The Dubai Business Forum – USA showcased the UAE private sector’s commitment to global expansion
Leading UAE companies attending the Dubai Business Forum – USA in New York highlighted the event’s critical role in enhancing trade and investment relations between the UAE and the United States. The forum, part of the largest overseas business delegation led by Dubai Chambers, serves as a platform to expand international partnerships and explore new areas of cooperation.
Shehab Gargash, Managing Director and Group CEO of Gargash Group, noted that the recently opened Dubai Chambers representative office in New York reinforces the emirate’s economic ties with the US. “The new office supports UAE companies and opens wider opportunities for cooperation with major US institutions, strengthening Dubai’s position as a global centre for trade and business,” he said. Gargash also highlighted his group’s focus on digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) as part of its future strategy.
Matar Almehairi, CEO and Founder of Meerana Information Technology, emphasised that partnerships facilitated by Dubai Chambers provide strong prospects for developing the UAE’s technology and AI sectors. He noted that the US market offers unique access to digital capabilities and scientific expertise, enabling the UAE to attract skilled talent and strengthen its digital ecosystem.
“Emirati talent is now capable of competing on a global scale, and our aim is to empower them within the country’s growing AI ecosystem,” said Almehairi, underscoring the UAE’s digital economy as a significant economic opportunity.
Mohamed Jassim Al Rais, Chairman and CEO of Al Rais Investment Group, highlighted the forum as a strategic avenue for connecting with international partners in logistics, shipping, tourism, and AI technology. The company held discussions with leading US AI institutions to explore new cooperation opportunities, reinforcing non-oil trade growth between the UAE and the United States.
May Youssef, Senior Director of Leading Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability at Talabat, noted that Dubai’s innovation-driven ecosystem, coupled with access to global talent and advanced logistics networks, has been key to the company’s expansion. She said Talabat’s grocery and retail delivery segment has grown by 40 percent in 2025 and now represents a substantial part of its operations.
“Talabat’s digital model provides international suppliers with an easier path to the UAE market, allowing companies to reach consumers without physical stores,” said Youssef. She added that Talabat’s listing on the Dubai Financial Market in late 2024, valued at approximately US$10 billion, marked a milestone as the largest global technology offering of the year, reflecting the UAE’s position as a hub for digital trade.
The Dubai Business Forum – USA continues to reinforce the private sector’s commitment to expanding international business networks, promoting collaboration across technology, logistics, tourism, and AI-driven innovation between the UAE and global markets.
