Dubai Airport Free Zone achieves 42% growth in first quarter

Suwailem attributed the measurable growth achieved in the first quarter of the current year to the increasing demand by the international firms and foreign investors for high quality facilities to run their business in a suitable commercial ambience.

"The simple licensing procedures and clear registration methods in addition to the strong networking partnership with business advisers and lawyers have also fuelled our business.

"Over the last 12 years we managed to put up an excellent infrastructure that meet the actual needs for our foreign clients and understand their goals and business objectives," added Suwailem.

He said, "The first quarter of 2008 has proven to be a fruitful period with many European, American and Asian companies seeking to set up business operations to be closer to the huge and populated Asian, African and Gulf markets."

"Premier world renown companies have registered with Dubai Airport Free Zone in the last three years including , Bulgarian Global Operations SA for Watches, Perfumes and Jewelry, Armstrong Floor Products, JCDecaux Dicon and Star Cruise Management."

Asked about the growth prospects towards the end of the year, Suwailem, said, "The results achieved in the first few month of the year is a clear positive indication of the future output." "The 42% increase in sales is a significant jump that is expected to continue throughout the year with a lot of inquires from many firms and investors."

"We are currently developing the new 3-phase expansions to accommodate hundreds of new companies towards the end of the year, with other new projects on the initial planning."

"Some of the most crucial challenges we face is how to attract and retain top talents. "We always have fears that good employees would go seeking a better opportunity."

"You need to engage your employees with the clients and aligning them with the company's strategic vision and direction," he said.

"The management of the Free Zone has put every possible effort to support our

department of the most talented staff and try to retain them by giving them more encouraging incentives," concluded Suwailem.