Day: November 22, 2021

DUBAI, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, Monday received Bruno Le Maire, France’s Minister of Economy and Finance, at Expo 2020.

Sheikh Maktoum and the French Minister discussed ways of boosting business and commerce between the two nations within the framework of the UAE and France’s strategic partnership.

The French minister praised the UAE’s accomplishments in various sectors that have raised its regional and global position. He also congratulated Dubai for organising an exceptional Expo 2020 Dubai.

The meeting was attended by Mohamed Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy; and Younis Haji Al Khoori, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Finance.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI, Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA) has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Export Bahrain, establishing frameworks for technical collaboration to support their joint efforts in institutional development, facilitating business activities, supporting companies and their plans for growth and expansion and exchanging information and expertise.

Amna Lootah, Assistant Director-General of DAFZA; and Safa Abdulkhaliq, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Export Bahrain, signed the agreement. It seeks to encourage the two countries’ companies to expand joint trade relations, in addition to enhancing bilateral cooperation in the fields of innovation and entrepreneurship, exchanging expertise and best practices, and facilitating access to technologies, markets and business networks.

The agreement grants Export Bahrain access to the global companies that set up headquarters in Dubai Airport Freezone to support Bahraini exporters according to a framework established by the agreement. It will grant DAFZA access to the companies supported by Export Bahrain to work towards improving the companies’ relations with their counterparts in DAFZA and exchange information, services, and offers.

In addition, the two sides will cooperate to organise activities, workshops, seminars, and conferences to support establishing relations between companies, in addition to cooperating in research and development and other relevant fields.

Lootah said that this agreement is a new and special addition to the relations between the UAE and Bahrain, and underlines the commitment of DAFZA and Export Bahrain to provide local and international companies supported by the two sides with quality services. It facilitates for the companies a network of relations and partnerships, helping them to expand in target markets, and access the largest possible client and consumer base.

“This agreement is also the cornerstone of strategic cooperation that benefits both sides and their short and long-term goals. It serves as a starting point for active cooperation that strengthens the offers provided by DAFZA and Export Bahrain, particularly during the next stage which will witness recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on economic sectors,” she added.

Abdulkhaliq, in turn, stated, “The signing of this MoU with DAFZA comes within our strategic plans to continue creating a network of strong relationships with key regional and international partners, to advance SME operations by providing them access to additional facilitation and potential growth opportunities. The Memorandum permits SME exporters based in Bahrain to capitalise on the supportive facilities offered by DAFZA, such as its business-friendly environment, world-class infrastructure, tax exemptions and more, to meet their regional and global exporting aspirations. A This step, she said, provides a framework that will allow both sides to implement an integrated practice for enabling companies in each party’s jurisdiction to grow their businesses in the region and beyond.

This agreement is one in a series penned by DAFZA recently, all of which seek to expand the free zone’s network of partners around the world and its portfolio of services. The agreements showcase the added value and benefits provided to customers, thereby bolstering the reputation of DAFZA as having one of the most advanced, flexible, and active business environments in the region and the world.

Export Bahrain continues its efforts to support non-oil exports by expanding its business development services, by providing a package of high-quality services and solutions to help companies reach foreign markets and to help develop and diversify Bahraini products.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI, Dubai is set to host the 12th World Chambers Congress (12WCC) Tuesday at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, with the three-day event that explores the challenges and opportunities being presented for business chambers in a world that the global pandemic has irrevocably altered.

Organised by Dubai Chamber, the International Chamber of Commerce, and its World Chambers Federation, the latest edition of the congress is particularly significant as it is the first to be held in the wake of COVID-19 and will help direct chambers of commerce in a post-pandemic future.

The congress is attracting more than 1,000 participants from over 100 countries, with 80 expert speakers and 40 panel discussions, presentations and workshops all focused on the role of chambers of commerce in a new digital era. The forum will provide participants with the opportunity to discuss the global trade movement and the economy after an unprecedented period of downturn and new challenges created by Covid-19.

Over the conference’s three days, delegates will participate in interactive sessions examining topics of common interest, including the digital revolution, global economic variables, and the role that chambers of commerce need to play during the next phase of global economic recovery.

Also in the spotlight is the growing role of public-private partnerships (PPPs), health and safety standards, business resilience, preparedness for crises and future risks, logistical support for business in light of the new realities, and identifying the necessary tools to facilitate investment in the post-pandemic stage.

The congress is the largest event of its kind providing. A platform for chamber leaders to share knowledge, network and adopt best international practices. Dubai won the bid to host the congress in 2018, based on a proposal submitted by Dubai Chamber.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI, Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, CEO of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Director General of Dubai Customs received in his office a delegation from the Dominican Republic who has paid a visit to Dubai Customs’ main building to learn about best practices applied in inspection division.

Mahmood Al Bastaki, COO of Dubai Trade-DP World, Mansoor Al Malik, executive director for policies and legislation Division and a number of director and heads of customs departments attended the meeting.

The delegation included Giulio Kastanos, Ambassador of Dominican Republic to the UAE, and Edwardu Sans Luvaton, Director General of Dominican Customs.

“Dubai Customs unique and outstanding experience in developing break-through services and innovations has become a worldwide model,” said Musabih. “We seek to enhance cooperation with other countries that work on developing their customs sector. We discussed means of further trade cooperation between Dubai and the Dominican Republic.”

Adel Al Suwaidi, Director of Technician Support Department delivered a presentation on Siyaj (fence); the border protection project. It features advanced surveillance cameras that cover the customs area and radars and sensors to monitor goods and persons traffic. Advanced AI technologies, drones and advanced boats equipped with all technologies to intercept and detect any suspected shipments have considerably facilitated inspection processes.

“Dubai Customs inspectors join different workshops and training programmes on types of drugs and how to thwart different smuggling attempts, which equip them with the right skills of body language and how to differentiate types of drugs,” said Al Suwaidi.

Falah Khalil Al Sammak, senior manager of DXB Terminal 2 delivered a presentation on iDeclare system, which enables passengers easily declare their personal goods while travelling through Dubai Airports. The second release of the smart iDeclare App operates with AI features which enable the app recognise goods to be declared through just photographing them and will provide the HS Code and duties specified for them instantly.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI, Dubai International Content Market – DICM, re-opens its doors with a new and improved structure that will allow the media and entertainment industry to reconnect face to face and provide a platform for attendees to meet, connect and network.

Held from 24th – 25th November at Jumeirah Beach Hotel Conference Centre, this year’s edition will feature over 55 companies exhibiting from more than 20 countries, including Russia – Roskino, South Korea – NIPA, Spain – ICEX and Turkey – ICC, as well as regional producers with vast genres to offer.

During the pandemic, the world has witnessed a major lockdown which resulted in families and individuals bonding over online broadcasting services such Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, SHAHID, STARZPLAY, WatchIt and others. This resulted in the improvement of these platforms as they saw a huge demand for quality content that accommodates the new generations. Social media channels also witnessed a major rise in the consumption time meaning due to the closure, users have been using social media more often as millennials are more vocal on these networking apps and are seeking content that they can relate to.

DICM also provides a dedicated marketplace for buying, selling, networking, financing and distributing entertainment content across all platforms and categories, including TV, Film and Digital thus making it the perfect hub to expand the field of media purchasing.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Abu Dhabi, The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) and Dubai Industrial City (DI), one of the largest industrial hubs in the region, have signed a deal designed to further enhance the UAE’s industrial sector while facilitating decarbonisation efforts.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on the first day of the Global Manufacturing and Industrialisation Summit which is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and Ruler of Dubai at Expo 2020 Dubai.

It focused on three core elements, including enabling the UAE’s Industry 4.0 program, attracting foreign investors as part of “Make It In The Emirates” campaign, and facilitating decarbonization across the industrial sector. The partnership’s objectives are in line with the UAE’s industrial strategy, which aims to develop the nation’s industrial sector and raise its contribution to the GDP.

The deal, which was witnessed by Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry & Advanced Technology, Sarah Al Amiri, UAE Minister of State for Advanced Technology, Malek Sultan Al Malek, Director General of Dubai Development Authority and Group Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Asset Management (DHAM). The MOU was signed by Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary at MoIAT, and Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Commercial Officer at Dubai Holding Asset Management (DHAM).

Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary at MoIAT, said: “Public sector collaborations are a key part of the various programs the Ministry is leading to elevate the UAE’s industrial sector. This latest partnership focuses on areas that will be crucial to enhancing the competitiveness of the country and turning the UAE into a sustainable, attractive global industrial hub. We look forward to a fruitful and productive relationship with our partners at Dubai Industrial City.”

Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Commercial Officer at Dubai Holding Asset Management (DHAM), said: “The UAE continues reinforcing its status as a global leader and innovator with several ambitious initiatives such as Operation 300bn. By boosting the local manufacturing and distribution ecosystem, we will not only cement our sustainable and diverse economy, but we will be better prepared for the future, and enhance the UAE’s competitiveness and attractiveness as a global manufacturing and trade hub.”

He commented, “Dubai Industrial City, is at the forefront of economic development over nearly the past two decades, and we are constantly raising the bar for best-in-class business ecosystems that attract both companies and talent from all over the world. The industrial sector plays a critical role in our portfolio, and we are committed to cementing the reputation of products made in the UAE and support the export of quality products.”

Saud Abu Alshawareb, Managing Director of Dubai Industrial City, said, “We are proud to partner with the Ministry to facilitate the UAE’s agenda boosting the industrial sector. By pooling together our expertise, resources and extensive networks, we hope to realise our visionary leadership’s proactive strategy to put the UAE at the forefront of global manufacturing and distribution, while securing a diversified, sustainable economy.”

He added, “As one of the largest industrial hubs in the region, Dubai Industrial City plays a pivotal role in driving national industrial strategies. Our community is home to more than 750 business partners, including the world’s leading corporations, regional SMEs and disruptive start-ups. Our state-of-the-art infrastructure and comprehensive community enable collaboration and innovation, critical values to equip us for the future.”

“Covid-19 has shown us how building a robust national manufacturing and distribution strategy over the past years protected us from disruptions to the supply chain and uncertainties, especially in terms of food and medical products. By strengthening communication between different private and public entities, we create a cohesive ecosystem that addresses core needs of the industry with governmental support.”

“In our fast-changing world, speed and agility are defining factors of success,” added Abu Alshawareb. “Industry 4.0 will allow the UAE’s manufacturing sector to stand out globally for its flexibility, future-readiness and overall attractiveness. For Dubai Industrial City, our focus will be to further invest in cutting-edge infrastructure that widely accommodates such technologies, from connectivity to advanced telecommunications.”

“We are proud of our world-class masterplan which is divided into various sector-focused zones and represents every aspect of the supply chain, from raw materials to production, manufacturing, packaging, warehousing, and logistics. Such an extensive ecosystem expands the scope for collaboration and delivers creative solutions to steer our industry forward.”

Launched in March 2021, the UAE’s industrial strategy outlines six core objectives, including enhancing the global competitiveness of local industries and stimulating innovation by accelerating the adoption of advanced technology across the industrial value chain. The MoU between the MoIAT and DI will focus on stimulating the growth of 11 critical industrial sectors, including food, beverage and agricultural technology, pharmaceuticals and electrical equipment and electronics.

The UAE’s industrial strategy is designed to better equip the nation for the future by localizing production and supply chains. By enabling advanced manufacturing, the strategy will work to increase productivity, boost the economy and create jobs, as well as develop future industries such as hydrogen, medical technology and space technology.

A key objective of the partnership is to enable the adoption of Industry 4.0 in the UAE. Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies and applications will create significant opportunities across the manufacturing and logistics supply chain. Automation, predictive analysis, artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies promise a variety of benefits.

The UAE’s industrial strategy serves to modernize industrial laws, support the adoption of renewable energy and provide flexible financing to make the UAE an increasingly attractive destination for industry.

MoIAT and DI will work to improve infrastructural appeal on par with leading markets and improve the ease of setting up and doing business. International organizations and investors can take advantage of competitive financing opportunities to establish and expand business activity in the greater region.

Continued support for ‘Make it in the Emirates’ ambitions further a need for localized factories and production facilities, providing homegrown manufactured products with a quality mark of approval recognized around the world.

MoIAT and DI will fuel the UAE’s sustainability agenda by facilitating the decarbonization of the UAE’s industrial sector. The partnership will help businesses ensure clean and green operations. Dubai Industrial City has supported several renewable energy projects in its ecosystem, contributing to national efforts to decarbonize the economy and reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Source: Emirates News Agency