Executive Office head urges British businesses to play bigger role in shaping Dubai's future

Nabil Ali Alyousuf addressed members of the British Business Group (BBG) at a recent lunch in the Shangri-La hotel, outlining the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015. He recognised the role British business has played in the unparalleled development of Dubai and acknowledged the plan's social focus on making Dubai a "melting pot" of cultures and ideas.

Mr Alyousuf indicated that social cohesion is an important element in the 2015 Strategic Plan and stressed the importance of maintaining national identity for UAE nationals while the expatriate population increases.

"During our research for the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, we found that many UAE nationals believe their identity and culture is at threat as we welcome people from all over the world to live, work and settle here," said Mr Alyousuf.

"The answer is to celebrate what makes Dubai and the UAE great. We have increased our focus on national holidays, such as the recent Eid Al-Adha celebrations to bring communities together. Every one should feel a part of Dubai and interaction between communities is the key to social cohesion."

The event, which attracted more than 200 members of the business community, was hailed as another success for the BBG, which has recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and now has more than 1,000 members.

"We were honoured to have Nabil speak to us. To be given the insight into such a groundbreaking plan for Dubai and its development was truly memorable," said Mark Beer, Chairman and CEO of the BBG. "I urge our members to take Nabil's comments on board and enter into dialogue with The Executive Office about how the British business community can continue to be a part of Dubai's growth."

The BBG attracts world-class speakers to address the business community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The Group will welcome Sheikha Lubna Khalid Sultan Al Qasimi, Minister for Economy and Planning of the UAE, in March and Sir John Parker, Deputy Chairman of DP World, Chairman of National Grid and a member of Gordon Brown's Business Council for Britain, in April.