Message from the
Chief Executive Officer
Strengthening Partnership. Innovative Collaborations. Engaged Community.
As we reflect on the third quarter of 2024, it has truly been a remarkable period for AmCham Dubai. One of the highlights has been the historic visit of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Washington, D.C., where he met with U.S. President Joe Biden as well as many US business leaders.
Cara Nazari, CEO
This significant moment underscores the enduring strength of the UAE-U.S. relationship, which continues to drive economic and strategic collaboration across key sectors.
At AmCham Dubai, we remain committed to fostering these ties and ensuring our members are at the forefront of new opportunities. Our committees have been highly engaged throughout this quarter, working diligently across sectors to deliver valuable insights and opportunities for our members This committee work will continue to play a vital role as we look ahead to the final quarter of the year.
One key event we are particularly excited about is the upcoming GITEX Kickoff Breakfast on October 14, where we will explore AI trends and regulatory developments that are shaping the future of innovation. We are honored to have Reta Jo Lewis, President and Chair of the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. (EXIM), as our keynote speaker. Her insights will shed light on how the U.S. is supporting technological innovation and global trade through strategic financing Following her keynote, she will meet with delegates to explore financing opportunities, offering a unique chance to discuss tools that can drive business growth
I encourage all members to join us for this important conversation as we navigate the evolving technological landscape together.
Finally, I would like to extend a warm welcome to Robert Raines, the new U.S. Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates. We are excited to collaborate with him as we continue to strengthen U.S.-UAE business relations and explore new ways to support our members
Thank you for your ongoing commitment and support. Together, we are advancing business opportunities and deepening ties between the U.S. and the UAE.
GITEX
This year GITEX is showcasing tech giants and innovative startups in fields like AI, Cybersecurity, Mobility, Sustainable Tech, and more
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
RETAJOLEWIS
PresidentandChairoftheBoardofDirectors Export-ImportBankoftheUS(EXIM)
PANEL DISCUSSION
MODERATOR
LJUPCHOJOSHEVSKI Director-Cybersecurity SolutionsEngineering CISCO
THERESA RENO-WEBER CEO GoodMaps PANELIST
AYDINASLANER
CybersecurityDirector MicrosoftMiddleEast PANELIST
Date
Time
Monday, Oct 14 7:30am - 9:30am
Location
BIJANALIZADEH Co-Founder&Partner
CypherCapital& PhoenixGroup PANELIST
TODDCONKLIN
ChiefAIOfficerand DeputyAssistant Secretary, Cybersecurity/Critical InfrastructureProtection
U.S.Departmentofthe Treasury PANELIST
Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai
We are AMCHAM DUBAI
AmCham Dubai, also known as The American Business Council in Dubai, is the pioneering bilateral trade organization in the U.A.E. and duly licensed by the Dubai Chamber and 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
#BEPARTOFIT
THE EXECUTIVE TEAM
CARA
ROULA HARB Membership Development Director
HELENA HYDE Programs & Events Director
KATHY HYDE Special Projects
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.
WELCOME ABOARD
PROGRAMS & EVENTS CALENDAR 2024
*Eventsdatesaresubjecttochange
OCTOBER
WorldGreenEconomySummit
-InnovationforaSustainabilityFuture: AdvancingClimate
LinkedInMasterClass
-DusitThaniDubai,DIFC
BigInterCouncilNetworking
-JumeirahMinaA’Salam
HumanResourcesCommitteeMeeting
GITEXKick-OffBreakfast -SheratonHotelDubai
F&BRegulationsCommitteeMeeting, -Virtual
Sustainability&ESGCommittee Meeting
BattleoftheBusinessCouncils,Golf Tournament-DubaiCreekGolfClub AmericanBrandsForumCommittee Meeting
NOVEMBER
HealthSectorCommitteeMeeting
AgriNextConferenceDubai -SupportedEvent
F&BRegulationsCommitteeMeeting -Virtual
AmChamDubaiThanksgivingDinner
DECEMBER
2ndEditionFutureSustainabilityForum
HumanResourcesCommitteeMeeting
AGlobalExhibition&Conference
PropellingRasAlKhaimahasanideal InvestmentandBusinessDestination
AmericanBrandsForumCommittee Meeting
HealthSectorCommitteeMeeting
Oct2-3
Wed,Oct3
Tue,Oct8
Fri,Oct11 Mon,Oct14
Thu,Oct17
Thu,Oct24
Fri,Oct25 Thu,Oct31
Fri,Nov1
Nov13-14
Thu,Nov21
Tue,Nov26
Dec4-5
Tue,Dec10
Dec10-11
Thu,Dec12
Fri,Dec13
We are excited to announce that Sylvester has joined us as our new Project Support Executive!
Please join us in giving him a warm welcome. Sylvester brings valuable experience and a fresh perspective to our team.
Together, we’ll create a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and success.
CARANAZARI
AHMEDBINSULAYEM ChiefExecutiveOfficer, AMCHAMDUBAI
ExecutiveChairmanand ChiefExecutiveOfficer, DMCC
Founderand ManagingDirector CHANNELSMEA
ANNEJAFERY SeniorManager, CorporateSalesAmericas&Oceania DMCC
MOHAMMEDMOHAMMED
ABDULJABBAR
CEO,Oils&Fatsfor Afghanistan,Somaliland, andCentralAsia
IFFCO
Entrepreneurs and business leaders gathered online for the informative webinar titled "Grow Your Company Globally from Dubai," hosted by DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) in partnership with AmCham Dubai and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.
The event, which took place on July 31, 2024, focused on the numerous advantages of establishing a business with DMCC through their series "Made For Trade Live "
The webinar featured a panel of industry experts who shared valuable insights on why DMCC is recognized as the world’s leading business hub. Participants learned about the region’s access to global markets, its strategic location, a favorable tax environment, and world-class infrastructure
For those who missed the event, click for the recorded webinar.
Or visit DMCC website (www dmcc ae) to learn more
Sept 23, 2024
July 4, 2024
AmCham Dubai is excited to announce that our Chairman, Sammy Bousaba, and Vice Chairman, Robert Mikhael, were recently featured on Dubai Eye 103.8. Their discussion highlighted the chamber's initiatives and the important role of collaboration in fostering business growth and innovation in the region.
Check out their insights and learn more about AmCham Dubai's efforts to support the business community!
ONLINEMEMBERS PLATFORM AMCHAMDUBAI
Manageyourpersonaldetails andmembershipinformation
RegisterforEvents
Complete renewal and other add-on payments
See upcoming & past events as well as news and a searchable directory of all our member businesses
U.S. Mission to U.A.E.
isexcitedtocollaborate withMr.RobertA.Raines instrengtheningtheU.S.UAEtraderelationship! Congratulationsonofficially assumingyourroleasU.S. ConsulGeneraltoDubaiand theNorthernEmirates.
The UAE President,
US President & Vice President Reaffirm UAE-US Partnership
During Historic Meetings at the White House
WASHINGTON, 23rd September, 2024 (WAM) - President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan spoke of the ‘powerofpartnerships’duringtalkswithUSPresidentJoeBiden attheWhiteHouse.
His Highness reaffirmed the UAE’s unwavering commitment to its US partnership and hailed the power of building bridges with nations that share the same values and ambitions for a brighterfuture.
The meeting was attended by HH Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser; HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy PrimeMinisterandMinisterofForeignAffairs;KhaldounKhalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority; and Yousef Al Otaiba, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to theUnitedStatesofAmericainWashington
Read the UAE joint statement 01.
Read more about the statement from Ambassador Al Otaiba on HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed’s historical White House meetings 02.
RelatedArticles
UAEPresident,formerUS PresidentGeorgeWBush reviewhistoricalbilateralties 03.
UAE USgovernments announceagreementto beginformalprocessfor UAEinclusioninGlobal EntryProgramme
HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Meets United States President Joe Biden UAE President
September 18, 2024
ABU DHABI, 18th September, 2024 (WAM) - President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will start an official visit to the United States of America marking his first since becoming President of the UAE.
During the visit, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed will meet with a number of US officials to discuss ways to develop UAE-US relations at all levels, and will exchange views with the US President on various regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Learn more about the UAE-US relationship here.
AmCham Dubai EVENTS
HHSheikhSaudbinSaqrA Qasimiwitnessessigningof MoUbetweenRAKEZ, AmChamDubai RAK MOUSIGNIN
In a proud moment for AmCham Dubai, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ra Khaimah, hosted AmCham Dubai Chairm Sammy Bousaba, U.S. Ambassador Mar Strong, and American and Ras Al Khaim business members on August 22, 2024.
This important meeting focused on advancing economic collaboration between the U S and Ras Al Khaimah. A key highlight of the gathering was the signing of a Memorandum of
xtend our gratitude to Ras Al Khaimah for the warm reception and continued support as we work together to enhance economic ties and foster growth
ari inspires with message lience at Break the Ceiling the Sky 2024
Break the Ceiling Touch the Sky 2024 program, Cara d her powerful insights on resilience, highlighting its in overcoming unconscious bias, particularly for adership roles.
rsistence encouraging attendees to "put yourself out She believes that being vocal and addressing these g g g p gress.
As the region continues to grow, the visibility and presence of women in business are vital for future success Cara’s inspiring message serves as a reminder that resilience and the active confrontation of biases are fundamentaltoachievinggrowthandgenderequityinleadership
ManalBinismail Manager ConsumerAwarenessUnit
AbdullaBinKalban BusinessAwarenessOfficer BusinessProtection Department
JamaaAlfalasi Manager IntellectualProperty ProtectionDepartment
TheInternal Business CouncilMeeting
at SO/UPTOWNHotel
On August 29, 2024, AmCham Dubai led an internal Business Council meeting at the state-of-the-art SO/UPTOWN Hotel by DMCC, at the request of Dubai Chambers.
Representatives from various business councils across Dubai convened for a dynamic session focused on networking, sharing best practices, and enhancing collaboration
AmChamDubai SupportsConsumer ProtectionVirtual Presentation
AmCham Dubai was honored to support a recent virtual presentation organized by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, focusing on crucial topics related to consumer rights, business protection, and intellectual property protection. These discussions are vital for ensuring fairness and trust in the marketplace.
A special thanks to the speakers, Manal Binismail, Abdulla Binkalban, and Jamaa Alfalasi, for their invaluable insights on how both businesses and consumers can better protect their rights Together, we can work towards building a more secure and transparent business environment
For those who missed it, you can check out the full webinar here.
Key discussions revolved around improving engagement strategies, streamlining communication, and creating value for members through shared initiatives The councils explored opportunities to strengthen partnerships, align on approaches to partnership and event planning, and foster greater collaboration within Dubai's business community.
This session emphasized the importance of unified efforts to ensure consistent and impactful participation from all councils involved.
PARTICIPATING BUSINESS COUNCILS
Members in the
ISMAILMAPARA recognizedinForbes MiddleEast2024List
This recognition underscores the crucial role that international companies play in shaping the economic, technological, and social landscapes of the MENA region.
This year’s list features 104 executives from 100 companies, with 55% based in the U.S. and representing 30 sectors. The technology sector leads, followed by pharmaceuticals and automotive industries. Executives come from 40 nationalities, with Lebanon at the forefront, followed by India, the U K , and France Congratulations to Ismail on this well-deserved honor!
TURNING THE TIDE
Irina Zaparozhets, President and General Manager for Eli Lilly Suisse S A in the META region is driving expansion, focusing on innovation and patient-centric care
As she navigates regional challenges, her commitment to expanding access to medicine remains at the forefront.
expandscoding schooltoAzerbaijan
We are thrilled to announce that our Board Member, Roula Droubi, shared exciting news about Boeing, a Presidents Club member,expandingtheirsuccessfulcodingschooltoAzerbaijan in Central Asia! This initiative reflects Boeing's commitment to fostering technological education and innovation in the region Staytunedformoreupdatesonthisfantasticdevelopment!
Congratulations to P&G and all involved on another successful Access Program round! We're proud to see our member driving impactfulinitiativesthatempowerEmiratistudents.
Lookingforwardtomoregreatcollaborations!
Fike Corporation Partners with Heriot-Watt University Dubai to Launch Groundbreaking BESS Safety Curriculum
July 16, 2024
In an exciting development for the energy sector, Fike Corporation has announced a partnership with Heriot-Watt University’s Dubai Campus to introduce a pioneering curriculum dedicated to the safety of battery energy storage systems (BESS) This initiative aims to tackle critical safety challenges, particularly the risks associated with cascading thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries
Heriot-Watt University, renowned as Dubai’s largest international university, hosts the Solar Innovation Lab powered by rooftop solar panels and a BESS. With Fike's advanced #FikeBlue solution now safeguarding the university’s BESS the first in the Middle East and North Africa students will have unprecedented access to protected systems. This initiative not only enhances their educational offerings but also establishes Heriot-Watt as a regional leader in demonstrating and educating on industry-best practices for BESS and EV charging stations.
Click HERE to read more about FikeBlue.
UAE:
From trainee to bank CEO, Emirati woman shares how she 'made the impossible possible'
September 28, 2024
Emirati Leader Shamsa Al Falasi Inspires Future Generations as a Mentor.
Shamsa Al Falasi, the CEO of a multinational bank's franchise in the UAE, is paving the way for young Emirati women as a dedicated mentor Once a fresh graduate and intern at the same bank, Al Falasi has broken the glass ceiling in a traditionally maledominated industry, inspiring many young women to pursue their career aspirations
With two decades of career growth behind her, Al Falasi attributes her success to her unwavering commitment to continuous learning. Her personal journey serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance and education can lead to remarkable achievements. As a role model, she encourages the next generation of Emirati women to embrace opportunities and aim high in their careers.
Ourspecialindustrygroupsmeetregularlyto identifyissues,formulateactionitemsandreport resultstorespectivegovernmententities
Positionpaperswillbeaddressedtotherelevantgoverningbodiesin ordertofacilitatechangeandreform.
Ifyouareacompanyandwouldliketogetinvolvedpleasecontact usat:communications@amchamdubai.org
AI Integration & Technology
Our focus is on fostering best practices in AI implementation, enhancing the local technology ecosystem, and advocating for data protection and sovereignty. Through workshops, regulatory outreach, and thought leadership, we aim to enable responsible innovation, supporting businesses as they navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and data management.
Committee Chairs
The AI Integration and Technology Committee at AmCham Dubai brings together technology experts and business professionals from across all sectors with a shared interest in AI and emerging technologies. By promoting public-private collaboration, the committee drives growth and knowledgesharing across industries, helping build a strong business environment. Position papers will be addressed to the relevant governing bodies in order to facilitate change and reform.
If you are a company and would like to get involved please contact us at: communications@amchamdubai.org
PHIL MARLOWE
American Brands Forum Committee
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.
Intellectualpropertyrightsand enforcement,suchascounterfeiting, piracy,andillegitimatetrade
Developandcoordinateeffortswithlaw enforcementagenciesonlobbying engagements,andadvocacycampaigns
Strategicallyconductcapacitybuilding& trainingprograms
AmCham Dubai ABF Strengthens Business Ties and IP Protection in the Middle East
August14,2024
AmCham Dubai’s American Brands Forum Committee, FMCG Working Group, and Pharma Gulf recently engaged in a strategic dialogue with the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) to represent U.S. companies in the region.
The discussions focused on critical challenges related to intellectual property protection and enforcement in the Middle East.
Participants identified actionable strategies to enhance IP frameworks, aiming to safeguard innovation and strengthen trade relations
This collaborative effort underscores a commitment to fostering a thriving environment for innovation and commerce in the region
P r e s e n t :
Michael Ratney
U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia
Abdulaziz Alswailem
CEO Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property
Rasha Hamdy Abdelmagid US IP Specialist (MENA)
Christopher Hilotin
ABF Co-Chair, Apple
Heba Elmalawani
ABF Member, Procter & Gamble
Rania Ashraf
Director Government Affairs' and Policy GCC, The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson
Malek HANNOUF
BPG Chairman
Officers from SAIP
Representatives from the US Embassy Virtual attendance of other AmCham Dubai & ABF members
F&B Regulations Committee
The Food and 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.
Committee Chairs
The committee seeks to create a favorable regulatory environment in the GCC for U.S. companies based in the UAE, enabling long term business success and continuity in the region.
change and reform.
If you are a company and would like to get involved please contact us at: communications@amchamdubai.org
F&B REGULATIONS COMMITTEE
The F&B Regulations Committee
introduced a roadmap to establish itself as a best-in-class trade association.
June13,2024
This involves strengthening relationships with academia, professional societies, government agencies, and other trade associations.
The committee aims to enhance collaboration with food regulators and other governmental bodies.
Notable external engagements include sponsoring key local and regional events such as the Dubai International Food Safety Conference and the USDA Nutrition Summit. Committee members also participate in national regulatory committees like the Gulf Standard Organization and the National Codex Alimentarius Committees .
Collaboration with national codex Alimentarius in near east!
Exemplary Partnership; Public Sector, Academia, and Industry, contributing expertise on local, regional and global scales.
Health Sector Committee
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.
Position
in order to facilitate change and reform.
If you are a company and would like to get involved please contact us at: communications@amchamdubai.org
SAMIA KANAWATI
AmCham Dubai
Health Sector
Committee Engages with Dubai Health Authority
The AmCham Dubai Health Sector Committee (HSC) held a productive meeting on September 6 at the P&G offices in Jumeirah Emirates Towers.
The committee welcomed Dr. Osama Elhassan, a Health Informatics Specialist at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), who delivered an insightful overview of the digital health regulatory landscape in the UAE
Dr. Elhassan highlighted key aspects of health data laws and the digital transformation initiatives led by UAE health authorities. The discussion emphasized the vital role of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving innovation and fostering a resilient healthcare ecosystem.
AmCham Dubai looks forward to ongoing engagement with DHA and other stakeholders to advance healthcare initiatives in the region
Congratulations to AmCham Dubai Healthcare Leaders!
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our AmCham Dubai members recognized in the recent Forbes Middle East article celebrating trailblazers in the healthcare industry. Your dedication to innovation and excellence is truly inspiring.
Through your invaluable
Health Sector Committee, you play a
role in advancing healthcare solutions and making a
impact in the region
we are shaping the future of
Thank
and beyond
Human Resources Committee
The Human 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.
An initiative by AmCham Dubai's HR Committee, in partnership with Majlis Al Amal and Al Jalila Foundation
Join us in helping women revive their careers and thrive in their next professional chapter! This is your chance to make a lasting impact, improve your workplace culture, and gain access to skilled talent.
About the Program
Revive & Thrive is designed to support women who have taken a career break to focus on their health and well-being, offering a pathway to re-enter the workforce with confidence and support
Revive & THRIVE A
Women’s Career Journey
Why should women join?
PaidReturnships(3-6months)
Engageinmeaningfulprojectswith flexibleworkarrangements
Mentorship
Receiveguidancefromexperienced professionals
Training&Development
Participateinworkshopstoenhance skillsandprepareforcareergrowth.
Why should companies join?
Enhance employee engagement and diversity
Demonstrate leadership in corporate social responsibility (CSR)
Support women in re-entering the workforce
About our Partners
Majlis Al Amal: A community center dedicated to female cancer patients, providing support and resources during their healing journey.
Al Jalila Foundation: A not-for-profit organization focused on transforming lives through medical research, education, and treatment in the UAE
Sustainability & ESG Committee
Sustainability & ESG 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).
Committee Chairs
communications@amchamdubai.org
AmCham Dubai Sustainability & ESG Committee highlights
key initiatives
September 2, 2024 - IBM Office DIC
On September 2, 2024, the AmCham Dubai Sustainability & ESG Committee convened at IBM's office in Dubai Internet City.
Key discussions focused on engaging youth in sustainability efforts and IBM's innovative approach to sustainability through AI and data management
Upcoming events like the World Green Economy Summit were highlighted, along with the UNGC Open House, which involves over 240 companies in the UAE aligning corporate strategies with the UNGC’s Ten Principles.
Participants shared how adopting these principles has driven internal change and strategic benefits, emphasizing the importance of resilience in business
The meeting also featured insights from COP and the role of AI in green technology, stressing the need for private-sector collaboration and youth involvement Together, we are shaping a future where sustainability is a core business strategy, creating lasting impact for generations.
For more information on the UNGC Open House, contact events@amchamdubai.org.
Featured Insights for Sustainability
Click the photo to view the page details.
IBM’s commitment emphasizes the integration of sustainability into core business strategies, helping organizations meet regulatory requirements and achieve long-term environmental goals.
announces progressinclimate commitment
We are inspired by Mars as they tackle one of the most significant challenges of our era: climate change.
Weareinspiredbyourmember,Marsastheytackleone of the most significant challenges of our era: climate change
The company has pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissionsby50%by2030&aimsfornetzeroby2050.
In their recently released 2023 Sustainable in a Generation Report, Mars highlights notable progress, having reduced absolute GHG emissions by 16% across their value chain since 2015, all while growing their businessbyover60%
Learn more about Mars' climate actions and their journeytonetzerohere.
SUSTAINABILITY MIDDLE EAST
The Convergence of AI and Sustainability: A Strategic Imperative for Business Leaders
By Jonathan Hirasawa Ashton, Head of Marketing and Communications, KROHNE
In the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility, sustainability has transitioned from a peripheral concern to a central tenet of business strategy As a senior corporate affairs professional with a deep interest in the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability, I have observed firsthand how these two forces are reshaping industries....
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Hosts GreenTech 3.0 Business Delegation to the UAE
Building on the momentum from COP28, theU.S.ChamberofCommerceconvened U.S.businessleadersandkeyEmiratiand U.S. government officials for the third GreenTech Business Delegation to the UAEfromSeptember9-11,2024.
This initiative highlights the Chamber's commitmenttopromotingsustainablegrowth throughpartnershipsacrosskeyindustries.
Duringthedelegation,participantsengagedin high-level meetings with stakeholders in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, blending business networking opportunities with cultural exchanges.
As a proud supporting partner, AmCham Dubai was thrilled to spotlight Mohammed Ibrahim Mohammed of DMCC, one of our key members, who showcased the strategic advantages and opportunities within the DMCC ecosystem This collaboration continues to strengthen ties and drive innovation in the region.
VOTING IN 2024 U.S. FEDERAL ELECTIONS
Yourvotecounts!
Voter registration deadlines vary by state. Some states require voters to be registered 30 days before an election. Check the Federal Voting Assistance Program website (www.FVAP.gov) to find more information on the deadline in your state. Whether you are a first-time voter or have voted absentee in previous elections, you should complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) each year to ensure you are able to participate in elections as an overseas absentee voter.
If you have already completed a FPCA in 2024, you should soon receive your blank ballot, or instructions for how to access your ballot Please check your state’s voter registration verification website, or contact your local election office, to check the status of your absentee ballot request Using the FPCA ensures that your state will send your ballot to you at least 45 days before the election
Once you have completed your ballot, you can return it to your local election officials free of charge by dropping it off at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate or mail it directly at your own expense. Transit time to the United States can take up to 20 days. We recommend returning your ballot as soon as possible – and no later than October 4.
ABSENTEE VOTING WEEK:
October 1 – October 8
You can drop off your completed FPCA or completed ballot for delivery to the United States via diplomatic pouch free of charge You can get voting assistance from the Embassy or Consulate or drop off your completed voting forms and ballots, addressed to your local election officials, during the following hours:
Abu Dhabi: U.S. citizens wishing to drop off completed ballots can do so inside the entrance to the Embassy’s Consular Section on Safarat Street between 8:00 am and 2:30 pm Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 am to 10:30 a.m. on Fridays. Please bring identification and inform the guard you would like to drop off voting materials The guard will show you to the drop-box where you can leave your completed ballot package
Dubai: U.S. citizens wishing to drop off completed ballots can do so at the Consulate General’s consular entrance on Al Seef Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 a m to 11 a m on Fridays. Please bring identification and inform the guard you would like to drop off voting materials The guard will show you to the drop-box where you can leave your completed ballot package
Please note that election materials only need to contain sufficient U.S. postage or be placed in a postage-paid envelope. Printable postage-paid envelope templates are available on FVAP’s website. Also note that normal transit time from the UAE to the United States is four weeks.
HELP SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT OVERSEAS VOTING
Please help spread the word to your friends, family, and colleagues that US citizens overseas may be eligible to vote from wherever they are Now is the time.
If you have never voted while overseas before, it’s not too late. The process is easy--just follow these steps:
1
Complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)
The FPCA allows you to register to vote and request your absentee ballots in one step If you submit an FPCA, your local election officials will send you an absentee ballot for all elections for federal offices (presidential and state primaries, run-off, special, and the November general elections) that take place that calendar year.
Local election officials in all U.S. states and territories accept the FPCA.
The online voting assistant available at FVAP.gov is an easy way to complete the FPCA It will ask you questions specific to your state and tell you if electronic ballot delivery is possible. We encourage you to request that your ballot be sent to you electronically Be sure to include your email address The online voting assistant will generate a printable FPCA for you to print and sign.
3
2
Submit the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)
You can return your FPCA to your local election officials free of charge via the nearest embassy or consulate Please drop your FPCA or ballot off at the Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate in Dubai as described previously in this message. You may also choose to mail it directly to your local election officials at your own expense Some states allow voters to submit the FPCA via email as well.
See FVAP’s Voting Assistance Guide for specifics on all states
4
Receive Your Ballot
After submitting your FPCA, most states have an online portal where you can confirm your registration and ballot delivery information States are required to send ballots 45 days before an election for federal office to any overseas US citizen who has completed an FPCA
Return Your Ballot
As with the FPCA, you can return your voted ballot to your local election officials free of charge via the nearest embassy or consulate or mail it directly at your own expense Please note that transit time can take up to 20 days We recommend returning your ballot as soon as possible – and no later than October 4
Please note that a friend or family member can drop off your election materials at the embassy or consulate on your behalf, if needed
Some states also accept completed ballots via email. See FVAP’s Voting Assistance Guide for more details on your state.
Your Vote Counts!
ManyU.S.electionsaredecidedbyasmallnumberofvotes.Allstatesarerequiredtocounteveryabsenteeballotas longasitisvalidandreacheslocalelectionofficialsbythestate’sabsenteeballotreceiptdeadline. Toreceiveinformationbyemailaboutelectiondatesanddeadlines,subscribetoFVAP'sVotingAlerts(vote@fvapgov) FVAPalsosharesVotingAlertsviaFacebookandTwitter
Ifyouhaveanyquestionsaboutregisteringtovoteoverseasorhowtoreturnyourelectionmaterials,pleasecontact Abu Dhabi’s Voting Assistance Officer at VoteABUDHABI@state.gov or contact Dubai’s Voting Assistance Officer at VoteDUBAI@stategov
On September 16, 2024, the Department of State launched a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).Tocontinuereceivingalerts,re-enrollatstep.state.gov.
Appointment Program Business Visa
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).
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
The Procedure
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
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.
A Warm Welcome to Our New Members
VICE PRESIDENT
AMERICAN BUSINESS
UAE BUSINESS
UAE HOTEL
When you join the AmCham Dubai you are joining a diverse and collaborative membership organization working together to make Dubai & the Northern Emirates the best place for business to thrive.
