Global forum on technology innovation set for Dubai

One of the major themes of the event will be sharing the lessons that will enable regional companies to compete at a global level, by actively expanding the role of the knowledge economy.

The 17th International Conference on Management of Technology will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chairman of the Emirates Group, and hosted by The British University of Dubai.

Organisations from the fields of construction, financial services, government and the public sector are set to speak at the event, which will be attended by company presidents and policy makers.

"This year's event is important because it brings together examples of best practice from within the region and from around the world. Among the speakers, we are hosting representatives from one of Denmark's leading universities, from one of the world's leading architecture and engineering consultancies and from one of Australia's largest fund managers," said Dr. Abdullah Alshamsi, University Vice-Chancellor, The British University in Dubai.

"What these companies have in common is that their use of technology has sharpened their competitive edge and enabled them to support sustainable business practice. Our belief is that by pooling knowledge, organisations from different industries will be better positioned to enjoy the full benefits of technology," he added.

The conference will bring together members of the International Association for Management of Technology (IAMOT), a world body that aims to support the creative and innovative development of technology to solve real-world business challenges.

The conference aims to bring together academic researchers and practitioners alike, to strengthen the ties between industry sectors within the UAE and their international counterparts.

Such developments coincide with the vision of creating a knowledge economy, advocated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of UAE, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Companies speaking at the event include Nakheel, Australia's GMO, Aarhuis University of Denmark, WS Atkins Global, Siemens, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the Al Maktoum Foundation.

"This event is bringing together a range of organisations which have a global reputation for their innovation and ongoing development, in addition to some of the world's leading academics in this area. Overall, we believe that this conference will make a demonstrable contribution to developing the UAE's knowledge economy," said Dr Bassam Abu Hijleh, a conference co-chair for IAMOT 2008.

The 17th International Conference on Management of Technology, 'Creating and Managing a Knowledge Economy,' will take place from April 6-10, 2008, at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), Dubai, UAE. Consultants, software vendors and other universities will be given the opportunity to display their services.

The event's Main Sponsors are Al Maktoum Foundation and WS Atkins Global.

BUiD will open the event with a series of specialized pre-conference workshops held on 6th April 2007 and open to all.