Latest news with #DubaiChambers


The National
9 hours ago
- Business
- The National
Dubai offers a gateway to London's 'Henrys'
Hard by the corner of Kensington Church Street and Kensington High Street is the new Dubai Hub. As a statement location, it takes some beating. For those who don't know London, this is an area that is eternally fashionable, with a mixture of smart offices, shops, restaurants, mansions and luxury apartments. People work, relax and reside here. It's always busy, day and night. Transport links are good and parking is available. Accessible, central, appealing to go-getting businesses and individuals – not unlike Dubai itself, in fact. That's the point. The sort of people who throng here are known these days as Henrys in London. High Earners, Not Rich Yet are people earning six figures in pounds sterling but in an income tax and cost-of-living trap that means they do not feel affluent. The folks who live and linger in this part of town may be drawn to the UAE, might want to move their company or expand there, are looking to invest, could be considering relocating their company and their family to take advantage of Dubai's many attractions, not least the ease of doing business, branches of leading British schools and a less onerous taxation system. Occupying the ground floor of a modern, smart building, the Dubai Hub is a bridge between the two countries and structures. Supervised by Dubai Chambers and operated by Al Burj Holding, under licence from the Dubai government, it is designed to provide all the services that anyone wishing to invest in Dubai will require. Previously, they would have to travel to obtain advice and discuss and complete the necessary procedures. Now, step off the pavement and all that can be obtained under one roof, in the beating heart of one of the world's leading financial centres, in a prime, mixed-purpose district. Because it carries the seal of approval of the Dubai's authorities, the hub is both private and official. So, it is a fully licensed one-stop shop for advice and assistance. It is to help clients enjoy a smoother passage, to explain and facilitate any potential blockages, to negotiate the required steps and entry requirements. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, president and CEO of Dubai Chambers, explained the thinking behind the hub: "We are focused on enhancing Dubai's global competitiveness and ensuring seamless service access for our international clients. The launch of Dubai Hub sends a strong message: making business easier for our global investors is our top priority." As a declaration of intent, it takes some beating. Right now, the British media is full of articles about the lacklustre UK economy and the Labour administration's unpopularity and the targeting of businesses and the wealthy as a source of increased public revenue. Fears are mounting that what is a steady stream of departures may become much stronger. The shuttered houses appearing in parts of London are testament to those who have already left for good or they are choosing to return for the summer season, only to head back once the cold and shorter British days set in. Meanwhile, businesses wishing to develop internationally are seeking a user-friendly environment, one that is truly global in outlook and occupies a strategic geographical position between east and west, north and south, with everything, including a super air travel network, advanced infrastructure and communications, on tap. Dubai fits that bill. In a sense, the Dubai Hub prompts the question: what took you so long, given the strong, existing links between Britain and UAE? But it has arrived, a practical, very real symbol of the Dubai Economic Agenda – or D33 – aimed at doubling the size of Dubai's economy over the next 10 years. The plan is for those ties to become even closer. Indeed, Mr Lootah hails the move as further underlining Dubai's commitment to supporting investors abroad and pursuing the goals of D33. So, Dubai Hub London – as it is known; the aim is to add more such overseas locations – is intended to supply a complete menu of public and private services. The aim is to make it easier for UK-based businesses to establish and scale operations in Dubai. By supplying customised assistance, it will assist entrepreneurs, business owners and investors confidently navigate the complexities of entering the Dubai market. From legal and real estate to business formation and residency guidance, the hub functions as a single destination for end-to-end advisory and facilitation. The initiative simplifies cross-border transactions and eliminates many of the bureaucratic hurdles traditionally faced by international investors and their families (educational advice is on offer). At present, at this early stage, the hub is working closely with four government departments: Land, for dealing with property acquisition and investment; Economy and Tourism, for trading and the obtaining of licences; Courts, covering matters contractual and formal; and General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, relating to visas, residence and identity documentation. The hub is also collaborating with leading property developers to provide suggested investment opportunities. In time, as the hub becomes more established and increases in size, the number of government bodies and services partnering the hub will rise. Support is given bilingually, in Arabic or English, and consultations are flexible, via remote or in-person. The first session is free and following sessions attract a flat fee. Because it is not an embassy or a consulate but is officially endorsed, it is a government outsourcing hub, in addition to being a place that can put together bespoke business relocation and investment packages. The frictionless best of both worlds then, and one that saves clients an inordinate amount of time and expenditure, cutting out the need to journey to Dubai to complete forms and comply with official processes. By taking away the pain it is effectively generating a substantial gain. Its mission is "to deliver accurate, professional consultancy that connects clients with the right Dubai authorities, saving them time, effort, and uncertainty". One question raised in London is why now? Close by the hub is the headquarters of the Daily Mail, Britain's biggest-selling newspaper in print and online, and a ferocious critic of the present Westminster government and its ministers. Woo business For them, the opening is bound to be regarded as a sure sign of the Keir Starmer administration's failure to woo businesses and their leaders. Undoubtedly, Dubai is finding a more interested and engaged audience. But it would be wrong to suggest this is a knee-jerk, hastily put together reaction to commerce's travails under Mr Starmer. It has been long in the planning, fits with a carefully considered Dubai government objective and reflects a well-established bilateral trading and financial bond. London is the business and financial capital of Europe and as such, it is a magnet for European enterprises and their backers. The hub is able to reach them and enhance Dubai's visibility within the region. That is the hub's vision, "to be the leading Dubai-focused advisory service in Europe – trusted for our clarity, professionalism, and results". For investors in Dubai, the website also declares: "Explore lucrative investment opportunities in one of the world's fastest-growing markets. Our services include real estate investment advisory, return on investment and rental yield consultation; government investment projects; private and public sector partnership support; legal due diligence for investments; real estate registration trustee coordination; investment-based residency visa support." That is quite a list. Investing in Dubai from London has just become a whole lot easier. Possibly long overdue, it has arrived and it is prominently situated. The Dubai Hub London, it is bound to fulfil a growing demand.


Zawya
11 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy launches The Entrepreneur's AI Playbook
The playbook offers valuable guidance on the artificial intelligence tools available to support every stage of developing entrepreneurial projects. Dubai, UAE – Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has launched 'The Entrepreneur's AI Playbook' to raise awareness about the artificial intelligence tools and applications entrepreneurs can leverage to successfully launch, manage, and scale their businesses. The guide was developed as part of the 'Create Apps in Dubai' initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. 'Create Apps in Dubai' seeks to train and upskill 1,000 UAE nationals, strengthen digital capabilities, and triple the number of app developers in Dubai, as well as support the launch of 100 new homegrown mobile application projects. The initiative also includes the 'Create Apps Championship,' which seeks to reinforce Dubai's leadership in smart application development, attract global talent, and encourage entrepreneurs to present their ideas for innovative mobile apps. The Entrepreneur's AI Playbook offers practical guidance on artificial intelligence tools that can be used at every stage of developing entrepreneurial ventures and startups. This includes the setup phase, covering naming and brand identity, followed by developing value propositions, business models, and digital products and services. The guide also addresses the operational phase, including customer acquisition, fulfilment, billing, and customer support. The guide highlights Dubai's commitment to building a world-class AI ecosystem, which is reflected in several strategic initiatives and events. These include the AI Retreat, the Dubai Universal Blueprint for AI, the appointment of Chief AI Officers across government entities, and AI Week in Dubai schools, together with programmes designed to empower entrepreneurs to harness advanced AI technologies across diverse sectors. About Du bai Chamber of Digital Economy Dubai Ch amber of Digital Economy, one of three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, aims to strengthen Dubai's position as a global leader in the digital economy; attract specialised talent, leading companies, and new investments; and create a stimulating environment that supports the growth of digital companies. The chamber was established by a decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.


UAE Moments
12 hours ago
- Business
- UAE Moments
Dubai Courts Launches First International Hub in London
Dubai brings its legal game to London — here's why it matters for global investors. In a bold move to make legal services more accessible to global investors, Dubai Courts has officially opened its first overseas hub in London. The new Dubai Hub London is designed to streamline the investment process for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to launch or expand in the UAE. This international leap marks the first time Dubai Courts has operated outside the UAE, part of a wider push by Dubai Chambers to position Dubai as a top-tier global business capital. 'This is a major step toward making Dubai more accessible to international investors,' said Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers. 'The launch reflects our leadership's vision to position Dubai as a global business capital and underscores our ongoing efforts to support investors abroad.' So what does the hub actually do? Quite a lot, actually. Dubai Hub London offers access to services from several major government entities all under one roof. Here's a taste of what investors can get done without boarding a flight: Dubai Courts: Legal docs, contract attestation, signature verification, and case registration Dubai Land Department: Real estate valuations, map issuance, and data updates Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism: Trade name reservations, business license processing General Directorate of Identity & Foreigners Affairs: Residency-related admin support Plus, it also links up with top Dubai property developers to provide real estate services — a bonus for investors curious about the emirate's booming property market. Services include notary public offerings, legal translation, church contract attestation for non-Muslims, and even attending hearings remotely. Why London? As one of the world's leading financial hubs, London is a strategic choice for Dubai's first international service center. With its large pool of international investors and global reach, it's the perfect gateway for those eyeing Dubai's ever-expanding market. The hub also builds a stronger bridge between the UAE and UK, promoting investment flows in both directions. Dubai's on a roll Dubai isn't slowing down anytime soon — it topped the global charts for foreign direct investment for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, according to the Financial Times' fDi Markets.


CairoScene
14 hours ago
- Business
- CairoScene
Dubai Chambers Launches Family Business Advisor Directory
Dubai Chambers' new directory helps family businesses access 56 trusted consultants certified in governance, succession, M&A, and advisory through global programmes. Jul 29, 2025 Dubai Chambers, a non-profit organisation that serves the needs of the business community in Dubai, has introduced the emirate's first advisor directory dedicated to family-owned businesses, offering access to 56 certified consultants with expertise in governance, succession, restructuring, and dispute resolution. Developed through the Centre for Family Businesses, the new resource aims to support the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of family firms across the UAE. The directory includes profiles for each advisor, detailing professional background, certification status, areas of specialisation, and contact information. Advisors are categorised as either experienced practitioners or certified experts who have completed the Certified Family Business Advisor (CFBA) and Certified Family Wealth Advisor (CFWA) programmes. These programmes are delivered in partnership with the Family Firm Institute (FFI), a leading international body in family business education and research. In addition to offering access to local advisory services, the initiative provides certified consultants with entry into FFI's Global Education Network and related training, publications, and global resources. The directory is designed to assist family businesses in areas including corporate governance, succession planning, mergers and acquisitions, operational restructuring, and legal mediation. It also builds on the Family Business Advisor Certification Programme launched by Dubai Chambers in 2023 to improve advisory standards across the region.


Khaleej Times
17 hours ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai Courts opens first overseas hub in London offering services for investors
To strengthen international investor confidence and provide global access to its judicial services, the Dubai Courts have begun offering services at the newly launched Dubai Hub London, in the UK. This is the first time Dubai Courts has operated from an overseas location, to provide world-class judicial services to global investors, entrepreneurs, and businesses looking to establish or expand in Dubai. The launch is part of a broader initiative led by Dubai Chambers, which unveiled Dubai Hub London as its first international service centre. The hub offers integrated support from key Dubai government entities, helping investors deal with legal, economic, and administrative processes under one roof. 'This is a major step toward making Dubai more accessible to international investors,' said Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers. 'The launch reflects our leadership's vision to position Dubai as a global business capital and underscores our ongoing efforts to support investors abroad.' A one-stop gateway to Dubai Dubai Hub London will initially offer services from the following entities: Dubai Courts: Contract attestation, document translation, signature verification, certificate preparation, and declaration registration. Dubai Land Department: Property valuation, data modification, and map issuance. Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism: Trade name reservations, business licence issuance, renewals, and amendments. General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs: Administrative and residency-related services. Additionally, the hub will provide real estate services in collaboration with major Dubai property developers, offering investors direct access to Dubai's dynamic property market. Integrated services from multiple government entities include: Notary public Smart services Legal notices Submission of applications Attendance of hearings Personal status services Attestation of contracts and meeting minutes Attestation of powers of attorney and declarations Case registration and enquiries Legal translation services Attestation of church contracts and wills of non-Muslims Dubai Hub London aims to strengthen ties between Dubai and the UK and create new opportunities for investment. London was selected for the first hub due to its global financial status and access to a broad investor base seeking to tap into Dubai's growing market. Dubai's flexible regulatory framework, advanced infrastructure, and strategic global location have positioned it as a top investment destination. The emirate retained its number one global ranking for foreign direct investment attraction for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, according to the Financial Times' fDi Markets.