All the latest news and events from AmCham Dubai
Q4 - 2020
THE AMCHAM UPDATE
AMCHAM DUBAI MEMBERS MAKE FORBES’ TOP 50 IN THIS ISSUE
OUR MEMBERS MAKE THE FORBES’ TOP 50
U.S- U.A.E 2019 TRADE STATS
THIS WINTER’S STAYCATION OFFERS
CEO’s Heading International Companies List.
See the trade between the two countries for 2019.
Looking to get away this winter, check out our hotel member offers.
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
A NOTE FROM OUR MD
THE NEW NORMAL A LETTER FROM AMCHAM DUBAI’S MANAGING DIRECTOR
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Dear AmCham Dubai Stakeholders, Firstly, I want to say “THANK YOU” to our AmCham Dubai members and partners who have proven that collaboration enables even the greatest of challenges to be overcome! As we look ahead into 2021— AmCham Dubai is hopeful for a healthy and successful year with the COVID-19 vaccine coming online. We extend our gratitude to the UAE for leading on this virus and especially for the ability to have safe and effective vaccines available to all who wish to be protected! We wish President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris well as they assume their leadership of our nation. President Biden’s message of unity has been consistent and we are hopeful that he can indeed make deals to get things done for the American people. “With the campaign over, it’s time to put the anger and the harsh rhetoric behind us and come together as a nation,” Biden said. After a year of pain and loss, let us unite, heal, and rebuild in 2021. Closer to home, this will also be a year of milestones as the UAE celebrates its’ Golden Jubilee with the message,
“United by a spirit of innovation and common cause for a better world, we will achieve even more together next year and beyond”. Also, AmCham Dubai will mark 35 years of service - we are looking forward to celebrating these milestones in style. In addition, EXPO 2020 is set to launch on October 1, 2021 - this once in a lifetime event, the largest in the Arab world is set to welcome 190 countries and millions of visitors from around the globe. Expo 2020 aspires to create a meaningful legacy that will benefit generations to come, both locally and globally spanning everything from innovations and architecture to friendships and business opportunities. With that said, AmCham Dubai will continue to host meaningful programming (both online and in-person) to meet the ever-changing needs of our business environment. We look forward to your continued commitment and engagement for the new year. Regards, Cara Nazari Managing Director
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
IN THIS ISSUE
AmCham operates under the local patronage of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry and is a member of the Global Network of American Chambers of Commerce in Washington, DC.
EVENTS CALENDAR
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COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT
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MEMBER NEWS
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RECENT NEWS
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The Council’s membership is comprised of American Fortune 500 companies, SMEs, and U.A.E. organizations across all sectors of business and industry and includes American and Emirati individuals. All are accepted after review of eligibility based upon membership qualification criteria defined in the AmCham constitution and by-laws.
TRADE STATISTICS 2019
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COMMITTEE UPDATES
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WINTER HIGHTLIGHTS
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AmCham Dubai organizes events and webinars in partnership with key public and private stakeholders from the U.S., the local region as well as internationally. AmCham Dubai’s goal is to strengthen commercial ties between the U.S. and the U.A.E. and offer exceptional value and support services to its members. #bepartofit
THE EXECUTIVE TEAM
Cara Nazari Managing Director AmCham Dubai
Helena Hyde
Cynthia Beermann
Program & Events Director
Membership Manager
Laura Goodnight
Megan Lewonowski
Engagement Manager
MarComm Administrator
IN MEMORY OF RANIA RIZK VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF LEGAL COUNSEL FOR PEPSI CO M.E.A, PASSES AWAY It is with great sadness that we share the tragic news of the passing of our member and colleague Rania Rizk on Sunday, December 20, 2020. Rania was a role model for every woman looking to succeed at anything she chose to accomplish. An outstanding business leader, diligent cause champion, loving mother and warm friend. Rania Rizk was Vice President & Chief Legal Counsel for PepsiCo’s Middle East Africa (MEA) Region. A passionate champion of Diversity & Inclusion, Ms. Rizk played an active leadership role in furthering PepsiCo’s D&I agenda within the region. She was a driving force behind the Region’s female talent development initiatives. Rania did it all with a steady hand and a reassuring smile that inspired everyone she touched.
Lilibeth Delatina
Kathy Hyde
Accounts Administrator
Special Projects
Rest in peace. You will be missed.
ABOUT AMCHAM DUBAI
About AmCham Dubai
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
STATEMENT BY AMBASSADOR
AMBASSADOR STATEMENT
JOHN RAKOLTA JR.
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The world witnessed shocking events unfold on January 6 at the United States Capitol, home of the most powerful and longest-enduring representative democracy in the history of the modern world. I condemn in the strongest possible terms the violence that took place in those hallowed halls. It is my firm belief that violence is never the solution. But America’s democratic foundation remains solid, as we saw in the hours after the chaos when Vice President Pence stood alongside Speaker Pelosi to complete the constitutionally-enshrined process of certifying electoral votes. This is the final step in the process to confirm the outcome of the Presidential Election in which the American people chose Joseph Biden and Kamala Harris as the next President and Vice President of the United States.
my fellow Americans to celebrate the triumph of our democratic principles and our constitutional system over violence and disorder. Though my service as the US Ambassador to the UAE will come to an end on that same day, I will leave with pride and honor to have represented my country in the UAE, and I will wish only success to the new President and to whomever he chooses to follow me as Ambassador to this wonderful country.
On January 20, 2021, President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris will be sworn into the highest offices in the land, and I will stand proudly alongside
Regards, John Rakolta Jr. US Ambassador to the UAE
U.S. Embassy & Consulate in the United Arab Emirates
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
PROGRAM & EVENTS CALENDAR 2021 JANUARY Roundtable on U.S. - U.A.E. Cooperation in Data Privacy The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s 2021 State of American Business
Tue 12
World-Renowned Expert Discusses the Global Impact of COVID-19 Vaccine
Thurs 14
U.A.E. Skills Sector Hospitality Review with MNBCTF & MOHRE
Wed 19
U.A.E. Skills Sector Technology Review with MNBCTF & MOHRE
Wed 20
Board of Directors Meeting
Sun 10
U.A.E. Skills Sector Energy Review with MNBCTF & MOHRE Joint Event: Member Spotlight Networking for SME Sector
Tues 26 Postponed
FEBRUARY Joint Council Networking evening
Thurs 11
IP Update: Restructuring Your GCC Patent Filing Strategy in View of the Amendment to the GCC Patent Law
Mon 15
Food Security Panel
Mon 22
Virtual Trade Show
Wed 24
U.S. Tax Talk
TBC
MARCH Spotlight on Israel
Wed 3
Women in Leadership in the Northern Emirates
Tue 9
Board of Directors Meeting
Sun 14
HR Committee Meeting
Tues 16
EVENTS CALENDAR 2021
Tue 5
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
RENEWAL ANNOUNCEMENT The AmCham Dubai membership renewal drive is in full swing. If you have not yet received your information about renewing please get in touch by emailing: membership@amchamdubai.org For those of you that have renewed we thank you for your continued support. 2021 will be an action-packed year filled with online and in-person events. #BEPARTOFIT
Talk to our membership team to discuss how you can join today +971 4 242 0020 | info@amchamdubai.org | amchamdubai.org
OUR TEAM 2021
OUR 2021 BOARD
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Sammy Bousaba
Said Haddad
Roula Droubi
Shamsa Al Falasi
Amer Afifi
President
Executive Vice President
Vice President Programs
Vice President Membership
Vice President Financial Affairs
Quinn Kurtz
Sura Alawi
Nizar Heneidi
Raed Hergli
Robert Nichols
Vice President Legal Affairs & Secretary
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Robert Mikhael
Cara Nazari
Anne Jafery
Board Member
Managing Director
Immediate Past President
Francis “Chip” Peters Commercial Attache U.S. Consulate Dubai
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
CAA ANNOUNCES RE-OPENING OF AIRSPACE BETWEEN UAE AND QATAR
The GCAA said that it will resume scheduled and unscheduled flights between the two countries, in coordination with the civil aviation authorities and national carriers in the UAE. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that the UAE would reopen its land, sea and air borders with Qatar as of January 9, 2021.
According to Khalid Abdullah Belhoul, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the UAE will end all measures taken against Qatar as per the statement issued on June 5, 2017, following the signing of the “AlUla Declaration”. “AlUla Declaration”, which features a permanent solidarity agreement, is considered a Gulf and Arab achievement that strengthens the unity and cohesion of the Gulf, Arab and Islamic countries. Belhoul said the UAE will reopen all land, sea and air ports for incoming and outgoing movement, and the relevant authorities in the country have been instructed to implement this decision as of January 9. Click here to read the full article here
NEW ABU DHABI TRAFFIC RADARS GO LIVE Starting from January 1, 2021, radars will catch motorists for seat belt, phone violations. Abu Dhabi: The new traffic radars in Abu Dhabi are all set to start catching errant motorists on January 1, 2021. The new radars, which were installed across various locations of Abu Dhabi city, will snap photos of motorists who use their mobile phones while driving, as well as those who fail to buckle up. The Vehicular Attention and Safety Tracker (VAST), launched by Abu Dhabi Police in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Digital Authority (ADDA), aims to reduce road accidents and enhance traffic safety in the
emirate. The Data and Modern Technology team from ADDA worked closely with the relevant team from the Abu Dhabi Police to develop this joint analytical model by collecting, tracking, analysing and processing data using artificial intelligence techniques. Police had earlier explained that the new radars will be able to capture high-resolution images through artificial intelligence-powered cameras. An automated process then analyses the images to detect seat belt and mobile phone violations. If drivers are caught breaking the mobile phone or seat belt rule, they will then receive a SMS as a record of their violation, and a notice to rectify their behaviour.
NEWS UPDATES
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced reopening of airspace and resuming of air traffic between the UAE and the State of Qatar as of Saturday, January 9th, following the signing of the Al-Ula Declaration, which includes an agreement for permanent solidarity.
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
DUBAI LITTLE LEAGUE:
ORIGINS AND EARLY YEARS In 1996, Andy and Sally Ritter, a General Motors family, wanted their boys to be able to play baseball, and Dubai did not have a program.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
1997
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In the Fall of 1997, the Ritters had gathered a small group of parents to organize a baseball league in Dubai, to serve as its Board of Directors, and to apply to Little League International for a charter, which was granted in 1998. The new Dubai Little League reached agreement with the Dubai Softball League to play baseball on their dirt fields at the former Metropolitan Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road.
2001 After the tragedies of September 11, 2001 President of the American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, met to confirm the commitments of the American business community and the Dubai Government, and considered ways to demonstrate those commitments. The ABC President described the DLL program in detail and suggested that if the government would provide suitable land, the DLL would raise the funds to build baseball fields. Sheikh Mohammed agreed.
2003 1997/98 The first playing season, 1997/98, the DLL fielded 16 teams in 4 divisions, with each team sponsored by a different company, which provided necessary funds for DLL expenses and widened the visibility in the community. The players, numbering 220, boys and girls, came from numerous schools and over 10 countries. From there, the DLL kept growing, and in 2001 organized the Goodwill Tournament among Dubai and Abu Dhabi Little League and the National Junior team of Iran. It was the first tournament involving Iran that was sanctioned by Little League International.
With Sheikh Mohammed’s commitment for the land, the DLL began raising funds, and with two million dirhams from four anchor sponsors - Emirates Airlines, Skywards, Pepsi-Cola and General Motors - in February 2003 construction began.
2004
2006
The fields were completed in 2004, and the DLL had its own home. Over the next years, the fields were expanded and improved, including the addition of lights for night games, and the numbers grew to over 400 players from over 40 nationalities.
Since 2006, teams from the DLL U-12 Majors division have been participating in qualifying tournaments for the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Dubai Little League teams now participate in the Asia-Pacific region.
2010 In 2010, the Dubai Little League introduced its Challengers Division, an initiative to include Special Needs children in the League. Over 200 children have participated in the Challenger Division. Now in its third decade, the Dubai Little League is strong, but wants to grow further, to expand the opportunities for youth of all nationalities to play baseball, and to increase participation in international tournaments. Please join us. We need everyone’s support.
2005 In 2005, the Dubai Little League initiated an annual international tournament, hosting teams from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar as well as teams from places as far away as Australia, Singapore and South Africa.
PODCAST Listen to the Dubai Little League podcast here >
FIND OUT MORE: WWW.DUBAILITTLELEAGUE.COM FOLLOW:
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
AMCHAM DUBAI MEMBERS MAKE FORBES’ TOP 50
MEMBER NEWS
Congrats to our many AmCham Dubai members for making the Global Meets Local - Forbes’ Top 50 Regional CEO’s Heading International Companies List.
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The only thing better than working with so many amazing companies every day is seeing those company’s receive industry recognition (and, in this case, major awards) for all the hard work they do. The success of companies globally generally depends on how well they can understand specific regions. Being the regional leader of a global company is a very complex role. Regional heads need to keep in mind local culture, social norms, and other factors like demographics and infrastructure, all while maintaining and keeping up with the ethos of the brand. Global companies play a big role in nationbuilding in the Middle East. Many regional leaders of multinational companies have partnered with governments to bring cutting edge technologies to the region. Several companies have partnered with government bodies to build innovation centers and incubators to encourage entrepreneurship. Today, we’d like to extend a big congratulations to 14 of our corporate members who made the competitive Global Meets Local List for 2020. Click here to read the full article here
Listed AmCham Members 1.
GE
5.
Mastercard
10. PepsiCo 11. Standard Chartered 12. Honeywell 22. Cigna 26. Boeing 27. Visa 28. Cisco 29. 3M 31. GM 35. Accenture 36. Johnson & Johnson 40. Kraft Heinz
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
CITIGROUP NAMES FARAH ANTONIOS AS FIRST FEMALE HEAD OF MENA BUSINESS Antonios will continue to report to Atiq Rehman, who runs the bank’s Europe, Middle East & Africa emerging markets business, and will join the EMEA operating committee. She has been in charge of Citigroup’s operations in the United Arab Emirates, Levant and Iraq since 2019. Antonios joined Citigroup in 2005 as head of the private bank in Abu Dhabi, and has more than 25 years of financial services experience in the region. She will continue as country officer for the UAE, a role she assumed in 2016. The lender has overhauled its business in eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa to focus on emerging economies. The third-largest U.S. bank is betting unprecedented deal opportunities will follow the economic slump caused by the coronavirus pandemic, weak oil prices and political uncertainty. Click here to read the full article here
DMCC RECORDS STRONGEST PERFORMANCE IN 5 YEARS DMCC – the world’s flagship Free Zone and Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise – registered a record breaking 2025 new companies in 2020, the highest number of registrations in 5 years. Despite an overall business environment shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic, the recordbreaking registrations are a testament to Dubai’s continued appeal to investors and the trust they place in the world’s leading Free Zone.
DMCC’s strong performance is primarily due to the Business Support Package launched in March 2020 that saw interest from companies in 149 countries. This was the business hub’s largest ever commercial offer, offering a wide range of incentives and value added services to both existing and new companies in the Free Zone. Supporting its member companies in the community, more than 8,000 member companies availed over 13,000 offers and incentives granted throughout 2020.
Click here to read the full article here >
Watch the full intervew here >
MEMBER NEWS
Citigroup Inc. appointed Elissar Farah Antonios as the first woman to run its Middle East & North Africa operations, among the U.S. bank’s fastest-growing businesses in emerging markets.
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
AMCHAM REWARDS
MEMBERSHIP REWARDS PROGRAM
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AmCham Dubai business members may offer a variety of exclusive discounts and benefits to our extensive AmCham MENA network. The entire membership can realize significant savings on everyday purchases while supporting businesses that support the AmCham. Why participate? •
•
• •
Highlight your brand within the extensive AmCham MENA network Showcase your promotion on the AmCham Dubai and the AmCham MENA websites Send an e-blast of your promotion to all the AmCham Dubai active members Receive promotions from other member organizations
CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL MEMBER REWARDS
Participating Companies
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
General Events EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES WITH NEW FRIENDSHIPS
CONNECT FOR HEALTH WITH CIGNA: MEN’S HEALTH As we navigate a brand new reality, we recognize the importance of prioritizing your health and wellbeing. Cigna presented:
CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEN’S HEALTH IN THE COMING DECADE
AmCham members from Bahrain, Israel and the U.A.E. joined for a virtual evening of networking and creating new opportunities for trade. During this webinar, we connected in sector focused breakout rooms. Attendees presented their companies for one minute in a moderated session per sector, where we embraced new friendships and explored opportunities.
WHAT COMES NEXT:
A POST ELECTION REVIEW WITH ERIC HAM
Cigna experts discover the answers and gain a greater understanding of the current status of men’s health as well as the challenges and opportunities for the future, including an exciting insight into the world of robotic technology.
RECENT EVENTS
What are the most common urological problems in men? How are prostate health issues managed? What screening tests are available for urological cancers in men?
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
RETIRE IN DUBAI OCTOBER 22
JOINT NETWORKING WITH BBG NOVEMBER 18 BBG and AmCham Dubai members and guests joined an informal networking night at wavebreaker, located in Hilton Dubai Jumeirah.
The Retire in Dubai program provides foreigners above the age of 55 years with the opportunity to obtain a 5 year (renewable) Retirement Visa to retire in Dubai. Retirees must demonstrate their ability to meet certain financial criteria to be eligible for the visa.
U.S. ANTI-BOYCOTT LAW IN UAE – WHY IT STILL MATTERS DECEMBER 7
RECENT EVENTS
AmCham Abu Dhabi’s Legal Affairs Committee presented a discussion: “US antiboycott law in UAE - why it still matters”.
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HR WEBINAR DISCUSSION: UAE SKILLS INITIATIVE AND THE IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY ON HR DECEMBER 15
Following the signing of the Abraham Accords, the UAE ended its participation in the decades-long boycott of the State of Israel. The panel discussed what this means for US businesses, both today and in the future when/if U.S. regulators make changes in response to the accords. The panel discussed the obligations imposed by the anti-boycott law, including the reporting obligations that apply to any company with operations in a “boycotting” country as defined by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
A special announcement from the Ministry of HR and Emiratisation followed by an industry conversation on how you can use technology to develop the employee life cycle. Sulaf Saleh Al-Zu’bi, introduced the Ministry’s “UAE Skills Initiative” which was established to create a skills framework in partnership with private sector companies & industry.
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOVEMBER 24
A FESTIVE HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE AT WESLODGE WITH CBC AND SWISS BC DECEMBER 16
NOVEMBER 19 The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s U.S. UAE Business Program hosted a discussion on Artificial Intelligence Priorities in the UAE featuring: H.E. Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence. Link to bio >
LOOKING AHEAD TO THE FUTURE OF U.S. JORDAN BUSINESS NOVEMBER 19 Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the U.S.Jordan Free Trade Agreement and looking ahead to the future of U.S. - Jordan Business.
RECENT EVENTS
AI PRIORITIES IN THE UAE
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
U.S. - U.A.E.
TRADE STATS 2019
Trade Statistics 2019
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
Overview
$24.4 Billion
$20 Billion
Total bi-lateral two way trade.
Total U.S. exports to the U.A.E.
$4.35 Billion
120,000
Total U.A.E. exports to the U.S.
American jobs supported by U.A.E. Trade.
$15.6 Billion
The U.S. goods trade surplus with was $15.6 billion in 2019, a 7.8% increase ($1.1 billion) over 2018.
Investment
$17.2 Billion
$9.4 Billion
U.S. foreign direct investment (FDI) in U.A.E. (stock) was $17.2 billion in 2019. U.S. direct investment in U.A.E. is led by mining, wholesale trade, and manufacturing.
Sales of services in the U.A.E. by majority U.S.-owned affiliates were $9.4 billion in 2017 (latest data available).
$5.1 Billion
$2.8 Billion
U.A.E.’s FDI in the United States (stock) was $5.1 billion in 2019. There is no information on the distribution of U.A.E. FDI in the U.S.
Sales of services in the U.S. by majority U.A.E. -owned firms were $2.8 billion.
SOURCES:
https://ustr.gov/countries-regions/europe-middle-east/middle-east/north-africa/united-arab-emirates https://www.uae-embassy.org/uae-us-relations/exports-us-states-uae https://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/data/index.html
TRADE STATS 2019
Trade Balance
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
Imports United Arab Emirates was the United States’ 52nd largest supplier of goods imports in 2019.
U.S. total imports of agricultural products from United Arab Emirates totaled $32 million in 2019.
U.S. goods imports from United Arab Emirates totaled $4.3 billion in 2019.
Leading agricultural import categories include:
Leading import categories in include:
• Processed fruit & vegetables ($10 million)
• Aluminum ($1.3 billion) • Special other (returns) ($1.1 billion) • Mineral fuels ($726 million)
TRADE STATS 2019
• Iron and steel products ($245 million)
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• Snack foods ($5 million) • Tea, including herbal spices ($3 million) • Rice ($1 million)
• Machinery ($181 million)
Exports U.A.E. was the United States’ 18th largest goods export market in 2019. Leading export categories in include: • Aircraft ($3.8 billion) • Electrical machinery ($2.8 billion) • Vehicles ($2.6 billion) • Machinery ($2.3 billion) • Precious metal and stone (diamonds) ($1.2 billion)
U.S. total exports of agricultural products to United Arab Emirates totaled $1.2 billion in 2019, our 25th largest agricultural export market. Leading agricultural export categories include: • Tree nuts ($439 million) • Hay ($107 million) • Prepared food ($74 million) • Snack foods not elsewhere specified or indicated ($64 million) • Beef and beef products ($60 million)
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
Export Figures 2019 TOP 10 STATES EXPORTING TO THE U.A.E.: RANKING IS BASED ON TRADE FROM 2016 TO 2019 v
Share of 2019 Total (%)
1
Washington
717
3.64
2
Texas
3,471
17.63
3
New York
1,606
8.16
4
California
1,832
9.31
5
Florida
1,011
5.14
6
South Carolina
2,373
12.05
7
New Jersey
978
4.97
8
Georgia
972
4.94
9
Ohio
628
3.19
10
Illinois
402
2.04
Agriculture Products
Aircraft & Spacecraft
Machinery Products
Metal & Stones
Top Exports
Mineral Products
Motor Vehicles
TRADE STATS 2019
State
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
USEFUL COVID-19 CONTACTS & ASSISTANCE For Assistance:
U.S. Mission to U.A.E U.A.E Embassy in U.S. 3522
U.A.E Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
International Court, NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20008
For travel related issues:
Call: 202 243 2400
Call: +971 2 312 8867 / +971 2 312 8865 Mobile: +971 50 106 6099 Fax: +971 2 554 3883 Email: Operation@ica.gov.ae
www.U.A.E-embassy.org
Dubai Health Authority
Center for Disease Control - CDC
Contact DHA 24/7 through the following channels:
https://usdos.sharepoint.com/sites/CA -Clearance/OCSClearanceDocuments2020
Useful Information:
DHA services: 800 342 Back-to-school helpline: 800 588 WhatsApp: 800 342 - Say “Hi” to start a chat Email: info@dha.gov.ae
www.dha.gov.ae/en/Covid19/Pages/VaccineAppoint. aspx
COVID-19 UPDATES
U.S. Department of State Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
Chat with us via the DHA website or app
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/OCS0395-20/coronavirus.gov
U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en /traveladvisories/ea/novel-coronavirus-hubei -province--china.html
General Directorate of Residency & Foreign Affairs- Dubai (GDRFAD)
Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4
https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ ReturnPermitServiceForm.aspx
Call: +971 2 414 2200 Email: AbuDhabiACS@state.gov
Latest travel updates.
www.ae.usembassy.gov
www.emirates.com/ae/english/help/flying-to-andfrom-dubai/dubai-residents/
U.S. Consulate General Dubai Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed and Al Seef Streets
www.lufthansa.com/xx/en/travelling-and-corona
Call: +971 4 309 4000 Email: DubaiACS@state.gov www.ae.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/dubai
During the COVID-19 crisis, AmCham Dubai is pleased to announce its partnership with APCO Worldwide to support the priorities and objectives of the AmCham community. We look forward to collaborating with the APCO team during these unprecedented times.
CLICK HERE
for Business Continuity Updates.
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
DUBAI ANNOUNCES AED315 MILLION STIMULUS PACKAGE
COVID-19 UPDATES
Dubai has announced the fifth economic stimulus package to help Covid-affected businesses. The latest package is worth AED315 million, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, tweeted on Wednesday. This raises the overall value of business incentives introduced by the emirate›s government to Dh7.1 billion.
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
A Warm Welcome to Our New Members NEW to VP Club
UAE Business
AMCHAM MEMBERSHIP
American Business
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We would like to welcome our new members to the AmCham Dubai
• Craft an engagement strategy
When you join the AmCham you are joining a diverse and collaborative membership organization working together to make Dubai & the Northern Emirates the best place for business to thrive. We’re here to help you make the most of your membership. Whether you have been a member for years or a day, our Member Services Team is here to help you leverage your membership in ways that advance your business objectives. We have a team of talented and engaged memberfocused professionals to help you:
Maximize your membership! We’ll help you create a plan that allows you to take advantage of the Chamber’s core offerings to meet your business needs at every level. • Let us come to you
Our team will visit your office and provide a tailored overview of membership benefits to your staff. That’s a win-win since engaged members offer your organization a competitive advantage and enrich and diversify our programs and events. • Facilitate introductions and attendee lists
Our Member Services Team are happy to make connections
We help to facilitate this work by:
Acting as a catalyst for American business in the region
Creating a consolidated voice of business and thought-leaders for strategic networking, and programs that keep you informed
Providing a relationship building platform among American and other business communities
Driving knowledge sharing and advocating for public policies that contribute to the economic success of our region and generate economic opportunity
Investing in talent through comprehensive leadership development programs designed to connect and grow strong leaders
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
AmCham Dubai’s Premier Club is an exclusive partnership opportunity providing extended access to leadership of relevant organizations. Premier Club members receive many benefits in addition to our typical business member benefits.
VICE-PRESIDENT’S CLUB MEMBERS
President’s and Vice President’s Club levels are investments above and beyond regular membership dues. The funds from the additional dues help AmCham provide new opportunities and benefits for our members while continuing to support program development. At the same time, these members receive elevated exposure and high level engagement. Each level is designed to host a minimum number of members to keep the club relevant. 3 million have now moved up to the VP club.
PREMIER CLUB 2021
PRESIDENT’S CLUB MEMBERS
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
OUR COMMITTEES ISSUE - ACTION - RESULT Our Special Industry Groups meet regularly to identify issues, formulate action items and report results.
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COMMITTEE UPDATES
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O
ISS
LV E
TION VA
DIGITA LI
N & IN TIO NO ZA
CTION - RE
S
DIGITALIZATION & INNOVATION COMMITTEE
The objectives of the Digitalization & Innovation Committee are to share the best market practices and latest market insights on digital and innovation, to educate established corporations on e-transformation processes and startups on the lifecycle of technology and to better understand the challenges U.S. companies are facing working in the marketplace with regard to U.A.E. data privacy.
The goal is to work towards shifting policy for better alignment of regulation. • U.A.E. data privacy laws, protection, and regulation • Review how these laws are reflected in the U.A.E. federally and by individual Emirate • Additional freezone regulations • Impact on American business
AMERICAN BRANDS FORUM AmCham Dubai formed the American Brands Forum with the objective of boosting collaboration between American brands and being the concerted voice of American business in the U.A.E. Topics will include the
following:
• Intellectual property rights and enforcement, such as counterfeiting, piracy, and illegitimate trade • Develop and coordinate efforts with law enforcement agencies on lobbying engagements, and advocacy campaigns • Strategically conduct capacity building and training programs
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
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The Food Regulations Committee has been established to create a robust collaboration platform for U.S. companies based in the U.A.E. to engage and advocate on key regulatory issues impacting the industry while upholding the anti-competition by-laws.
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The committee seeks to create a favorable regulatory environment in the G.C.C. for U.S. companies based in the U.A.E., enabling long term business success and continuity in the region.
HUMAN RESOURCES TASK FORCE
The HR committee will set out to review existing frameworks and recommend a roadmap for developing robust and coherent policies on Best Practice in Human Resources in the U.A.E.
This committee will provide an opportunity for business leaders and government officials to discuss operational issues, exchange ideas, and create a roadmap for continued dialogue towards policy enhancements and reform.
Position papers will be addressed to the relevant governing bodies in order to facilitate change and reform. If you are your company would like to get involved please contact us at: communications@amchamdubai.org
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
Book Your Staycation
HOTEL WINTER HIGHLIGHTS
Many of us will choose to stay put and enjoy all Dubai has to offer. AmCham Dubai’s Hotel Members would like to highlight their Staycation Deals.
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SPLASH, STAY & PLAY! As an AmCham Member, relish in an urban escape filled with a host of exclusive surprises just for you: • Daily breakfast • Exclusive upgrade to the next available room category • Exclusive early 12:00 check-in & late 16:00 check-out • Complimentary access to Laguna Waterpark and The Green Planet once per stay • Access to our temperature-controlled pool • Access to the state-of-the-art facilities at Talise Fitness
35% OFF ON FOOD & BEVERAGES!
• Wi-fi internet access to share your special moments For bookings please email victoria.idina@jumeirah.com
For bookings please email reservations.mpbh@ millenniumhotels.com or call +971 4 875 0077
URBAN OASIS GETAWAY AED 299+ Breakfast for two along with 20% discount off selected F&B venues, Natural Elements Spa & Fitness and laundry services. AED 444+ Breakfast, lunch/dinner for two along with 20% discount off selected F&B venues, Natural Elements Spa & Fitness and laundry services. For bookings please call +971 4 511 777 78 or email reservations.lmd@lemeridien.com
VEGAN PIZZAS
GIN-NIE IN A BOTTLE
A selection of vegan pizzas brought you by Kamilla Omarzay and Chef Davide Gardini
LADIES NIGHT, EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 9PM - MIDNIGHT.
Available 10th - 31st Jan 2021.
AED 129 per lady 3 gin tonics or 2 house grape with bites platter
SPA-CIALLY FOR TWO Cosy up with your Valentine for a perfect day of relaxation in Couple Suite at Waldorf Astoria DIFC Spa. Two-hour bliss including an aromatic hydrobath, personalized 60-minute couple’s relaxing massage, bottle of bubbly and delicious chocolates. AED 2,200 per couple Valid from 1st Jan - 28th Feb, 9am - 9pm For bookings email spa.difc@waldorfastoria.com
BUSINESS LUNCH
UNFORGETTABLE CAKES
Mix business with pleasure at Bull & Bear - 2 course & 3 course meals available, inclusive of tea and coffee.
Signature cakes for all occassions!
AED 105 for 2-course meal | AED 135 for 3-course meal
Our menu features signature favourites such as Red Velvet Cake and Five Senses Valrhona Chocolate Truffle Cake!
Inclusive of tea and coffee. Validity: Sun to Thurs, 12pm - 6pm
View the menu here: https://bit.ly/2QJtvXH
To make a booking: E: bullandbear@waldorfastoria.com T: +971 45 159 888
Order your cake on WhatsApp: 058 600 6774 Have a special occasion? Let us know and we will personalize your cake to your requirement.
HOTEL WINTER HIGHLIGHTS
THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
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THE AMCHAM UPDATE Q4
For further information please contact: Email: info@amchamdubai.org
CONTACT AMCHAM
Call:
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