The Dubai Quality Group's HR subgroup has developed a Strategic People Plan to help companies put in place a progressive human resources strategy. Chander Mohan, Chairman of the Subgroup, explains the group's aims.
Satisfied employees mean better business and higher profits - but how can you measure their satisfaction? Outsourcing to a third party has a range of benefits, such as being able to compare results against a region or a market sector. Steve Halligan, Managing Director of Core Group, says satisfaction study results can be shocking, but the overall impact - when the issues raised are properly addressed - is highly positive.
The Financial Services Volunteer Corps (FSVC) is a non-profit organisation that helps build sound financial systems in developing countries. It is currently helping to develop the banking sector and capital markets in Morocco, Egypt and Jordan. Caryn Young, Regional Director MENA, explains the FSVC's role.
Arab markets need a better regulatory structure to reassure international investors, according to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Fraud, manipulation and insider trading are major concerns. Robert D Strahota, Assistant Director International Affairs for the US SEC, says there is a great need for training within the region.
Australia's exports to the UAE are worth 1.2 billion dollars a year. The state of South Australia is keen to increase links further, particularly for business, tourism and education. South Australian premier Mike Rann explains the strong synergies between his state and the Emirates.
National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) prioritises excellence in its services, and initiated the UAE's first benchmarking forum in 2003. The bank is now one of the key supporters of Dubai Quality Group's "Practical Benchmarking the EFQM Way" event in June. The aim is to help organisations use advanced performance measurement systems to continuously improve their business results.
The Emirate of Sharjah is undergoing a considerable development boom in all sectors of property, from residential and commercial to leisure and tourism. Sheikh Tariq bin Faisal al Qassimi, Chairman of the Government of Sharjah's Economic Development Department, explains the benefits for investors.
After decades of oppression and damaging sanctions, Iraqi people are keen to gain the skills necessary to build business and participate in the world economy. Ahmed Al Samerai, explains the mindset of Iraqis towards foreign companies, as well as some of the UN's projects in Iraq.
Three Gulf financial institutions have joined forces to create a new Gulf mutual fund, designed to give regional investors exposure to other GCC markets. Shebab Mohammed Gargash, MD, Daman Asset Management, explains how the IFA Khaleeji Fund will also include coverage of Iraq.
Implementing a proper CRM (Customer Relationship Management) strategy can be critical for business success. Don Peppers, a renowned international authority on CRM, was recently in Dubai to share his expertise.
Many companies are keen to do business in the fast-recovering Iraqi market. But with the country still unstable, what are the key opportunities, and what extra security measures need to be taken? Robert Connan, Director of the Iraqi Business Centre, has recently returned from Baghdad, bringing valuable insight into the situation on the ground.
Islamic venture capital technology fund Injazat has enjoyed a good 2003, making more than US$16 million in investements. Hussein Rifai, Injazat's Chief Executive Officer, says the company will be undergoing a major expansion in the region in 2004, into markets including Egypt, Morocco, Qatar and Bahrain.
BMW Group Middle East has announced a new sales record for 2002, with a 38% increase in the number of cars sold. BMW believes a strong product line-up with the launch of new models drove the growth.
The Middle East is enjoying increased investor interest, with many eyeing the untapped potential of markets here. But what impact will a war on Iraq have? Forsyth Partners Chief Executive, Paul Forsyth, gives his insight on regional investment and instability.
Rebuilding an entire country - the vast challenge faced in Afghanistan. Prince Ali Seraj, the nephew of Afghanistan's last king, gives his insight into the struggle and opportunities for his people.