In recognition of the importance that Dubai holds in the global trade and investment arena, the International Chambers of Commerce (ICC) held a gala ceremony to commemorate 100 years of its existence.

During the event, Dubai Chamber officially announced that preparations for the 12^th World Chambers Congress 2021 are underway.

The ceremony, which was held at the Bulgari Hotel, was attended by H.E Hamad Buamim, President & CEO, Dubai Chamber and Chairman of the World Chambers Federation, H.E Mohammed Ahmed Bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Undersecretary for Economic Affairs, Ministry of Economy,  UAE, Mr. John W.H. Denton AO, Secretary General, ICC and Mr. Chris Mead, President,  Magicians of Main Street.

ICC, founded in 1919, the institutional representative of 45 million companies, is the world’s largest business organisation and has played a crucial role as a catalyst of trade.. ICC believes that strengthening commercial ties among nations is not only good for business, but also for improving global living standards, reducing inequalities and maintaining peace, a belief that Dubai shares.

H.E Al Shehhi, in his special address, spoke about how the UAE identifies with these beliefs of ICC and has drawn inspiration from the organisation in promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.

Talking about the UAE economy, he mentioned that the Government remains committed to innovation and building a knowledge-based competitive economy. Part of this strategy focuses on expanding our country’s ties with economies, which offer new trade and investment opportunities and breaking down trade barriers.

During his welcome speech, H.E Buamim mentioned that ICC’s decision to choose Dubai as a preferred location for celebrating its Centennial reflects the emirate’s reputation as a global business hub and a supporter of ICC’s values aimed at providing a stimulating and conducive environment for businesses to thrive.

H.E Buamim shed light on the 12^th World Chambers Congress, which will be held from 23-25 February 2021. The Congress will take a closer look at how these chambers can adopt Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies and adjust their value proposition for the tech-savvy members.

“The Congress, under the theme, ‘Chamber 4.0 – Generation Next’, will give the chambers a chance to rethink their priorities and to find new solutions to removing trade barriers,” Buamim said.

He also highlighted that the WCC will coincide with Expo 2020, offering   the opportunity to explore innovative and sustainable solutions for businesses.

During his panel discussion, John Denton said: “ICC’s centenary year has shone a spotlight on our fundamental commitment to helping businesses everywhere co-create a more inclusive and sustainable future. Through our global network, we will continue to drive the opportunities that will enable business, communities and the next generations.”

ICC’s Centennial Declaration sets out a new programme of commitments to meet the challenges that will shape the next 100 years, with the aim to modernize the global trading system, provide effective alternate dispute resolution mechanisms and to bolster trust in digital technologies.