UAE growth backed by business leaders
Business leaders from various sectors, including aviation, tourism, logistics, real estate, and financial services, expressed confidence in the UAE’s long-term growth prospects despite regional uncertainty.
Amit Nayak, Vice President of HAMA MEA, stated, “Always bet on the UAE. The resilience of the UAE is here to stay.”
Rabih Fakhreddine, Founder and CEO of 7 Management, echoed this sentiment, saying his business remains focused on expansion, and they are doubling down and expanding, unconcerned about headlines, as they know where this city and this country is going in the next five to 10 years.
Executives cited resilience, adaptability, leadership, and a commitment to long-term strategy as reasons for their optimism, and they remain confident in the UAE’s ability to continue growing.
Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths pointed to the strength of Dubai’s long-term strategy, saying it will get them to a “fantastic place,” and Kerry Healy, Chief Commercial Officer at Accor, highlighted confidence in the market and leadership as defining themes.
Several executives noted the level of optimism among attendees, with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority CEO Phillipa Harrison saying businesses should focus on available opportunities, and Allsopp & Allsopp CEO Lewis Allsopp highlighted the importance of planning beyond immediate challenges.
The UAE has demonstrated a strong ability to adapt and continue investing in future growth, with DHL Global Forwarding Middle East and Africa CEO Tobias Maier citing confidence in the UAE’s response.
Some executives argued that periods of uncertainty often create opportunities for those willing to take a long-term view, with DAMAC Properties Head of Development Dr Mohammad Baydoun saying challenges create opportunities, and Remo Abbondandolo, General Manager MENA at Checkout.com, summed up the prevailing mood, saying “Events are back and the UAE never stops.”
They remain confident in the country’s long-term growth prospects, citing resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to long-term strategy, as the UAE continues to handle regional uncertainty.
The UAE’s strong leadership and long-term strategy are key factors in its resilience, and they will drive growth in the future.
In terms of the real estate sector, the UAE is experiencing growth, with companies like Walker & Dunlop expanding their presence in the region.
As the UAE looks to the future, business leaders are optimistic about the country’s prospects, and they are confident that the UAE will continue to grow and adapt in the face of challenges.
Related: Walker & Dunlop taps Wells Fargo MD for European capital markets buildout
