Businesses in the UAE must prioritise sustainability and make it an integral part of their strategies as prepare for the post-pandemic recovery, industry experts said during the Dubai Dialogue 2020.
The annual conference, recently hosted virtually by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, examined several key sustainability and CSR trends and issues reshaping the global business landscape, as well as practical strategies and valuable insights shared by leading public and private sector organisations and stakeholders in the UAE. Find out more about chambers of commerce HERE.
Presentations and discussions during the event highlighted the business benefits of adopting sustainability as a strategy, tool and mechanism that can be used to ensure resiliency and competitiveness, while boosting organisations’ triple bottom line of people, planet and profits.
During his opening remarks, Dr. Belaid Rettab, Chief Economist Senior Director, Economic Research & Sustainable Business Development Sector, Dubai Chamber
During his opening remarks, Dr. Belaid Rettab, Chief Economist Senior Director, Economic Research & Sustainable Business Development Sector, said Dubai Dialogue is the largest conference organised by Dubai Chamber dedicated to CSR and sustainability matters, describing it as an ideal platform for industry experts to share knowledge and best practices in this area. This year’s Dubai Dialogue was of particular importance, he explained, as discussions delved into timely issues and new challenges created by Covid-19, as well as opportunities emerging in a changed business landscape.
Strong interest and participation in the conference reflects a growing awareness of the importance of CSR and sustainability in enhancing business strategies and fostering innovation, he said, adding that the Centre for Responsible Business – since its establishment in 2004 – has played a crucial role in promoting responsible business practices and offering guidance to companies.
For his part, Dr. Kamel Mellahi, Senior Manager at Dubai Chamber’s Centre for Responsible Business, said sustainability, business continuity and competitiveness are inextricably linked and must go hand in hand. Sustainability, he noted, is more than just good business ethics but a key component of any resilient business model, and advised businesses to make and keep sustainability a top priority during Covid-19 and beyond.
Source/Image Credit: Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry
