Welcome to the latest edition of the AmCham Update Newsletter! It's hard to believe that Q2 has passed by so quickly! AmCham Dubai has been hard at work cultivating our committees and building relationships between the private and public sectors.
Our mission of breaking barriers with one voice of American business remains at the forefront of our efforts. One of the ways we have been keeping our membership informed is through our quarterly sessions of "Discover How AmCham Dubai Is Working For You." These sessions have been incredibly successful in providing committee updates, highlighting COP28 engagement opportunities, and offering valuable networking opportunities.
Regional Senior Commercial Officer for the Gulf and Counselor for Commercial Affairs
US Embassy – Abu Dhabi
On behalf of the AmCham Board of Directors we would like to bid farewell to Thomas Bruns, Regional Senior Commercial Officer for the Gulf and Counselor for Commercial Affairs at the US Embassy Abu Dhabi
Throughout his tenure, Thomas has made an indelible impact on our business community, fostering growth, forging partnerships, and championing economic opportunities We thank you for your valuable contributions and collaboration to our members
We believe that by keeping our members informed and connected, we can better serve the American business community in Dubai.
Speaking of international engagement, I recently had the opportunity to attend the World Chambers Congress in Geneva, Switzerland. With the theme of "Achieving peace and prosperity through multilateralism," this event is held every two years and brings together people from all over the world to address common challenges that shape both chamber and business activities. The congress provides an inclusive and constantly evolving format that creates the ideal environment for doing business and networking.
At AmCham Dubai, we understand the importance of global collaboration and the value it brings to our members. By participating in events like the World Chambers Congress, we are able to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in chamber and business activities. This knowledge ultimately allows us to better serve our members and advocate for their interests.
CARA NAZARI Chief Executive Officer
AmCham operates under the local patronage of the Dubai Chambers and is a member of the Global Network of American Chambers of Commerce in Washington, DC.
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 a review of eligibility based upon membership qualification criteria defined in the AmCham constitution and by-laws.
AmCham Dubai organizes events and webinars in partnership with key public & 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 offers exceptional value and support services to its members.
Our host, Dubai Chambers, has recently made a significant move towards standardizing the "Articles of Association" for all business councils and groups. This step aims to establish clear operational frameworks, enhance the efficacy of these groups, and foster greater engagement among their members By implementing fundamental values and principles, Dubai Chambers is also striving to improve the governance and decision-making processes of these groups, while promoting transparency and communication
In line with these developments, AmCham Dubai has made some adjustments to its standard constitution and by-laws. We will highlight the key changes that have been made and provide a glimpse into the full document, which will be approved and finalized during the extraordinary AGM and elections in the next few months Stay tuned to learn more about the exciting updates happening within AmCham Dubai!
Elections and eligibility of board members will have some changes effective immediately - to include term limits, eligibility and election cycle
Membership criteria will only be effected slightly with some minor changes to eligibility
Governance encourages transparency and enhances communication between the Councils and Dubai Chambers AmCham Dubai will continue to be transparent with AGM reporting and audits
Assist the companies in the Emirate to expand in trade and investments abroad
Provide Councils with a platform to establish strong bilateral economic relations and enhance business growth to ensure a more conducive business environment
Provide a cross collaborative platform for the Councils to exchange information related to current and expected business opportunities with respect to the country they represent Establish a clear operational framework to enhance the Councils’ efficacy and Members’ engagement
H I G H L I G H T SThe United States and the United Arab Emirates signed a major new clean energy framework on November 1, 2022 in Abu Dhabi.
The United States and United Arab Emirates announced a robust partnership to ensure the swift and smooth transition toward clean energy and away from unabated fossil fuels. The US-UAE Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy (PACE) is set to catalyze $100 billion in the financing, investment, and other support and to deploy globally 100 gigawatts of clean energy by 2035 to advance the energy transition and maximize climate benefits.
PACE’s ambitious plan is built upon four pillars:
Clean Energy Innovation, Deployment & Supply Chains
Carbon and Methane Management
Nuclear Energy
Industrial & Transport Decarbonization
Input goes directly to PACE team in DC. Please describe the impact of your company's project, how soon it could be active, and what kind of support the project could benefit from.
As a business or organization, you're always looking for opportunities to increase your exposure and connect with industry leaders. As a member of the Premier Club, you'll have access to premier exposure at events throughout the year, as well as targeted marketing channels that align with your business goals But that's not all - this opportunity also offers a range of other benefits that far exceed the cost of membership To learn more about this exciting opportunity and how it can benefit your organization contact Roula at membership@amchamdubai.org
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
JULY
Joint NetworkingEveningwiththe BBG
AmChamDubaiSustainability Meeting-Virtual
AmChamDubaiHealthSector CommitteeMeeting-DTBC
AUGUST
TheBigInterCouncilEvent
-TheAddressMarina
"Final100DaystoCOP28",AmCham DubaiSustainabilitySymposium
-AlmasConferenceCentre
SEPTEMBER
MEEdition-BreaktheCeiling,Touch theSky-Success&Leadership SummitforWomen
-AnantaraDowntownDubaiHotel
DiscoverHowAmChamDubai isWorkingforYou-Joinusfor CommitteeHighlights&Networking -ForMembersOnly
Thu,Aug31
How Sammy Bousaba led the American Chamber of Commerce’s Dubai division through its most challenging moment: the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Something like the pandemic changes your perspective fundamentally, and in many ways, I think that helped us rethink our approach to providing value to our members coming out of COVID.”
Wed,Sep6
Wed,Sep20
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, sustainability has become a key focus for individuals, businesses, and governments alike. In this context, the upcoming COP 28 conference presents a crucial opportunity to build on the progress made in previous years and accelerate action toward a more sustainable future
Against this backdrop, AmCham Dubai members have been actively engaged in showcasing their sustainability projects, demonstrating their commitment to driving positive change.
Take this opportunity to submit your activity - contact communications@amchamdubai.org
For the past decade, Boeing’s ecoDemonstrator program has accelerated innovation by taking promising technologies out of the lab and testing them in an operational environment to solve real-world challenges for airlines, passengers and the environment. Nine airplanes have served as flying test beds for the program since it began in 2012.
The latest ecoDemonstrator is a Boeing-owned 777-200ER that will test about 30 projects that can make aviation safer and more sustainable.
Projects include technologies that improve sustainability and safety for the aerospace industry, including a water conservation system and technologies to improve operational efficiency. Other projects focus on efficiency, additive manufacturing, sustainable aviation fuel and an enhanced vision system for pilots.
ss Release June 1, 2023
DUBAI — The U.S. Chamber of Commerce concluded the U.S. Chamber’s GreenTech Business Delegation to the United Arab Emirates ahead of COP28 in Dubai this November. The trade mission — the largest between the U.S. and the UAE this year— was certified by the U.S. Department of Commerce and featured high level government and business leaders from both nations.
The purpose of the GreenTech mission is to connect leading U.S. businesses with potential investment opportunities in the UAE, and to learn about plans and priorities for COP28. Over 114 delegates from 64 businesses participated in the mission, ranging from large multinational corporations to startups.
Last year, the Chamber led a successful GreenTech mission to Egypt with more than 40 companies in advance of COP27. The Chamber is now working with U.S. Government partnerstodevelopadditionalGreenTechmissionstoothercountries.
The U.S. government was represented on the mission by Ambassador David Thorne, Senior Advisor to U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, Diane Farrell, Deputy Under Secretary for International Trade at the U.S. Department of Commerce, and Jake Levine,ChiefClimateOfficeroftheU.S.InternationalDevelopmentFinanceCorporation.
Following the first full day of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Green Tech Business Delegation, AmCham Dubai, together with AmCham Abu Dhabi hosted a Business Networker event to welcome delegates and come together with U.S. business leaders and Emirati and U.S. government officials as they discussed the road to COP 28.
And at the heart of these efforts is the leadership of individuals like CEO Cara Nazari, whose dedication and partnership with governments and the private sector have helped to strengthen the strategic relationship between these two nations. Recently, this work was recognized by Chargé d'Affaires Sean Murphy of the US Embassy Abu Dhabi, who highlighted the special contributions of AmCham Dubai and its leadership
100+ US green tech leaders visited the UAE to learn about the country’s role as a hub for the green economy & plans for @COP28_UAE .
Organized by @USChamber w/ @uaeembassyus & @usainuae, the delegation explored opportunities in the UAE to speed innovation on climate solutions
May31,2023
U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the GreenTech Business delegation to discuss aspects of deepening cooperation
Engaging, informing and connecting partners and members in person and digital across sectors globally to maximise joint ambitions and actions
All events are IN-PERSON & DIGITAL
*All dates and events are subject to change.
More information about the roadmaps available on www.worldclimatefoundation.org
13 NOVEMBER 2023
The Dubai Airshow 2023 Kickoff Breakfast is just around the corner, and the excitement is building. As the industry's top innovators and trailblazers gear up for another world-class edition, our partnership structure has been enhanced to make this event even better than before AmCham Dubai, in collaboration with AmCham Abu Dhabi and Kallman Worldwide, are honored to host this biennial kick-off breakfast, where attendees will have the chance to network with US and UAE government officials, identify future trends and opportunities, and connect with industry But that's not all – we're also thrilled to continue our support of the Al Worden Endeavor Scholarship fund, which will help send 5 Emirati students to space camp in the USA.
So get ready to join us for an unforgettable event that's all about innovation, exploration, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Mohammed bin Rashid launches with economic targets of AED 32 Trillion by 2033
We know economic p during the decade...the makes way fo who what th
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HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
AmCham Dubai’s recently formed Health Sector Committee will bring together a diverse group of member companies involved in innovative health sectors who aim to contribute to the quality, efficacy, and efficiency of the U A E healthcare system by creating an optimal environment for innovation public-private collaboration. The committee’s mission is to work with the government and private sector to identify common issues and move reform to the next level
Sustainability is a core driver of business productivity and growth in the 21st Century and the public’s heightened expectations for companies have dovetailed with the growing interest of investors in environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, which include diversity and inclusion (D&I). At AmCham Dubai through the Sustainability Committee we are working to help define responsible business as the new normal and to support the business model that has sustainability and inclusivity at its very heart.
Adopting innovation as an approach has become an integral part of every practice, service, and process we do, and with that comes new platforms and regulations for businesses to navigate. The U A E government aspires to be one of the world’s most innovative nations AmCham Dubai will look to provide its full support to achieve this vision through the Innovation Committee. We will look to launch new initiatives, strategies, and programs that spread the culture of innovation in the country and consolidate best practices.
The HR Resources Committee reviews 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. Inpartnershipwith
AmCham Dubai formed the American Brands Forum with the objective of boosting collaboration between American brands & 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 & training programs
The Food & Beverage 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 anticompetition by-laws. 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.
Wednesday,10thMay2023-AlJalilaFoundation
Al Jalila Foundation hosts American Business HR Leaders to learn about its philanthropic healthcare programs and tour Majlis Amal The visit was organized by AmCham Dubai, in collaboration with Cigna Healthcare to support women re-entering the workplace post a cancer diagnosis.
Majlis Al Amal is a first-of-its-kind community center for female cancer patients and survivors.
Al Jalila Foundation, a global healthcare philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives, was founded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Dubai in April 2013, to position Dubai and the UAE at the forefront of medical innovation Click
On June 16, 2023 the AmCham Dubai HR Committee in partnership with Cigna Healthcare hosted a dynamic panel discussion on "A Mindful Workplace". Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that require organizations to adapt rapidly to ensure the well-being and productivity of their workforce. Cigna Healthcare announced their 5% pledge initiative to support company programs in order to improve mental health in the workplace
Small actions can make a big difference. Particularly when those actions are driven by senior leadership in the workplace. When they devote 5% of their time to listening, crafting & implementing changes that improve mental health and well-being, both employees and employers benefit. Happier employees are more likely to perform better and stay longer
The session supported the key role of company leadership in fostering an environment that addresses wellness, ensures affordability and sustains employee attendance and engagement The attendees recognized the need for adaptability, talent nurturing, and employee well-being investments as key factors for long-term success
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
ChiefExecutiveOfficer DomesticHealthandHealth Services,InternationalHealth CignaHealthcare
ChiefMarketingOfficer MEA&CXLead-IHMarkets CignaHealthcare
We understand and support her decision, and we extend our heartfelt best wishes for her future endeavors. During this time, we also send our warmest wishes to Barbara and her family.
Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome back Helena Hyde as our Event Manager. Helena has already taken charge and is eager to reconnect with our valued members Her expertise and enthusiasm will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our future programming
The UAE is a gateway & vital trade hub in the region and globally. The country is at the crossroad to many Middle East countries, Africa, and the Mediterranean, and parts of Europe
Its highly developed yet lax infrastructure appeals to smugglers of contraband and counterfeit goods.
The 3 main law enforcement agencies (LEAs) tasked to combat counterfeit goods are Customs, Police (Economic Crimes Sections), and the various Departments of Economic Development (DEDs).
Ideal investment environment - (Location, Laws, Infrastructure, Flexibility ) Efficiency & Support of the LEAs, especially Police and economic departments UAE houses the regional offices of many brands
UAE can be a leading country in IP A knowledge economy is the country leadership’s initiative Future investments will flow faster toward safer markets
&
Consumer confusion and poor quality service
Significant consumer safety issues
Loss of sales to the brand & partners
Funding of organised crime
Brand erosion and damage
Jan 23, 2023
Announcement of the Launch of the Healthcare Committee during Arab Health Breakfast
Apr 23, 2023
Held a listening session with almost 60 attendees from across the Healthcare sector to discuss the impact of the UAE Health data laws. The session was in collaboration with PhRMAG, MCBG and Mecomed
Feb 23, 2023
KickoffHSCmeetingaligned onaligningtheHSCpriorities withUAEHCvision HealthcareSustainability UAEdataprivacylaw
May 23, 2023
Shared company feedback with US chamber, to prepare a position paper for submission to the U.S. and UAE governments as part of the agenda for the US-UAE Economic Policy Dialogue
Sep 23, 2023
Second HSC meeting / RTD discussion with DHA planned
A networking event for the DHA leadership team and members of the HSC to encourage dialogue and strengthen partnerships between the government sector and the business community and explore potential opportunities for AmCham Dubai’s HSC to support the DHA in advancing the D33 agenda
in the Sultanate of Oman jointly organized by GSO & the USDA
17thMay2023
The activities of the Food Additive Safety Summit were launched today Monday, under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources of the Sultanate of Oman.
The event is hosted by the Sultanate of Oman, and runs for 15-16 May 2023 in Muscat. It is organized by the GCC Standardization Organization (GSO), the US Department of Agriculture and the Ministry of Agriculture (USDA), Michigan University (MSU), Ministry of Fisheries and Water Resources, in cooperation with the American Chamber in Dubai, the Center for Food Safety and Quality, and the Directorate General of Standards and Metrology in the Sultanate of Oman.
In February, the applications were launched for the second iteration of the program, and we have received over 180 applications from 18 countries across the MENA region.
After careful evaluation, we have shortlisted six innovative start-ups that focus on agricultural sustainability
For more details visit www.pepsico.com
The start-up cohort for the second iteration of the program was announced and the six shortlisted companies are Dooda Solutions, NoorNation, RoboCare, Smart WTI, Smart Green, and YY ReGen. Each of these companies brings a unique level of expertise and innovative solutions to the table, covering various aspects of the agriculture value chain, including water preservation and soil cultivation.
AmCham Dubai, celebrates the innovation showcased by our esteemed President Club member, Admiral Corporation of America Inc. Admiral Energy.
Their innovative approach to sustainable energy has led to a groundbreaking partnership with AVIS Rent A Car UAE. This partnership is the biggest commitment to electric commercial trucks in the UAE to date and represents a huge step forward in the transition to a cleaner and greener transportation industry. Congratulations to Admiral Energy and AVIS Rent A Car UAE on this historic achievement!
Managing Director, Strategy & Consulting Lead for Middle East and ASIAM at Accenture
AmCham Dubai is proud to announce that Visar Sala has been honored with the title "Knight of the Order of Star of Italy."
The contributions he has made to our organization certainly demonstrate his leadership and we are so excited that he have been awarded this well deserved honor! Huge congratulations from your AmCham colleagues!
Emirates & United Airlines have officially activated their codeshare partnership,enablingcustomersofbothtoaccessmoredestinationsacross theglobe.
Thepartnership,whichwentintoeffectonMarch30,2023,willofferEmirates customers the opportunity to book flights to more than 150 cities via United Airlines hubs. These include Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), and San Francisco InternationalAirport(SFO).
Congratulations to our amazing member, Chain Reaction, for achieving certification as a 'Great Place to Work'! We couldn't be prouder of the entire Chain Reaction family, who have truly made this workplace exceptional. From the topnotch leadership to the dedicated team members, everyone has played a vital role in creating a positive and supportive work environment
Here's to staying awesome and achieving even greater success every step of the way. We're honored to have Chain Reaction as a member of our community!
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This report serves as the first in-depth DMCC thought leadership report on the global and local gaming and esports ecosystem.
It gathers contributions from key opinion leaders to share their views on where the gaming and esports industry is heading and places emphasis on the drivers of gaming and esports from a technology, culture and business perspective; global trends in terms of market revenue, audience development, and esports and gaming talent; the emerging place of MENA in the international gaming and esports ecosystem; and the key challenges both for the industry and for the MENA region
AmCham Dubai is pleased to partner with the U.S. Mission to the U.A.E. to provide business members access to expedited business visa appointments via the Business Visa Appointment Program (BVAP).
HaveyoutriedtosecureaNon-ImmigrantTravelVisafor businesstravelbuttherearenoappointmentsthatmeet yourrequirements?
Followthesestepsforanexpeditedappointment
STEP 1 Contact membership@amchamdubai.org for the letter template and have your HR department complete the letter for Employment Verification & Business Case for the expedited appointment And return the letter on your company letter signed and stamped to: membership@amchamdubai org, and director@amchamdubai.org
STEP 2
Go to http://usvisa-info.com
STEP 3 Click on Sign-in and make a new Account from there follow the procedures as the site will walk you through it
Through BVAP, the employees of AmCham Dubai’s business member companies who have an evident and urgent need for business travel to the United States will have the ability to request for an expedited appointment.
Only Consular officers can determine visa eligibility, AmCham Dubai facilitates this service at the discretion of the US Consulate.
Participation in BVAP may require separate supporting documentation & members are in no way guaranteed an appointment or the successful issuance of a non-immigrant visa.
AmCham Dubai strongly encourages applicants to apply for required visas well in advance of their intended date to allow for adequate processing time for applications
STEP 4 After finishing all the relevant application details you will be asked if you are an AmCham Dubai Business Member If you are an AmCham Dubai business member or an employee of the business member click the confirm button
STEP 5 Select your appointment timing
STEP 6 Once we receive all your verification documents AmCham Dubai will issue an original letter that must be picked up from our office and accompany you to your VISA APPOINTMENT.
Your visa request may be cancelled if you do not have the original letter with you.
Forallinquiriesorissuesrelatedtothe appointmentortheprocesspleasecontact theUSMissiontotheU.A.E.directlyat:
USVisaDubai@state.gov
CLAW BBQ
is the incarnation of America’s favorite style eatery featuring Southern hospitality at its best.The mood is fun, the vibe energetic, the food mouth wateringly delicious and the cocktails......STRONG!!
CLAW BBQ is a casual no-frillshome cookin’ joint, focusing on the casual family & friends dining experience now open at the 1st floor of Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah!
