'Leaders in Dubai' to discuss global political and economic challenges and opportunities

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Carrying the theme of 'Emerging Strategies for Tomorrow's Challenges,' the forum's discussions are expected to be dominated by the prevailing socio-economic challenges facing the world.

Confirmed speakers for this year's forum, due to take place from November 16 to 18 at Dubai International Convention Center, include James Wolfensohn, Mohamed ElBaradei, Tom Peters, Sir Winfried Bischoff, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Dave Ulrich, Geoffrey West, Thomas Frey and David Taylor.

The event covers not only globalisation and economics, human capital, motivation and diplomacy but also has a strong focus on the future; through the idea of a new age of leadership in a changing business landscape, and economic trends indicating a slowdown in major world markets. In addition, the diverse speaker lineup will share key insights into the way businesses in the new age have to show responsibility to their social environment.

'Business cannot thrive in a community if profit is its only objective,' commented Wolfensohn. 'A healthy society is essential as a framework for growth and stability.'

Wolfensohn, the former President of the World Bank, will lead the debate on corporate accountability and will put a special emphasis on corporate social responsibility (CSR), and why social responsibility should no longer be a choice, but an essential part of a global strategy.

Mohamd ElBaradei, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and 2005 Nobel Peace Prize Winner, will speak on 'Diplomacy and Tact in an Unstable Political Era,' addressing the issue of conflict management and how to build bridges between nations who carry a different agenda and game plan.

'When people talk about muscle flexing, they simply scare the hell out of all those who want to negotiate,' said ElBaradei.

A completely new theory on business success which has never been discussed in the Middle East before is the scientific concept of direct relationships between nature, biology and business success. Geoffrey West, the President of the Santa Fe Institute and revolutionary scientist, will talk about how businesses can maximize performance by observing behaviors in nature to understand the complexities of business structures, relationships and team interaction.

'This year's conference has evolved into an integrated business symposium which encompasses the key themes that form the business environment of today and tomorrow,' said Lucy Mountain, Conference Director.

The Leaders in Dubai Business Forum 2008 is supported by Citibank, Amlak Finance, Etisalat, Al Mal Capital, Nokia and Wasl, Omniyat, the InterContinental Hotel and Cadillac. Media Partners include Al-Arabiya News Channel.

'We are delighted to be part of Leaders in Dubai Business Forum. We believe that this event will offer a platform for debate and interaction with world leaders and experts,' said Mr. Arif Alharmi, Chief Executive Officer, Amlak Finance, the forum's headline sponsor.

'This is a one of its kind event where we will have the opportunity to hear and learn from world leaders who will share their experiences. This exchange of thoughts and ideas will further help bridge gaps between countries and cultures and promote a better understanding of global and regional challenges.'

The forum, which has been organized by 'Leaders Presents' for the past five years, is expected to attract 1,500 participants from 40 countries. Last year's forum featured former UN Secretary-General and 2001 Nobel Peace Prize winner Kofi Annan, 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner Professor Muhammad Yunus, entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson and the renowned author and commentator Malcolm Gladwell, amongst others.