UAE Professional Associations: Empowering Business Growth in the United Arab Emirates

UAE Professional Associations serve as pivotal entities in the United Arab Emirates, driving business growth and innovation. From the ICC UAE Commissions to the Dubai Association Centre, these professional organizations foster collaboration among various sectors. Notably, associations like the Sri Lankan Professionals Association and the US-UAE Business Council represent diverse business interests, making it essential to explore the extensive list of professional associations contributing to the region’s dynamic economy.

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UAE Professional Associations

UAE Professional Associations play a vital role in enhancing the business landscape of the United Arab Emirates. These organizations provide a platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among professionals across various industries. With entities such as the Dubai Association Centre and ICC UAE, professionals can access resources that facilitate growth and innovation. Associations like the US-UAE Business Council and the Sri Lankan Professionals Association represent diverse sectors and cultural communities, fostering inclusive business practices.

By promoting best practices and offering valuable training opportunities, UAE Professional Associations empower individuals and businesses to thrive within a competitive market. Moreover, they serve as a crucial link between businesses and regulatory bodies, ensuring that members stay informed about industry developments and policy changes. Ultimately, these associations are instrumental in shaping a vibrant and sustainable business environment in the Emirates. Where the profit scientific and professional associations can form a membership based on competition.

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IIIEM Export Import Training Center

Founded in 2008, IIIEM is recognized globally as a premier Export Import Training Center. The organization is dedicated to delivering high-quality training in international business, facilitated by expert faculty and mentors who possess significant experience in their fields. Their mission is to enhance the skills of young individuals, enabling them to showcase their innovative ideas on an international stage.

India, a hub of talent, is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030. With a vast working-age population, the nation is poised for substantial growth in the coming years. According to a report from EXIM Bank India, the country’s export-import sector has shown remarkable improvement over time. The Export to GDP ratio rose from 13.3% in FY2010 to 15.6% in FY2015. The Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 aims to boost India’s goods and services exports to $900 billion by 2020.

To capitalize on these opportunities, iiiEM is proactive in raising awareness about careers in the export and import sectors. This leading training center employs a distinctive approach to educating participants on international procedures and systems essential for establishing their ventures. Credit for iiiEM’s success goes to Mr. Dipak Sudhir Manohar, a graduate of Commerce and Law, who began his corporate career in 2003 and gained extensive experience in foreign trade.

Later, he founded an Export House, Manohar International (www.manoharinternational.com), which exports a diverse range of products to over 40 countries. With a wealth of knowledge and insights, he has become both the Founder and Director of one of India’s most esteemed Export Houses and Training Centers.

Committed to their mission of “Building Exporters Worldwide,” iiiEM’s dedicated faculty is passionate about imparting a strong knowledge foundation along with hands-on training in international business. All mentors at iiiEM bring extensive mentoring experience across various levels and relevant subjects.

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Dubai Association Center

The Dubai Association Centre (DAC) was established by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai Business Events (a division of the Department for Tourism and Commerce Marketing), and the Dubai World Trade Centre. Its mission is to support the formation of non-profit, apolitical, and non-religious professional associations and trade organizations within the Emirate of Dubai.

In the last twenty years, Dubai UAE has emerged as the headquarters for numerous multinational corporations in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. As a result, an increasing number of international associations have convened in the Emirate to collaborate, share knowledge, and network effectively.

DAC facilitates a structured environment for associations to set up operations in Dubai, allowing industry professionals who are registered in the Emirate to create member-based organizations. Additionally, it offers a foundation for international associations to establish regional representative offices in Dubai for conducting business throughout the UAE and beyond.

Consequently, associations can leverage economies of scale, gain insights from the association marketplace, and benefit from flexibility, buying power, and centralized services available at the Dubai Association Centre. To initiate the process, interested parties should approach the Dubai Chamber of Commerce through the appropriate channels and submit their DAC application.

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Licensing Requirements for Global and Regional Associations

The following requirements must be met for licensing global and regional associations:

• An official letter addressed to the Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, detailing the Board of Directors’ decision regarding association establishment and naming the Executive Director or designated manager.
• A Memorandum of Association.
• A list of all current members residing in the UAE.
• An annual financial report.
• A profile outlining the proposed activities of the association.

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Renewal Requirements for Global and Regional Associations Licenses

To renew licenses for global and regional associations, the following must be submitted:

• An updated list of committee members, including Emirates ID numbers, along with the General Membership List and their contact information.
• An audited financial report.
• A report on activities planned for the upcoming year.
• Minutes from the Annual General Meeting or General Assembly Meeting (to be submitted after the meeting).
• A copy of the leasing contract with DWTC or an official letter confirming the engagement of an association management company.

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International Federation of Accountants (IFAC)

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) is dedicated to promoting the development, adoption, and implementation of high-quality international standards within the accounting profession. They aim to proactively prepare the accountancy profession for the future while serving as the representative voice of accountants worldwide.

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Accountants and Auditors Association (AAA)

Established under Federal Decree No. 227 of 1997, the Accountants and Auditors Association (AAA) is recognized as a not-for-profit professional accountancy organization in the UAE. The Association includes a diverse membership of accountants, auditors, firms, and students. The members of AAA primarily consist of professional accountants engaged in various business sectors.

They provide a broad array of services, which encompass accounting and bookkeeping, auditing, Value Added Tax (VAT) consultancy, Economic Substance Requirements (ESR) consultancy, financial management, banking, internal auditing, legal services, management accounting, accounting education, and IT services related to accounting. AAA’s key responsibilities involve:

• Creating and offering continuing professional development (CPD) programs.
• Ensuring that members adhere to established accounting, auditing, and ethical standards, as well as compliance with CPD requirements.
• Engaging in activities that foster high professional standards and enhance the quality of the profession.

Furthermore, AAA members must comply with the Association’s ethical guidelines and are subject to its investigation and disciplinary (I&D) procedures.

Since 2014, AAA has offered a qualification for Chartered Accountants known as the UAE Chartered Accountant (UAECA). Given that the UAE has a significant expatriate population, many AAA members also belong to other international professional accountancy organizations (PAOs) operating within the UAE and are governed by their respective rules and regulations.

As an Associate member of IFAC, AAA is also affiliated with the Arab Federation of Accountants and Auditors (AFAA) and the Gulf Cooperation Council Accounting and Auditing Organization (GCCAAO).

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Statements of Membership Obligation (SMO)

The Statements of Membership Obligations form the foundation of IFAC’s Member Compliance Program. They provide a framework for professional accountancy organizations to ensure credibility and quality while focusing on public interest. This includes the adoption and support of international standards and the maintenance of sufficient enforcement mechanisms to uphold the professional conduct of their members.

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US-UAE Business Council

The US-UAE Business Council creates value by utilizing its vast networks in the United States and the surrounding region. It offers exceptional access to high-ranking decision-makers in both the business sector and government, intending to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities.

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UAE Professional Consultants Associations

Here are some notable Business Consultants Associations in the United Arab Emirates:

Dubai Women Business Council

This council aims to empower business and professional women in Dubai to engage across various sectors, thereby enhancing their contribution, productivity, and overall activity in the UAE business landscape.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry

This service allows users to make inquiries online by connecting directly to the Chamber’s database through phone lines only.

Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Provides comprehensive information about the UAE and Abu Dhabi, including details on business, trade, economic and investment opportunities, seminars, exhibitions, training programs, and other related activities.

Indus Entrepreneurs TIE Dubai

A global non-profit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship.

Arab Trade Financing Program

Offers financing solutions for exports and imports among Arab countries, along with information on trade opportunities, program highlights, statistics, and standard codes.

Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Engaged in the planning and development of commercial infrastructure within the Emirates, featuring profiles, news, reports, tips on conducting business in the Emirate, a business directory, and more.

American Business Council Dubai

This non-profit organization fosters trade and investment relations between the USA and the UAE, providing a member directory, news updates, and membership details.

Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry

Represents the collective interests of the UAE’s chambers of commerce and industry.

British Business Group

Aims to promote business development between Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Business Leaders

Offers various incentives and programs to support the local business community, catering to both existing entrepreneurs and those just starting.

Swiss Business Council

Facilitates commercial and cultural ties with Switzerland, with chapters in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It provides information about both chapters, business opportunities, and contact details.

Jafza International: Jebel Ali Free Zone International

Provides consultancy and technical advisory services for overseas governments looking to establish trade zones within their territories.

Abu Dhabi Business Women Council Website

Offers insights into the Business Women Council in Abu Dhabi, UAE, including its foundation, members, activities, events, and more.

Dubai Multi Commodities Center

Acts as the commodities marketplace in Dubai, supplying industry-specific market infrastructure and a comprehensive range of services for the commodities sector.

Dubai Outsource Zone

Offers a robust infrastructure and environment for outsourcing and offshoring companies to establish global or regional hubs that cater to the international market.

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UAE Professional Associations and Networking Information

Here are various professional business associations and networking opportunities available in the UAE:

Turkish Business Council of Dubai and the Northern Emirates

This organization promotes the interests and activities of Turkish businesses in Dubai, facilitating the growth of these enterprises and enhancing trade relations between Turkey and the UAE. It is located at the Al Barsha Business Center Building.

Iranian Business Council

This non-profit entity focuses on strengthening business connections between Iran and the UAE. It helps facilitate communication between the UAE government and IBC members and organizes various networking events. The council’s offices are situated in Umm Hurair 2, near Dubai Heal.

Indian Business and Professional Council

This council advocates for the commercial interests of Indian businesses and professionals in Dubai. It originated from three separate organizations: The Indian Business Council, the Overseas Indians Economic Forum, and the Business and Professional Club. The council is located at the Dubai World Trade Center.

Spanish Business Council

As a non-profit organization, the Spanish Business Council promotes the commercial interests of Spanish firms in the UAE. It organizes monthly networking meetings and luncheons for members.

British Business Group Dubai and Northern Emirates

This member-driven association works to promote business collaboration between Dubai and British companies. It arranges weekly social and networking events, with its office located at the British Embassy on Al Seef Road.

German Business Council

A non-profit association, the German Business Council fosters relationships and awareness between German businesses and the local business community. It organizes both social and business networking events and is situated in Port Saeed at Entrepreneur Business Village.

Swedish Business Council

This council supports and promotes the interests of Swedish businesses in the UAE and organizes networking opportunities for Swedish professionals. It works closely with the Swedish Trade Council to assist the local community of Swedish businesses, operating Sunday through Thursday from 09:00 to 15:00.

Search in Mena

Located in Silicon Oasis, this organization provides consulting services, advertising, call center operations, translation, software solutions, bedroom furniture, tea and coffee, landscaping, fresh fruits, souvenirs, wood furniture, labor and employment consulting, corn gluten meal, and salt licks.

Canadian Business Council of Dubai and the Northern Emirates

This non-profit organization helps Canadian entrepreneurs increase awareness of Canadian firms operating in the region. It is located in the United Bank Building in Bur Dubai.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Dedicated to supporting the international business community’s growth in Dubai, the chamber is open from Sunday to Thursday, 08:00 to 16:00, and Saturday, 08:00 to 13:00. The head office can be found on Baniyas Road in Deira, with additional branches in Jebel Ali, JAFZA, DAFZA, Al Awir, and Al Twar.

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UAE Professional Associations are vital in driving business growth and fostering innovation in the United Arab Emirates. With hubs like the Dubai Association Centre and organizations such as ICC UAE and the US-UAE Business Council, these professional organizations actively support various sectors. From the Sri Lankan Professionals Association to various UAE trade associations, they represent diverse business interests and enhance collaboration. By engaging with the comprehensive list of professional associations, individuals and businesses can leverage resources and networks to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.