Dubai Businesses Expand US Ties at New York Forum

Dubai’s private sector is taking bold steps to expand trade and investment links with the United States, as showcased at the Dubai Business Forum – USA in New York. The event, part of Dubai Chambers’ largest overseas business delegation, offered a dynamic platform for companies to explore new partnerships and cooperation opportunities.

Business leaders highlighted the strategic importance of the US market for Dubai’s growth ambitions. Shehab Gargash, CEO of Gargash Group, emphasized that the recently opened Dubai Chambers office in New York strengthens Dubai’s global economic network and offers UAE companies direct access to leading US institutions.

“The forum provides a space for direct engagement with major companies, enhancing commercial relations and paving the way for future collaboration,” Gargash said. He noted that his group is increasingly focused on digital transformation and artificial intelligence developments as part of its growth strategy.

Matar Almehairi, CEO of Meerana Information Technology, stressed that partnerships supported by Dubai Chambers create broad prospects for the UAE’s technology and AI sector. He highlighted that the US market, with its advanced digital infrastructure and expertise, is ideal for attracting skilled talent to strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem. Almehairi added that Emirati talent is now globally competitive and poised to drive the UAE’s artificial intelligence initiatives.

For Al Rais Investment Group, the forum facilitated engagement with investors and companies in logistics, shipping, and AI technology, supporting the growth of non-oil trade between the UAE and the US. Mohamed Jassim Al Rais highlighted ongoing partnerships with global AI firms, signaling a focus on technology-driven investment alongside tourism, a key sector for Dubai’s economy.

Talabat’s Senior Director, May Youssef, shared that the company’s UAE base offers access to global talent, advanced logistics, and a regulatory environment conducive to rapid technological adoption. The firm’s grocery and retail delivery segment has grown 40 percent, providing opportunities for international suppliers to enter the UAE market through digital platforms. Youssef noted that Talabat’s 2024 Dubai Financial Market listing, valued at around $10 billion, reflects the company’s robust growth and commitment to positioning Dubai as a hub for digital trade.

The Dubai Business Forum – USA highlights the UAE’s ambition to integrate global expertise, cutting-edge technology, and innovative talent into its economic framework, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leading hub for trade and digital business.