Latest news with #BCCD
Zawya
28-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
The University of Manchester-Dubai and British Chamber of Commerce Dubai sign annual strategic partnership agreement as UAE-UK business ties deepen
Dubai – United Arab Emirates: The University of Manchester-Dubai (the Middle East branch of one of the world's top research-driven universities) and British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD - a not-for-profit Chamber supporting a diverse and growing British business community) have announced a new Annual Strategic Partnership for 2025. The partnership will create mutual benefits for BCCD and its members, both individual and corporate, and the University's community of students, alumni and partners in Dubai and the UAE through business knowledge sharing, professional networking, and joint experiences and collaborations. The agreement reflects and supports the growing economic, commercial and academic ties between the UK and the UAE. With more than 5,000 UK businesses currently operating in the UAE, the region continues to attract growing interest from British businesses and entrepreneurs as a strategic hub for investment and expansion. According to recent research by UK advisory firm Pagefield, UK interest in the region has doubled in recent years, with 36% of British business leaders now viewing the Middle East as a key investment destination. Along with the co-branding and professional networking opportunities, the University will share its world-leading academics and research-driven thought leadership through faculty-led masterclasses for BCCD members. It will also provide access to the business focused post-graduate learning opportunities through the portfolio of part-time business master's programmes and executive education short business courses. As business faces the multiple challenges of rapid digital transformation, changing customer and consumer expectations and behaviours, and a growing range of global challenges from environmental to economic sustainability, the University's faculty thought leaders will share their research-driven insights that will help business leaders better understand and respond to this dynamic environment. Katy Holmes, CEO at British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD), said: 'We are truly honoured to announce this partnership with the University of Manchester. BCCD Annual Strategic Partners become an integral part of our overall proposition to our members and stakeholders and are therefore agreed with great care and consideration. We are passionate about bridging the gap between industry and academia and see great value in deepening our collaboration with the University of Manchester to enable such consistent knowledge transfer for the benefit of our business ecosystem. The University has an impressive reputation and a proud alumni network in the region. Our values and aspirations are beautifully aligned and I am really looking forward to the fruition of the partnership.' Randa Bessiso, Founder and Director Middle East, The University of Manchester - Dubai, added: 'The University is delighted to sign this Annual Strategic Partnership. BCCD is one of the most successful and impactful international Chambers within the British Chambers of Commerce network and plays a vital role in the dynamic UAE-UK economic relationship, attracting leading UK businesses and business leaders to its community. We share the aspiration to help create strong bonds through partnerships. The University has built a range of successful collaborations in the UAE, from corporate and social responsibility partnerships to joint academic research and commercialisation activity. 'As the business world changes, the very human demands of leadership and talent development are even more essential. Our aim is to support and develop working professionals through our knowledge sharing, teaching and learning, research insights and social responsibility programmes. From our Dubai branch, we already support thousands of students and alumni in a growing regional professional community and they will all benefit from - and contribute to - the partnership with BCCD.' The University of Manchester-Dubai offers a dynamic programme portfolio including a range of faculty-led, flexible learning Manchester part-time MBA programme options - Global Part-time MBA, Finance Accelerated MBA, and Global Executive MBA, and specialist part-time master's programmes, the award-winning MA Educational Leadership in Practice, and MSc Financial Management. Alongside the part-time business master's portfolio, the branch has recently introduced a new range of executive education short business courses. Since opening in the UAE in 2006, the University's Middle East branch in Dubai has developed a strong group of strategic talent and corporate partners across the region, including professional bodies and business groups, multinational and regional companies, and professional services organisations. The branch also works in close collaboration with a range of regional social responsibility partners as part of its commitment to fulfilling one of the University's principal missions in achieving positive social impact. Part of the prestigious Russell Group of universities, The University of Manchester is a centre of teaching excellence, world-class research, outstanding student experience, and social responsibility. Its research and innovation track record includes creating the world's first nuclear reaction, building the modern computer, isolating graphene, pioneering development economics, and transforming cancer diagnosis and treatment across the world. The University celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2024 and Alliance Manchester Business School celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025. About British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD) The British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD) supports British-owned, Dubai and RAK-based businesses and UK PLCs at every stage of their growth by providing a platform from which to market directly into the British business and expat community. The BCCD also provides a soft landing for UK companies seeking opportunity and growth in the region ahead of setting up locally. Since its inception in 1987, the BCCD has built a credible voice in the region with over 1000 active business and individual members, an impressive reach across social media and digital platforms including its weekly e-newsletter, and a diverse, engaged audience in the UAE, the GCC and the UK. The BCCD provides a great exposure opportunity for brands looking to increase their local market recognition. Through a considered and strategic calendar of over 70 events per year, the BCCD ensures high-quality networking opportunities, market knowledge sharing, valuable engagement opportunities and exclusive experiences for its members. The BCCD has a strong working relationship with the British Embassy and the Department for Business and Trade and is an international member of the British Chambers of Commerce. About The University of Manchester The University of Manchester is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and is one of the UK's largest single-site universities with more than 44,000 students on campus – including more than 10,000 international students. The University is consistently ranked among the world's elite institutions for graduate employability and world-class research across a diverse range of fields including cancer, advanced materials, global inequalities, energy and industrial biotechnology. 26 Nobel laureates have either worked or studied at the University, which is the only UK University to have social responsibility among its core strategic objectives, dedicated to making a positive difference in communities around the world. About The University of Manchester-Dubai The University of Manchester's Middle East branch at Dubai Knowledge Park opened in 2006 and is the largest and fastest growing in the University's international network comprising five hubs in key business cities around the world. The branch has supported 3,600 Manchester Global Part-time master's students in the region and graduated around 2,650 MBA students. The branch also works in regional collaborations with a range of industry groups, professional bodies and companies, and supports a regional alumni base of over 5,500.
Al Etihad
11-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
RAKEZ deepens commercial ties between UAE, UK
11 Apr 2025 12:54 ABU DHABI (WAM)Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) took centre stage as the lead sponsor of the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD) 's stakeholder reception held in Central London, amplifying its mission to deepen commercial ties between the UK and the event, which welcomed C-suite executives and industry leaders from across the UK, was part of the Chamber's growing series of initiatives and events to support British businesses seeking opportunities in the UAE and the wider Middle interest in the region at an all-time high and over 30 percent of the BCCD's new members in the past year being UK nationals who recently relocated to the UAE, the reception was a timely platform for fostering dialogue and sponsorship reflects its growing international engagement—particularly in the UK—as it continues to showcase Ras Al Khaimah as a thriving hub for British enterprises. The event also built on the foundation of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding signed last year between RAKEZ and BCCD to collaborate in supporting UK businesses entering the Ras Al Khaimah CEO Katy Holmes said, "RAKEZ has been an active member of the BCCD since 2016. Last year, in response to growing interest from our members in Ras Al Khaimah's rapid development, we strengthened our relationship by signing an MoU to support the increasing number of British businesses establishing a presence in the emirate, whilst highlighting its unique business opportunities. RAKEZ is very active internationally–including in the UK–promoting trade with the UAE and our shared goals made them a natural fit as lead sponsors for this UK stakeholder reception."RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad highlighted the broader significance of the UK-UAE relationship saying, "Our long-standing relationship with the UK continues to grow stronger as both nations deepen their collaboration across trade, innovation, and added that Ras Al Khaimah is increasingly becoming a destination of choice for British businesses looking to expand into the Middle East, offering a strategic location, investor-friendly environment, and robust support system."At RAKEZ, we are proud to be enabling the success of over 2,200 UK companies—ranging from startups to global players. Events like this reception are invaluable for fostering meaningful connections and unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth," Jallad the BCCD continues to take its mission directly to the UK through curated events, RAKEZ's active involvement signals its ongoing role in shaping the narrative of international business expansion and cross-border economic zone is home to a strong and diverse portfolio of British companies, including global tea producer Ahmad Tea, world-leading laptop remanufacturer A2C, aircraft cabin simulator specialist Spatial Composite, as well as manufacturers such as Manchester Paperbags and JRL Fabrications. It also supports international social enterprises like Waste to Wonder. By fostering meaningful connections and showcasing the unique advantages of doing business in Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ continues to attract UK enterprises and drive forward economic collaboration and shared success.
Zawya
11-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
RAKEZ deepens commercial ties between UAE, UK
RAS AL KHAIMAH - Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) took centre stage as the lead sponsor of the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD) 's stakeholder reception held in Central London, amplifying its mission to deepen commercial ties between the UK and the UAE. The event, which welcomed C-suite executives and industry leaders from across the UK, was part of the Chamber's growing series of initiatives and events to support British businesses seeking opportunities in the UAE and the wider Middle East. With interest in the region at an all-time high and over 30 percent of the BCCD's new members in the past year being UK nationals who recently relocated to the UAE, the reception was a timely platform for fostering dialogue and connection. RAKEZ's sponsorship reflects its growing international engagement—particularly in the UK—as it continues to showcase Ras Al Khaimah as a thriving hub for British enterprises. The event also built on the foundation of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding signed last year between RAKEZ and BCCD to collaborate in supporting UK businesses entering the Ras Al Khaimah market. BCCD CEO Katy Holmes said, "RAKEZ has been an active member of the BCCD since 2016. Last year, in response to growing interest from our members in Ras Al Khaimah's rapid development, we strengthened our relationship by signing an MoU to support the increasing number of British businesses establishing a presence in the emirate, whilst highlighting its unique business opportunities. RAKEZ is very active internationally–including in the UK–promoting trade with the UAE and our shared goals made them a natural fit as lead sponsors for this UK stakeholder reception." RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad highlighted the broader significance of the UK-UAE relationship saying, "Our long-standing relationship with the UK continues to grow stronger as both nations deepen their collaboration across trade, innovation, and sustainability. He added that Ras Al Khaimah is increasingly becoming a destination of choice for British businesses looking to expand into the Middle East, offering a strategic location, investor-friendly environment, and robust support system. "At RAKEZ, we are proud to be enabling the success of over 2,200 UK companies—ranging from startups to global players. Events like this reception are invaluable for fostering meaningful connections and unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth," Jallad stated. As the BCCD continues to take its mission directly to the UK through curated events, RAKEZ's active involvement signals its ongoing role in shaping the narrative of international business expansion and cross-border collaboration. The economic zone is home to a strong and diverse portfolio of British companies, including global tea producer Ahmad Tea, world-leading laptop remanufacturer A2C, aircraft cabin simulator specialist Spatial Composite, as well as manufacturers such as Manchester Paperbags and JRL Fabrications. It also supports international social enterprises like Waste to Wonder. By fostering meaningful connections and showcasing the unique advantages of doing business in Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ continues to attract UK enterprises and drive forward economic collaboration and shared success. ES
Zawya
11-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
RAKEZ champions UK-UAE business growth at British Chamber of Commerce Dubai reception in London
Ras Al Khaimah: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) took centre stage as the lead sponsor of the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD)'s stakeholder reception held in Central London, amplifying its mission to deepen commercial ties between the UK and the UAE. The event, which welcomed C-suite executives and industry leaders from across the UK, was part of the Chamber's growing series of initiatives and events aimed at supporting British businesses seeking opportunities in the UAE and the wider Middle East. With interest in the region at an all-time high, and over 30% of the BCCD's new members in the past year being UK nationals who recently relocated to the UAE, the reception was a timely platform for fostering dialogue and connection. RAKEZ's sponsorship reflects its growing international engagement—particularly in the UK—as it continues to showcase Ras Al Khaimah as a thriving hub for British enterprises. The event also built on the foundation of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding signed last year between RAKEZ and BCCD to collaborate in supporting UK businesses entering the Ras Al Khaimah market. BCCD CEO Katy Holmes said, 'RAKEZ has been an active member of the BCCD since 2016. Last year, in response to growing interest from our members in Ras Al Khaimah's rapid development, we strengthened our relationship by signing an MoU to support the increasing number of British businesses establishing a presence in the emirate, whilst highlighting its unique business opportunities. RAKEZ is very active internationally–including in the UK–promoting trade with the UAE and our shared goals made them a natural fit as lead sponsors for this UK stakeholder reception.' RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad highlighted the broader significance of the UK-UAE relationship saying, 'Our long-standing relationship with the UK continues to grow stronger as both nations deepen their collaboration across trade, innovation, and sustainability. Ras Al Khaimah is increasingly becoming a destination of choice for British businesses looking to expand into the Middle East, offering a strategic location, investor-friendly environment, and robust support system. At RAKEZ, we are proud to be enabling the success of over 2,200 UK companies—ranging from startups to global players. Events like this reception are invaluable for fostering meaningful connections and unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth.' As the BCCD continues to take its mission directly to the UK through curated events, RAKEZ's active involvement signals its ongoing role in shaping the narrative of international business expansion and cross-border collaboration. The economic zone is home to a strong and diverse portfolio of British companies, including global tea producer Ahmad Tea, world-leading laptop remanufacturer A2C, aircraft cabin simulator specialist Spatial Composite, as well as manufacturers such as Manchester Paperbags and JRL Fabrications. It also supports international social enterprises like Waste to Wonder. By fostering meaningful connections and showcasing the unique advantages of doing business in Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ continues to attract UK enterprises and drive forward economic collaboration and shared success. About Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ): RAKEZ is a powerhouse business and industrial hub established by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. It currently hosts over 30,000 companies coming from over 100+ countries and operating in more than 50 industries. RAKEZ offers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and manufacturers a wide-range of solutions, including free zone and non-free zone licences, customisable facilities, and first-class services provided in a one-stop shop. Furthermore, RAKEZ has specialised zones that are tailored to specific needs of investors: Al Nakheel and Al Hamra Business Zones for commercial and service companies; Al Ghail, Al Hamra and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones for manufacturers and industrialists; and an Academic Zone for educational providers. A leading economic zone, RAKEZ aims to continue attracting diversified investment opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth of Ras Al Khaimah.
Khaleej Times
09-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Women hold just 11% of UAE board seats: Why gender gap remains in leadership roles
Female representation in tech leadership remains low in the UAE, with women holding only 11 per cent of board positions. Despite a 900 per cent increase in GenAI course enrollments, a significant gender gap persists in tech leadership, according to a new study. That's according to Coursera's 'Closing the Gender Gap in GenAI Skills' playbook, a new resource aimed at addressing the gender gap in Generative AI (GenAI) skills. The study also revealed that women account for 23.8 per cent of GenAI learners in the UAE. While this reflects ongoing efforts to boost female participation in STEM, it also underscores the continued gender gap in the field. Experts further emphasise that limited workplace flexibility makes maintaining a healthy work-life balance difficult. Female founders get less funding Katy Holmes, CEO of the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD), said, 'It is widely known that there is a huge disparity in investment in female-led businesses, which in itself will be a dissuade. Only 2-3 per cent of total venture capital goes to female founders. Even when female founders do secure funding, it is significantly lower—as much as 30-50 pe cent lower than their male counterparts and yet research shows female-led companies perform as well if not better than male-led businesses." Professionals highlight that female STEM teachers will naturally appeal and attract more engaged female students who go on to tech careers. 'Outside of school, e-sports is having a positive impact and encouraging more women into tech as early interest and adoption will build confidence, critical thinking and interest programming and therefore open up the idea of a career in technology.' They explained that this will organically attract a younger female audience and generate curious students. 'This is not a standalone solution but will probably have great influence." 'Traditionally, CTOs and CIOs are very male-dominated; studies estimate that women hold about 10-12 per cent of these positions. Companies should focus on their pipeline from as early as the graduate programs, and it will probably take a slight correction and hiring strategy that is biased toward women with coaching from great mentors in the field to spark an interest and sponsor them through the company,' added Holmes. Lack of flexibility in work environments Professionals also explained that the barriers to women's advancement in STEM are multifaceted from an academic perspective. Prof Swarnalatha Rajaguru, Associate Dean for Admissions and Marketing, BITS Pilani Dubai, said, 'Historically, women have been underrepresented in these fields, and this underrepresentation has, unfortunately, been normalised over time.' She highlighted that, as a result, men often hold leadership positions by default. 'Women face the additional challenge of balancing both competence and likability, a pressure not typically placed on their male counterparts. Moreover, the lack of flexibility in work environments makes it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Women are frequently judged based on their caregiving responsibilities, such as raising children, which can further hinder career progression,' added Rajaguru. Teach modern leadership principles They suggest researching gender disparities can drive informed policy changes, ensuring a more equitable future in STEM. Dr Rita Zgheib, Assistant Professor Computer Science, School of Engineering, Applied Science and Technology, Canadian University Dubai said, 'Perceptions like certain leadership traits are inherently male can result in fewer women being considered for executive roles. Despite recognising that women can often perform better and exhibit higher levels of professionalism, some still hold the belief that leadership should be male-dominated due to men's ability to work long hours or their assertive nature and assuming that women's family responsibilities prevent them from excelling in executive positions.' Educators stressed that varsities should teach modern leadership principles, focusing on empathy, adaptability, innovation, and inclusive decision-making rather than the outdated notion that ruling with authority equates to leadership success. Therefore, increasing female enrolment in STEM programs through outreach initiatives, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities becomes imperative. 'Universities play a pivotal role in shaping future tech leaders by prioritising expertise, professionalism, and quality over outdated notions that leadership belongs to those who can work long hours or simply command authority. True leadership is about vision, strategic thinking, and empowering others,' added Zgheib. Therefore, a diverse and inclusive tech workforce is essential for driving innovation, especially in traditionally male-dominated fields like AI. Dr Alexandra Urban, Learning Science Research Lead at Coursera, said, 'While progress is evident, expanding opportunities for women in GenAI, equipping them with critical skills, and empowering them to lead in the digital economy remains an urgent priority.'
