British Business Group becomes British Chamber of Commerce Dubai
Picture used for illustrative purposes.
Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter
As a significant milestone, the British Business Group Dubai and Northern Emirates (BBG) adopting the title of Chamber of Commerce. Endorsed by Dubai Chambers and the British Chambers of Commerce, the group will be known as the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai.
Representing British businesses in Dubai and the Northern Emirates since 1997, the group has provided a dedicated and consistent platform for creating stronger trade relations between the UK and UAE.The transition to Chamber follows the group’s recent success, winning second place in the British Chambers of Commerce Best International Chamber of the Year.
The award was also commended by Dubai Chambers as a testament to the substantial and significant support BBG has offered to British businesses in Dubai.
Speaking about the development, Andrew Mortimer, Chair and CEO of the BBG said, “The change to British Chamber of Commerce Dubai is hugely significant for the group and marks a point of real transformation in the history of the BBG. The process to be recognised as a Chamber by name also really embodies the strong working relationship we have with Dubai Chambers and their support of our growth and recognition of the work that we do for UAE and UK bilateral trade.”
On a personal note, Mortimer continued, “I have been really invested in this journey with the BBG for the last six years, taking it from a dwindling Business Group to a successful Chamber in close collaboration with the other members of the Board and an incredible and talented Business Team. I am so proud of the footprint and credibility we have now achieved and excited for the opportunities it brings for our members and stakeholders.”
Katy Holmes, General Manager of BBG added, “It is a huge privilege to be part of this transition to Chamber for the BBG. Working closely with our key stakeholders, I will ensure that the change to the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai will preserve the rich history of the group and stay true to the values and proposition of supporting British business in Dubai.
Being recognised as a British Chamber of Commerce will present immense potential for growth, collaboration and continued advancement for the group and our membership.”
The change will see the group align with the international business practices and standards followed by other Chambers of Commerce worldwide.
The British Chamber of Commerce will enhance collaboration between British businesses and Dubai by continuing to leverage business opportunities that boost bilateral trade and investments. In early 2023 the Dubai International Chamber – one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers – inaugurated a new representative office in London to further cement the ties between both markets.
The nationwide network of accredited chambers, the British Chambers of Commerce, has also expressed its support for the transition, recognising the potential for increased collaboration and synergy for British businesses in Dubai. The name change to British Chamber of Dubai will be effective from the first quarter of 2024.
