Int'l CSR conference calls for Islamic perspective

The DCCV team gave a talk recently at the University of Cranfield, UK, attended by academics, students and experts who shared experiences and discussed the business of sustainability and responsibility.

The event was held as part of the Doughty Centre Workshop, with an agenda of meetings concerning the principles of businesses in today's global environment.

Najeeb Mohammed Al Ali, executive director of DCCV said: "Dubai has become a globally competitive city, continuously attracting multinationals to this part of the world. In bringing to light how companies can further understand the local criteria of CSR, not only do we demonstrate our commitment to the cause but also our cooperation to acknowledge a global presence.

"The teachings of Islam dictate that corporate social responsibility is an integral component of life whereby giving back to the community is of utmost importance. While we are faced with a backdrop of global challenges including multicultural diversity, companies need to incorporate religion for best CSR practice. Attending this workshop provides a collaborative approach with others in tackling these issues."

The workshop discussed several scenarios of how the global sustainability debate and practice may evolve over the next 20 years while recognising that attitudes both within and towards business have changed dramatically over the past few decades on an international level.

DCCV recently released its first annual corporate social responsibility report, illustrating data that is collected through focus groups and surveys. The report was published by TECOM Investments, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) addressing the economic, environmental and social performance of each of the entities.