Nearly 300 business leaders convene with Sheikh Hamdan to map Dubai’s economic path forward

Close to 300 of Dubai’s most senior private sector figures gathered at a specially convened Dubai Majlis to receive detailed briefings on the emirate’s economic trajectory amid the broader regional environment, with Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presiding over the session.

The forum, organised by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, formed part of the government’s ongoing effort to deepen coordination with private enterprise across key economic sectors.

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, framed the gathering as a signal of shared direction. “Under the leadership and vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and the guidance of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has built one of the world’s most resilient and future-ready economic ecosystems,” he said. “Today’s meeting sends a clear message of our shared commitment to align on the next phase, ensuring Dubai continues to move forward with confidence, stability and ambition, while promoting growth in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and reinforcing the city’s position as one of the world’s most trusted global hubs for trade, investment, tourism and innovation.”

Private briefings were delivered by Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Major General Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi, Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Defence; and Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline. Al Hashimy called for continued collective effort, commending the stability and confidence shown by the business community and the wider public.

Sir Tim Clark said Dubai’s aviation sector had shown strong adaptability, with operations steadily increasing while maintaining the highest safety standards. He noted that global travel demand through Dubai remains robust, underscoring the city’s standing as one of the world’s most important aviation hubs.

Also in attendance were Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications.

Sheikh Hamdan addressed the gathering directly: “Thanks to the vision of our wise leadership and our close partnership with the business community, Dubai continues to move forward with confidence to strengthen the resilience of its economy and reinforce its position as a global hub for trade, tourism and investment. We will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure sustainable economic growth and safeguard our development gains, further enhancing Dubai’s competitiveness.”