Canadian businesswomen and leaders' delegation visit TECOM Investments

The delegation, which was received by Abdullatif Almulla, CEO of TECOM Investments, discussed potential collaboration between the two entities. The Canadian team included members from academia, business, government and non-governmental as well as civil society organizations.

Almulla highlighted TECOM Investments' leading role in successfully contributing to developing a knowledge-based economy in Dubai.

He said: "As a global entity, the TECOM Investments' business model has driven substantial international interest, especially from organizations in developed western economies. This year alone, we have received over 20 delegations from various countries, expressing keen interest in the dynamics of our free zone clusters and its contribution to Dubai and the regional economies.
"In addition to recognizing TECOM Investments' local and overseas expansion initiatives that significantly impact Dubai's growth, the Canadian delegation also explored common investment opportunities."

The UAE is Canada's largest export market in the Middle East. Canada's exports to the UAE reached Dhs2.87bn (CAD$787m) in 2006, an increase of 33.89 per cent over 2005.

More than 12,000 Canadians are working in the UAE, with over 30 companies operating in the construction and ancillary industries. Around 2,000 Emirati students are pursuing further education in Canadian universities.

A total of 115 Canadian companies are active in the UAE, and more than 40 Canadian companies from the oil and gas sector supply equipment or services to the energy industry in the UAE and the Gulf region.

The delegates expressed their appreciation for the warm welcome afforded by TECOM Investments and highlighted the potential business ties that can emerge from such important trade missions. They also underscored that in today's global economy, establishing an international footprint is a prerequisite for success, and Canadian business leaders should take advantage of every opportunity to gain a foothold in major markets such as the Middle East.

The visit of the Canadian businesswomen and leaders to TECOM Investments is part of an initiative led by Women Engaging in Bridge Building organization (WEBB). The group is active in building bridges across diverse cultures and faiths.