Obaid Humaid Al Tayer
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Yahya Saeed Bin Ahmed Lootah
MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg
MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Helal Saeed Al Marri
VICE TREASURER
Abdul Jalil Yousuf Darwish
TREASURER
Hisham Abdullah Al Shirawi
2ND VICE CHAIRMAN
Majid Hamad Rahmah Al Shamsi
1ST VICE CHAIRMAN
Shehab M. Gargash
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Sofia Abdulla Saleh
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Abdul Hamied Ahmed Seddiqi
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Abdulla Saeed Juma Al Naboodah
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Ali Abdullah Al Shafar
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Omar Abdullah Al Futtaim
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Essa Abdulla Al Ghurair
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Faiza Alsayed M.Y. Al Hashemi
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Faisal Juma Khalfan Belhoul
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
Hani Rashid Bin Rashid Al Yateem
MEMBER OF THE BOARD
H.E. MAJID SAIF AL GHURAIR
CHAIRMAN
DUBAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
DUBAI CONTINUES ITS SPIRITED FIGHT
AGAINST GLOBAL CHALLENGES
Dubai Chamber will spare no effort in supporting the UAE’s strategic vision and guiding the private sector through Dubai’s next phase of growth and development.
Dubai was able to maintain business continuity and ensure safety of all its citizens during Covid-19 due to technological resilience, smart infrastructure and foresight of its leadership.
“Broad restructuring of the UAE government,
including the merging of ministries and
converting half of government service
centres to digital platforms, demonstrates our
wise leadership’s proactive approach to
adapting to a new reality and future proofing the economy for the post-Covid era.”
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
.
H.E. MAJID SAIF AL GHURAIR
CHAIRMAN
DUBAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
ADAPTING TO A NEW REALITY
As businesses around the world navigated their way through obstacles created by Covid-19 in 2020, the role of chambers of commerce became more important than ever.
online and virtual platforms as of 2020
98%
“Dubai Chamber played a leading role in ensuring business continuity by accelerating digital transformation of core services”
Dubai Chamber is fully committed to supporting businesses in Dubai as they adapt to a new reality and providing access to new opportunities in the next phase of growth.
Advocated for businesses
Offered business guidance for restarting economic activities
Established new channels for cross border cooperation
Private Sector Support
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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PRESIDENT AND CEO'S MESSAGE
H.E. HAMAD BUAMIM
PRESIDENT & CEO
DUBAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
PRESIDENT AND CEO'S MESSAGE
H.E. HAMAD BUAMIM
PRESIDENT & CEO
DUBAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
DUBAI OVERVIEW
THE DUBAI NORMAL AND A
FUTURE-READY ECONOMY
Dubai has navigated its way through coronavirus-related headwinds with determination and resilience.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI OVERVIEW: THE NEW NORMAL AND A FUTURE-READY ECONOMY
RESPOND AND ADAPT
Crucial measures were taken to mitigate the pandemic and reopen the economy:
GOOD GOVERNANCE
Dubai’s resilience in the face of challenges comes from government focus on private sector and enabling business continuity.
Meticulous planning
Proactive policies
Business friendly
Preventive measures
Timely execution
safest places during the pandemic
Dubai among the
TOP 10
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI OVERVIEW: THE NEW NORMAL AND A FUTURE-READY ECONOMY
TRADING UP
Dubai continues to be an international trading hub with its:
Strategic location
Pro-business regulations
Stable political system
Sound financial system
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI OVERVIEW: THE NEW NORMAL AND A FUTURE-READY ECONOMY
EYE ON THE FUTURE
UAE announced 2020 to be the year to prepare for the next 50 years.
2020: TOWARDS THE NEXT 50
DUBAI’S SHARE OF UAE IMPORTS AND EXPORTS AND RE-EXPORTS IN 2019
of UAE's Imports
84%
of UAE's Exports and Re-Exports
77%
Dubai is well positioned to capitalise
on untapped potential and continue
to grow as a strategic trade and
investment hub.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI OVERVIEW: THE NEW NORMAL AND A FUTURE-READY ECONOMY
RISING TO THE CHALLENGE
Dubai Chamber maintained its position as a critical link between the public and private sector as it accelerated digital transformation, ensured business continuity and expanded support to companies.
DUBAI CHAMBER OVERVIEW
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI CHAMBER OVERVIEW: RISING TO THE CHALLENGE
EXPLORING NEW GATEWAYS
In line with its efforts to facilitate cross-border business collaboration, Dubai Chamber launched a series of Global Business Forum (GBF) virtual roadshows examining new economic opportunities in emerging markets.
AFRICA
LATIN AMERICA
ASEAN
Dubai Chamber played a leading role in helping the private sector navigate Covid-19 obstacles by launching initiatives to meet business needs.
DRIVING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
In 2020, Dubai Chamber saw the return on its investment in digital transformation during Covid-19 as 98% of its core services were already available online.
Dubai Chamber launched the #BeSafeWorkSmart campaign to encourage businesses to implement preventive measures and transition to remote working.
e-transactions
659,000
new members
16,000+
value of new member exports
$50.2BN
certificates of origin
632,436
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Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DUBAI CHAMBER OVERVIEW: RISING TO THE CHALLENGE
EMPOWERING BUSINESSES WITH
EXPERTISE AND POLICY SUPPORT
Dubai Chamber provided businesses with the necessary legal guidance and service as well as advocated on their behalf to help them tide over a challenging year.
LEGAL AND POLICY ADVOCACY
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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LEGAL AND POLICY ADVOCACY: EMPOWERING BUSINESSES WITH EXPERTISE AND POLICY SUPPORT
334
mediation cases
draft laws studied
148
resolved commercial disputes
62
42
meetings held by Business Advocacy Committee
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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LEGAL AND POLICY ADVOCACY: EMPOWERING BUSINESSES WITH EXPERTISE AND POLICY SUPPORT
PROVIDING MARKET INSIGHTS
Dubai Chamber provided businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions and compete in a fast-changing economic landscape.
ECONOMIC RESEARCH AND BUSINESS SUPPORT
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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ECONOMIC RESEARCH AND BUSINESS SUPPORT: PROVIDING MARKET INSIGHTS
MARKET INSIGHTS
Launched the Rapid Response Initiative, a B2B health eMarketplace
All training workshops were moved to online platforms in collaboration with AstroLabs Academy
Produced three essential sector-focused guides
services
14,826
e-resources
926
economic bulletins issued
12
NEW INITIATIVES AND TOOLS
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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ECONOMIC RESEARCH AND BUSINESS SUPPORT: PROVIDING MARKET INSIGHTS
ACCELERATING INNOVATION
Digital preparedness and smart services were key strength areas for Dubai Chamber in 2020 that ensured business continuity and enhanced economic competitiveness.
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION: ACCELERATING INNOVATION
659,000
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION: ACCELERATING INNOVATION
Virtual events organised throughout the year addressed issues of importance to the business community:
SMART SERVICES
Legal enquiries
Supply chain trends
Employee safety
core services available online
98%
Global expansion opportunities
e-transactions
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION: ACCELERATING INNOVATION
Dubai Chamber rallied the support of business leaders to amplify awareness of the #BeSafeWorkSmart campaign.
During these challenging times, the best way we can stand together is by keeping apart
Dimitris Mazarakis - General Manager, Metlife Gulf
"In the times of social distancing, there are still many things we can do together. We can all support government initiatives to keep us safe by working from home. If we as individuals have ever wondered how we can lead with purpose, this is it
Aamer Sheikh - President PepsiCo MENA
"Let’s collectively work towards building responsible community and safeguarding our employees future and our businesses
David Stockton - CEO, Dulsco
"Do your part. Work from home. It’s our responsibility to do the right thing and support our heroes working on the frontline
Nabil Habayeb - President and CEO, GE MENAT
A LEADING EXAMPLE
CREATING NEW GATEWAYS
FOR GROWTH
The Chamber continued to explore new business opportunities in promising markets and promote Dubai as a strategic trade and investment hub.
GLOBAL NETWORK
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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GLOBAL NETWORK:
CREATING NEW GATEWAYS FOR GROWTH
2,907
inbound delegations
countries represented by visiting delegations
5,694
delegates received
36
18
outbound missions
433
business matching sessions
OPENING NEW DOORS
A landmark achievement of 2020 was the normalisation of diplomatic relations between the UAE and Israel following the signing of the Abraham Accord.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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GLOBAL NETWORK:
CREATING NEW GATEWAYS FOR GROWTH
ELEVATING DUBAI'S STATUS
AS A GLOBAL BUSINESS HUB
Dubai Chamber’s representative offices have been building industry ties with key markets around the world, identifying new business opportunities for members and stepped up efforts to promote Dubai in the global arena.
INTERNATIONAL OFFICES
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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INTERNATIONAL OFFICES:
ELEVATING DUBAI'S STATUS AS A GLOBAL BUSINESS HUB
11
international offices
2,388
meetings
4,886
event participants
1,120
inquiries received
The international offices, strategically located across Africa, Eurasia and Latin America, are tasked with:
Building ties with public and private sector stakeholders in emerging markets
Identifying business opportunities for Dubai Chamber members
Supporting foreign companies with their entry into the Dubai market
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
INTERNATIONAL OFFICES:
ELEVATING DUBAI'S STATUS AS A GLOBAL BUSINESS HUB
21
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
INTERNATIONAL OFFICES:
ELEVATING DUBAI'S STATUS AS A GLOBAL BUSINESS HUB
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Azerbaijan
Baku
China
Shanghai
China
Shenzhen
India
Mumbai
Ethiopia
Addis Ababa
Kenya
Nairobi
Mozambique
Maputo
Argentina
Buenos Aires
Brazil
Sao Paolo
Panama
Panama City
Mexico
Mexico City
Ghana
Accra
INTERNATIONAL OFFICES
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COMMUNITY
DRIVING SOCIAL IMPACT
Dubai Chamber was fully committed to giving back to the community during challenging times.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
COMMUNITY: DRIVING SOCIAL IMPACT
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The Chamber maximised its social impact through various community and CSR-focused initiatives in 2020.
COMMUNITY SOLIDARITY FUND
An initial pledge of AED 10 million ($2.7 million) was made by Dubai Chamber.
pledge for Community Solidarity Fund Against Covid-19
2.7
mn
$
donation to
fund medical research
204,192
$
food packs distributed to sailors as part of volunteering initiative
400
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
COMMUNITY: DRIVING SOCIAL IMPACT
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ADVANCING MEDICAL RESEARCH
Dubai Chamber made a donation of AED 750,000 ($204,192) to the Al Jalila Foundation as part of its commitment to foster innovation.
A NEW WORLD OF WORK
From remote working and flexible policies to preventative measures and online trainings, Dubai Chamber addressed the changing needs of its employees.
HUMAN CAPITAL
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
HUMAN CAPITAL: A NEW WORLD OF WORK
25
Effective communication, employee engagement, training and people-centric policies were top priorities in 2020.
online trainings
67
188
Dubai Chamber employees
57%
Emiratisation rate
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
HUMAN CAPITAL: A NEW WORLD OF WORK
26
A NEW LANDMARK IN DUBAI
DUBAI CHAMBER HEADQUARTERS EXPANSION
The brand new five-storey building is both eco-friendly and equipped to accommodate a wide range of business events and activities.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DUBAI CHAMBER HEADQUARTERS EXPANSION:
A NEW LANDMARK IN DUBAI
27
Dubai Chamber expanded its headquarters in 2020 with the construction of a five-storey extension building offering state-of-the-art facilities:
size of extension building
square metres
19,000
office space
square metres
4,000
smart parking spaces
330
Intelligent parking system
Retail outlets
Cafes & restaurants
Fully-equipped gym for employees
Rooftop lounge
Over 40% of the extension’s energy requirements will be supplied by solar power and wind turbines
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DUBAI CHAMBER HEADQUARTERS EXPANSION:
A NEW LANDMARK IN DUBAI
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DUBAI CHAMBER
INITIATIVES
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DUBAI CHAMBER INITIATIVES
29
RECOGNISING
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE
MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM
BUSINESS AWARDS
The Awards encourage and empower businesses to enhance their competitiveness and achieve the highest international standards.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM BUSINESS AWARDS:
RECOGNISING BUSINESS EXCELLENCE
30
226
participants joined virtual events
companies have applied since 2005
147
award applicants in last cycle
1,947
The Award, based on a comprehensive selection process and extensive research, provides a robust learning platform designed to nurture organisations to lead in the international business arena.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM BUSINESS AWARDS:
RECOGNISING BUSINESS EXCELLENCE
Dubai saw a new wave of entrepreneurs launch business ventures in 2020 as they turned global challenges into opportunities.
EMPOWERING DUBAI'S
ENTREPRENEURS
DUBAI STARTUP HUB
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DUBAI STARTUP HUB:
EMPOWERING DUBAI'S ENTREPRENEURS
32
With the aim of attracting high-potential international startups, Dubai Startup Hub collaborated with more than 70 business incubators in several countries across the world.
2,166
entrepreneurs benefited from Dubai Startup Hub
48
webinars hosted
315
submissions to Dubai Smartpreneur Competition
150
private sector jobs created by Emirati Development Programme
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DUBAI STARTUP HUB:
EMPOWERING DUBAI'S ENTREPRENEURS
33
UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES
FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Gender equality and women empowerment in the public and private sector remained a priority in the UAE, with the Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC) playing a crucial role in supporting the interests of businesswomen.
DUBAI BUSINESS WOMEN COUNCIL
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DBWC:
UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS
34
The work of Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC) aligns with the UAE’s vision to advance gender equality and enhance women’s economic participation
members
650
250
webinars
150
accelerator programme applicants
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DBWC:
UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS
35
BUILDING THE REGION'S
ASSOCIATION COMMUNITY
Dubai remains an attractive destination for regional and international associations offering a conducive environment for them to conduct business in the UAE and beyond.
DUBAI ASSOCIATION CENTRE
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DAC: BUILDING THE REGION'S ASSOCIATION COMMUNITY
36
total licensed associations
72
applications received
22
new members joined
7
Associations play a key role in the advancement of a particular profession or sector, providing support, resources and networking opportunities.
The Dubai Association Centre (DAC) provides a formal environment for local, regional and global associations, allowing professionals within a common industry or profession who are registered in the emirate to form a member-based association.
7 new associations joined in 2020:
GROWING STRONGER
International Chamber of Commerce UAE Chapter (ICC-UAE)
Arab Association of Surgical & Medical Aesthetics
Sharia Professionals Association
International Council of Museums – UAE
Leisure Marine Association MENA
Entrepreneurs Organization UAE
Middle East Drymix Mortar Association
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DAC: BUILDING THE REGION'S ASSOCIATION COMMUNITY
37
ADVANCING THE
ARBITRATION ECOSYSTEM
Arbitration is a crucial factor in ensuring a favourable business environment and improving ease of doing business. Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) is playing a vital role in positioning the emirate as a regional leader in arbitration.
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION CENTRE
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
DIAC: ADVANCING THE ARBITRATION ECOSYSTEM
38
DIAC responded swiftly to growing demand for its arbitration services during Covid-19, by utilising digital solutions to deliver value-added arbitration services and operate smoothly and efficiently.
registered cases
total cases
handled to date
arbitrator applications
DIAC 40 members
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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DIAC: ADVANCING THE ARBITRATION ECOSYSTEM
CHAMPIONING CSR
AND SUSTAINABILITY
In 2020, CSR became an integral part of companies’ response to Covid-19 as they sought guidance from Dubai Chamber’s Centre for Responsible Business on important matters.
CENTRE FOR RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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CENTRE FOR RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS:
CHAMPIONING CSR AND SUSTAINABILITY
25
webinars hosted
Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network members
1,816
delegates received
73
834
volunteers participated in Give & Gain Week
14,854
volunteering hours
TACKLING NEW CHALLENGES
The Centre launched a number of new initiatives:
The first-of-its-kind Business Mentoring and Support (BMS)
A new Task Force on Prompt Payment Practices for Sub-contractors and Suppliers
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
CENTRE FOR RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS:
CHAMPIONING CSR AND SUSTAINABILITY
41
TOWARDS A KNOWLEDGE-
BASED ECONOMY
University of Dubai, an initiative of Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is fostering a culture of innovation and preparing its students for a fast changing workforce.
UNIVERSITY OF DUBAI
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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UNIVERSITY OF DUBAI:
TOWARDS A KNOWLEDGE-BASED ECONOMY
university graduates
new students enrolled
webinars and virtual events in 2020
solar powered campus
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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UNIVERSITY OF DUBAI:
TOWARDS A KNOWLEDGE-BASED ECONOMY
MEDIA GALLERY
2020 HIGHLIGHTS
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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2020 HIGHLIGHTS: MEDIA GALLERY
View some of the Dubai Chamber's key events photos and videos from 2020.
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Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
45
2020 HIGHLIGHTS: MEDIA GALLERY
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Due to COVID-19 situation, Dubai Startup Hub‘s Market Access Programme 2020 shifted virtually (July 2020)
During Dubai Startup Hub‘s participation at GITEX Future Stars 2020 (December 2020)
During the inaugural virtual event of the kick off session of the Chamber Connect Series, a new series launched by Dubai Chamber (October 2020)
During the launch of Dubai Chamber Interview Series headlined by H.E. Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (September 2020)
During the return of Dubai Chamber employees to offices, following the lockdown and remote working due to COVID-19 situation (June 2020)
During the 2nd roundtable meeting of the Business Groups & Councils (May 2020)
During the visit of H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy; H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs; and H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, to further strengthen partnerships between public and private sectors (August 2020)
Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) organised a webinar on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the arbitration landscape and practical solutions (June 2020)
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
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2020 HIGHLIGHTS: MEDIA GALLERY
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FROM OUR SOCIAL MEDIA
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DUBAI CHAMBER 360° DIALOGUE
Listen to how startups and the supply chain industry has had to reinvent themselves and processes to deal with the pandemic
DUBAI CHAMBER INTERVIEW SERIES
Watch exclusive interviews with HE Helal Al Marri, Director General at the Dubai Tourism, and HE Khalfan Belhoul, CEO at Dubai Future Foundation
Dubai Chamber held many virtual sessions for the benefit of the business community. Here are some of them for you to watch. All webinars can be found on our YouTube Channel.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
2020 HIGHLIGHTS: MEDIA GALLERY
47
DUBAI STARTUP HUB
Hear from members Dubai’s startup ecosystem share their inspiring startup stories
DUBAI CHAMBER SUSTAINABILITY WEEK
Listen to many experts talk about how their organisations dealt with the pandemic at the workplace.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2020
2020 HIGHLIGHTS: MEDIA GALLERY
47
