Dubai Chambers Engages Mayors From 14 Global Cities In Trade And Investment Discussions

Dubai Chambers recently hosted a roundtable to discuss trade and investment prospects with 14 mayors and senior officials from various global cities. This event was part of the 2025 Asia-Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum, held at Expo City Dubai from 27th to 29th October. The gathering aimed to explore collaborative opportunities for urban growth and development.

The roundtable featured participation from Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, alongside representatives from cities such as North Miami, Athens, Bilbao, Sarajevo, Yerevan, Paris, Nicosia, Kampala, Surat, Beirut and Mount Lebanon, Accra, Casablanca, and Baghdad. The discussions focused on aligning economic strategies with urban development to foster growth.

Participants highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in creating innovative pathways for urban growth. They discussed how collaboration can attract investment and talent while promoting trade-led urban development strategies. These partnerships are seen as crucial for integrating trade priorities within urban plans to achieve sustainable growth.

Lootah emphasised that Dubai serves as a global model by successfully linking economic strategies with urban projects. He stated, "Dubai stands as a model for the world in successfully aligning economic strategies and projects with urban development." This approach has been key in attracting foreign direct investment and stimulating trade growth.

The session also addressed the significance of developing both physical and digital infrastructure to drive investment and create jobs. Participants explored how technology and data can enhance logistics and connectivity. These elements are vital for attracting global talent and ensuring sustainable urban development.

Lootah further noted that Dubai’s success is built on partnerships with the local private sector and international cooperation. He mentioned that these collaborations play a crucial role in driving progress by shaping favourable economic policies and empowering the business community.

Enhancing Trade's Role

The discussions also examined ways to strengthen trade’s role in driving sustainable urban development. Participants stressed the need for increased cooperation between cities, international organisations, and the private sector to develop impactful solutions. Such efforts aim to boost economic diversity and resilience across sectors.

Lootah added that Dubai’s ongoing success demonstrates that harmony between trade, planning, and innovation accelerates urban growth. He said this synergy attracts new investments while building economic diversity. The emirate's achievements highlight the benefits of aligning trade with urban planning.

The roundtable concluded with an emphasis on fostering a competitive business environment through public-private partnerships. Dubai Chambers remains committed to shaping policies that support this goal while ensuring sustainable economic progress for the region.

With inputs from WAM