Emaar takes on key role as sponsor of Jordan meeting of the World Economic Forum

The Dubai-based property major revealed that it has agreed to sponsor the Dead Sea summit which will gather together heads of state and the CEOs of global corporations to turn the spotlight on reform and opportunities in the Middle East.

Emaar has established a track record of support for WEF's global agenda. The upcoming meeting, scheduled for May 20 to 22, will be the third time in succession it has put its weight behind the heavyweight event which has been so instrumental in raising the profile of globalisation.

Mohammed Ali Alabbar, Emaar's Chairman and Director General of the Government of Dubai's Department of Economic Development, speaking on the eve of the latest WEF gathering, said: "The Jordan meeting of the Forum is convening at a time of opportunity for the whole region. What is discussed and decided in Jordan will shape the region's reform agenda in the coming years."

Mr. Alabbar is one of the key speakers and participants in the event, labeled Seizing the Moment. He is scheduled to contribute to sessions that could have huge impact in areas such as political change, international relationships, particularly with Asia, and even social structures.

Anticipating a decisive outcome to the Forum, Mr. Alabbar said: "A climate of change and progress is spreading throughout the Middle East and we have to encourage it. Wherever you look in the region people are standing up, making their voices heard and demanding a better future.

"This dynamism has been evident as elections have taken place in Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the Palestinian territories and the region's political landscape is showing clear signs of shifting.

"The responsibility lies with us all to do everything in our power to drive the process forward."

Alabbar said the Forum continues to provide opportunities for countries to learn from the experiences of others and challenge participants to think in new ways. He committed Emaar to continuing with its support of WEF's pioneering initiatives in other Middle East and Asian countries.

He said: "The Forum's work isn't finished when all the bags are packed and the delegates leave Jordan. In fact it merely marks the beginning."