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Dubai strengthens reputation for resilience and agility
Business councils voice confidence in emirate’s diversified economy, proactive governance, and close public–private coordination amid regional uncertainty
- PUBLISHED: Sun 22 Mar 2026, 10:04 PM UPDATED: Sun 22 Mar 2026, 10:53 PM
Dubai’s diversified economy, proactive governance, and close public–private coordination are sustaining investor confidence and keeping growth on track. According to leaders of country business councils operating under the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the emirate continues to consolidate its status as a global benchmark for resilience and agility amid shifting international dynamics.
Siddharth Balachandran, Chairman of the Indian Business & Professional Council (IBPC), said the city’s long-term vision is matched by disciplined execution. “Even in the current scenario, I feel a sense of overarching calm and focus when it comes to my investment decisions… This reflects my absolute confidence in Dubai and its long-term macroeconomic fundamentals,” he said.
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Katy Keenan, CEO of the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (British Business Group), underscored the role of infrastructure and FDI in maintaining momentum. “The ability to maintain growth momentum amidst this regional crisis will depend on continued investment in infrastructure and steady foreign direct investment… there is confidence and a record of resilience and recovery that should support growth momentum,” Keenan noted, adding that clear, compassionate government communications help businesses plan.
Turkish Business Council Chairman Kanat Kutluk said Dubai’s openness to trade and investment continues to bear fruit. “Even in times of global uncertainty, Dubai continues to provide a stable and dynamic environment where businesses from around the world can grow with confidence,” he said, pointing to expanding UAE–Türkiye trade and partnerships.
For Malaysia, confidence is anchored in leadership clarity and institutional strength, said Fahmy Ansara Dahalan, Chairman of the Malaysian Business Council UAE. “What stands out is the clarity of the leadership’s vision, together with a consistent commitment to refining and upgrading systems, policies, and infrastructure so that the country remains aligned with global developments and future opportunities,” he said.
Belgian Business Council Chairwoman Peggy Scherpenberg highlighted a resilience built on diversification and decisiveness. “Dubai’s record speaks for itself… the city isn’t just resilient, it’s built on a base that allows it to adapt and thrive, even when the world is unpredictable,” she said, citing transparent communications and swift institutional responses that keep companies informed and confident.
Austrian Business Council Chairman Werner Baumgartner said Dubai’s trajectory has elevated it beyond a regional node. Dubai, he said, “is no longer simply a regional city, but has become a global platform for business, talent, capital, and innovation,” adding that regular engagement with Dubai Chamber and the Ministry of Foreign Trade reinforces a shared sense of purpose.
Dr. Feras Adel Alsalem, Chairman of the Kuwait Business Council, emphasized the importance of coordination. “Dubai has proven to be efficient in maintaining growth and business momentum during challenging times. We have good faith in the local government authorities to drive us back to safety and away from any turbulent situation,” he said.
Suren Swaminathan, Chairman of the Sri Lankan Business Council, drew on four decades in the city to underline its adaptability. “Dubai has repeatedly shown that it does not simply react to challenges, but often identifies opportunities in the midst of them,” he said, crediting visionary leadership and a progressive regulatory framework.
Evangeline Monjardin, Chairwoman of the Philippine Business Council, said clear guidance and streamlined regulation are helping sectors manage supply-chain volatility. “Dubai’s economy is underpinned by proactive policies, strong institutional readiness, and robust public-private collaboration… This framework is particularly reassuring,” she said.
Pakistan Business Council Chairman Muhammad Shabbir said the emirate’s diversified base enables swift, steady responses. “Dubai’s economic model has consistently demonstrated a remarkable level of resilience and adaptability,” he said, noting that transparent rules and continuous dialogue between government and business have strengthened confidence.
Collectively, the councils credited Dubai’s institutional readiness, transparent communication, and collaborative policymaking with turning external pressures into opportunities—reinforcing the emirate’s role as a trusted global hub for trade, investment, and innovation.
Associate Editor Somshankar Bandyopadhyay brings more than three decades of experience to the KT newsroom. Currently, he manages the news production of the business section, ensuring that the top economic and business news of the day reaches its readers.
