Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of three chambers operating under Dubai Chambers, has unveiled the launch of a new Events Business Group aimed at connecting the emirate’s companies and entities operating within the events sector to promote dialogue, policy change and cement Dubai’s position as a world-leading events destination.

Launching the new business group is in line with the Chamber’s plans to increase the number of business groups that represent economic sectors and activities in the Emirate of Dubai, and ultimately, to ensure all industries and economic activities are represented to boost their competitiveness and drive Dubai’s sustainable development.

Maha AlGargawi, Executive Director of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, said: “We are delighted to launch the Events Business Group which is further recognition of the importance of this industry to Dubai’s economy. Dubai Expo 2020 and various other global events hosted in the emirate have positioned Dubai as global events destination that is strategically located to offer businesses the global connectivity they need along with a world-class infrastructure and touristic attractions.

“The new group will be instrumental in supporting UAE events, allowing the sector’s companies to thrive and drive Dubai’s economic agenda. This is in line with our agenda to expand business groups as they play an important role in promoting and supporting economic growth in Dubai; they are a key component of our business community and contribute to advancing commercial and investment activity in the emirate.”

The Events Business Group aims to promote the development of UAE-based companies operating in the events industry to raise the profile of group members in the international business community and leverage the UAE’s position as a world leading events hub.

Commenting on the establishment of the new business group, Paul Berger, CEO of Arena Event Services Group and one of the founding members of the new business group, said, “The representation of the events sector within Dubai Chamber of Commerce is an important step in providing a forum which facilitates mutual dialogue between government entities and group members on policy matters of importance to this industry, and to domestic and international trade and investment.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Khalid Alhammadi, Vice President of Live Events at DXB Live and one of the founding members of the new group, added, “The Events Business Group plays a crucial role in providing members with a platform to exchange information and experiences as well as communicate and interact with public and private entities on policy matters, business growth opportunities and connections with international events organizers.”

The establishment of new business groups is part of the chamber’s plan to develop the private sector’s contribution to sustainable development and boost the business community’s competitiveness. Earlier this year, the Chamber announced its aim to increase the economic sectors and activities represented by business groups to 100 by March 2023.