Throughout history Dubai has always benefited from its geographical location between the East and the West and from its geopolitical position in a region with a market of over 1.5 billion consumers. On December 2nd 2006 the UAE celebrated its 35th birthday and those who have witnessed its formation in 1971 will confirm the remarkable development and reformation the country has undergone ever since.

Starting with the discovery of oil in 1966 Dubai has continuously realized - with an impeccable track record - its plans to become one of the most advanced centers of globalization worldwide. A few examples of many highlights are:
 

The increase of international companies operating in the Jebel Ali Free Zone, located in the largest man-made Sea Port in the world, from 298 in 1990 to almost 6000 in 2006.
 

The building of the new Dubai Jebel Ali Airport which upon completion will be by far the largest airport in the world.
 

The UAE Strategic Plan 2015 that was announced in February 2007 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai will help the Emirates to achieve an eleven per cent annual growth in GDP through 2015 making the UAE one of the fastest growing economies in the World and an attractive partner for German business. The GBCD is dedicated and committed to support its member to benefit from these prospects.

At the June 21, 2007 Annual General Meeting the members of the GBCD approved our new Articles of Association that provide, amongst others, for the following:
 

Membership for Emirati and any 3rd nationality companies and individuals - provided they have a vested interest in supporting the German/Emirati business ties
 

Professional management by the Delegate of German Industry and Commerce as the Managing Director of the GBCD and born member of its Board
 

With the now even closer cooperation between the GBCD and the Delegate of German Industry and Commerce we will intensify our cooperation with local partners in government and the private sector and will help them to build their relations with companies belonging to the industry and commerce of Germany.

I congratulate all German companies and individuals who are already successfully operating in Dubai or the Northern Emirates and invite all new ones - German and non-German - that have a vested interest in supporting the German/Emirati business relations to join the German Business community . Today there are about 600 German companies already established in Emirates and the number is continuously increasing. About 400 of them are already members of the GBCD or GeBCAD - the German Business Council Abu Dhabi.

On behalf of our more than 300 members and my GBCD Board member colleagues I thank you all for your cooperation and interest shown in the German Business Council Dubai and Northern Emirates. We wish you Good Luck and much success in all your endeavours in the UAE.

No visa needed for flying to the Emirates!

Sincerely

Stephan Rosenthal

Chairman of the Board

Dubai, July 2007