Corporate leaders to meet at DIFC

Dubai: Global and regional business leaders will debate the key issues faced by businesses in the region during the four-day DIFC Week, the Dubai International Financial Centre's (DIFC) annual programme of conferences, that begins on Sunday.

Issues in focus will be the impact of the current financial turmoil and the ability of the Middle East region to manage the implications and opportunities of the slump.

DIFC Week consists of a Family Business Summit, a two-day forum and a conference.

Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of DIFC and Vice-Chairman of the UAE Central Bank, said: "DIFC Week could not come at a more relevant time. With the current financial crisis, it is crucial that we bring together the top figures in business and finance to share their perspectives on how best to manage the challenges faced by this region and the opportunities that will arise in the future."

Mohammad Al Abbar, Member of the Dubai Executive Council and Chairman of Emaar Properties, will deliver the keynote address tomorrow morning.

"Dubai is not immune to the problems caused by the global financial crisis but this region is better placed than most to deal with the issues arising. What is clear is that, for those who can make a strong and speedy recovery, there will be an abundance of opportunities for investment and growth," he said.

Huge participation

The event will have over 70 speakers from the world's major international markets, 21 separate sessions, and a televised debate on how to get confidence back in the global financial markets.

Dr Josef Ackermann, Chairman of the Management Board and the Group Executive Committee of Deutsche Bank, said: "The Middle East has always played an important role on the international economic scene and its influence is set to rise as it emerges as an increasingly influential player on the financial scene as well."

Topics to be discussed at the four-day event include growth strategies, opportunities and major challenges for family businesses both locally and internationally.

The economic outlook for the world and the Gulf Cooperation Council in 2009, attracting foreign investment and human capital in the Arab world, and the practicalities of establishing operations in Dubai will also form part of the discussions.