Today marked the end of the 4th edition of the Connect World CEO Forum in Dubai, UAE. The three day event started on March 17th at the Jumeriah Beach Conference Centre.
Although the event faced possible cancellation due to the global economic crisis as well as lack of corporate sponsorship, the organizers felt it was important to proceed with the event. They wanted to reinforce their belief that the Middle East remains a “great place to do business.” And last minute sponsorship was provided by the Bahrain Economic Development Board as well as earlier sponsors the US Export Council and Tejari.
The stated mission of the event is to bring “together executives from all over the world to meet key principals in the GCC region in order to explore and expand business opportunities and access Gulf capital.” More than fifteen countries sent representatives to this year’s event.
Dubai has recently begun to feel the effects of the global slowdown. Tourist numbers are declining and construction of many large developments has been postponed or even stopped. The business hotels Dubai welcome events such as this Forum which not only bring immediate business to the area, but encourage future partnerships and ongoing relationships between foreign corporations and local companies.
Some of the topics covered during the forum included “How to Save Your Way Out of the Financial Crisis” and “Doing Business with the Obama Adminstration.” Networking and sharing information and insight are top priorities for attendees.
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