Preparations in full swing for fourth annual investment meeting in Dubai

Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, UAE Minister of Economy has hailed UAE's tremendous success that surpassed expectations of the most optimistic economists, strengthening its position on the regional and international economic scene.Al Mansoori made the remarks in connection with the preparations for the 4th Annual Investment Meeting (AIM), which will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 8th - 10th April under the patronage of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.He said the UAE had opened new horizons for new direct investment with the aim of accelerating diversification of economy. Al Mansoori added that the AIM, which will review direct investment opportunities in the UAE for Arabs and foreigners, "is a reflection to the Ministry's efforts in this regard." He described the event as an ideal platform to showcase direct investment opportunities available in various emerging markets around the world.AIM is being held in the UAE at a time when the country has recorded 4 per cent GDP growth, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), totalling AED 1.4 trillion, which is considered a significant achievement against the instability in many economic markets.Al Mansoori said that non-oil sectors had the highest share of contribution to this remarkable growth, where sectors like tourism, industry, finance, and trade were the biggest contributors.The 4th AIM will highlight Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in various sectors, including tourism, industry, finance, trade, education, telecommunications and real estate development, entertainment, retail and others."Our reading is that the UAE markets will become more favorable for foreign investments in 2014 in most non-oil sectors, especially tourism, real estate and financial sectors. Moreover, events like the AIM, will help boost this growth," Al Mansoori added.Dawood Al Shezawi, CEO, AIM Organising Committee commented, "Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming AIM. Many delegations have confirmed participation in the event that will also attract ministers of economy, undersecretaries, high-level economists, financial analysts, specialists in various fields of investment, government officials as well as decision-makers from the public and private sectors." It is expected that AIM will see attendance of representatives from 120 countries and attract more than 10,000 visitors.AIM, which will include discussion on China investments, will present case studies about investment practices in emerging markets. It will also highlight best practices and investment fundamentals in today's world. It will also witness the launch of the 2013 FDI Report.In addition, the event will throw light on legislative and regulatory frameworks for investment, as well as hold seminars on topics related with direct investments in emerging markets.