New york: The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU), held a high-level roundtable for family businesses in New York, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s economic transformation and its robust investment opportunities.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event brought together prominent family businesses from the United States and Abu Dhabi as part of activities organized during the Abu Dhabi economic delegation’s visit to the United States from 29 September to 1 October. This initiative underscores the Chamber’s efforts to strengthen ties with major global economies and consolidate Abu Dhabi’s status as a preferred destination for talent, enterprise, and international investment.
The roundtable was attended by key figures including Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shamis Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Chamber, and Marwa Al Mansoori, Board Member of the Chamber, alongside representatives from ten leading Emirati companies.
Ahmed Al Zaabi emphasized the importance of family businesses as a crucial pillar of the economy, contributing significantly to job creation, economic development, and diversification. He highlighted that strengthening their international presence opens new avenues for expansion and innovation, which are vital for sustaining growth across generations.
The United States remains one of the UAE’s largest trade and investment partners, and platforms such as this roundtable are essential for deepening ties and unlocking opportunities across various sectors including advanced technologies, new energy, financial services, agritech, logistics, and manufacturing.
Influential figures from the U.S. business community also participated in the event, including Peter Tichansky, President and CEO of BCIU, and Her Excellency Ambassador Josette Sheeran, Founder and CEO of Firefly Global. Members of the Arab Bankers Association of North America, along with New York-based business leaders and investors, contributed to the dialogue.
The roundtable facilitated dialogue, knowledge exchange, and exploration of investment opportunities across priority sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and clean energy. It reinforced the shared commitment of Abu Dhabi and United States partners to expand cooperation and establish a sustainable, long-term partnership.
Family businesses play a pivotal role in the UAE’s economy, contributing approximately 60% of the GDP and employing 80% of the workforce. They account for around 90% of private-sector companies in the country, operating in sectors including the new economy, hospitality, retail, real estate, and construction, as noted by the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism.
The Abu Dhabi Chamber delegation showcased the emirate’s strengths as a rising business hub, emphasizing its investor-friendly environment, advanced infrastructure, and legal framework that supports efficient company expansion across regional and global markets.
Discussions with American counterparts covered potential joint projects aimed at unlocking mutual benefits and enhancing two-way investment flows. Emirati participants included notable companies such as Waha Capital, Mubarak and Brothers Investments, Al Sayegh Group, Arabian Group Holding, Al Otaiba Enterprises, Walker Engineering, Emirates Angels, Response Plus Holding, Agthia, and the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre.
The participation of public and private sector representatives underscores the contribution of Emirati companies in enhancing Abu Dhabi’s role in international economic cooperation, forging strategic partnerships, and supporting sustainable development.