Prominent Emirati businessman Khalaf Ahmed Al Habtoor called for the exchange of practical expertise in the field of construction between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and for Saudi Arabia to benefit from the massive urban development boom that has taken place in the Emirate of Dubai; through practical workshops and the exchange of skilled professionals. Al Habtoor emphasized this during a reception for Saudi businessmen and investors at the Hilton Al Habtoor City Hotel as part of the «Partners for Success» program’s visit to Dubai, the importance of involving young people in the management of the country’s major projects to benefit from their energy and ideas.
Al Habtoor: Businessmen Are the True Ambassadors
At the start of his remarks, Al Habtoor welcomed the Saudi businessmen to their host country, the UAE, which he described as the jewel of the world and a safe investment destination, emphasizing the importance of these friendly visits, which strengthen the deep, long-standing ties between the two countries, Al Habtoor considered businesspeople to be the true ambassadors of their countries through their conduct, good manners, honesty, integrity, and transparency—qualities that form the essence of every transaction. He expressed his full willingness and readiness to assist and support the members by providing consultation, guidance, and accurate information for investing in Dubai.
Al Habtoor said that Dubai is a "blessed" country located between Asia and Europe, and advised young investors to invest in all sectors after thoroughly studying the project, noting that Dubai welcomes all types of investments, He noted that before the discovery of oil, the region was the largest source of gold. Regarding the viability of investment, Al Habtoor explained that it is sufficient to note that Dubai Mall has welcomed 80 million visitors in a short period of time.
The solution lies in simplifying the problem
Speaking about his personal experience, Khalaf Al Habtoor revealed that he does not believe in reading resumes, even if they are filled with degrees from the most prestigious international universities such as Harvard; but rather he reads and scrutinizes the person behind the resume because he wants productive staff and, above all, practical individuals.
In response to the question, "How does Khalaf Al Habtoor handle crises?" Al Habtoor explained that Dubai was one of the regions least affected by the financial crisis that hit the world in 2008, adding that he follows an approach of "simplifying and minimizing the problem," The businessman advised against listening to pessimists because they hold you back, and emphasized the need to surround yourself with optimists because they propel you forward, noting at the same time that decision-making in such crises requires a strong leader who believes in his project and vision.
Al-Sudairi: Our relationships are stronger than interests and deals
For his part, and on behalf of the businessmen and businesswomen, Ahmed bin Bandar Al-Sudairi delivered a speech in which he expressed their delight at being in the beloved United Arab Emirates, and the development it is witnessing in the fields of construction, building, and the hospitality industry. He also expressed his gratitude for the hospitality and warm welcome, as well as to the loyal people of the UAE.
Counselor Abdullah Al-Mohsen, a member of «Partners for Success,» then addressed the audience, emphasizing that what unites the two peoples (Saudi and Emirati) is greater than fleeting interests or commercial deals, noting that the visit by "Partners for Success" was intended to strengthen the values of economic cooperation between the two sides. Al Mohsen said "We operate within an integrated framework established by the leaders of both countries, may God protect them, and we are helping to implement it on the ground." At the conclusion of his speech, Al Mohsen extended his thanks, on behalf of the members, to businessman Khalaf Ahmed Al Habtoor, one of the leading figures in the UAE’s economy. Businessman Abdullah Al-Dubaikhi presented Al Habtoor with a gift of seasonal dates from the Al-Qassim region.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the members of “Partners for Success” hosted businessman Khalaf Al Habtoor for lunch, expressing their loyalty and appreciation to him, and business discussions continued among the attendees.
