Emirates Development Bank (EDB) hosted the fourth edition of its EDB Connect forum series at the Mövenpick Resort – Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK).
The event, held in partnership with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology’s ‘Make it in the Emirates” initiative, convened key stakeholders from both government entities and private sector companies to foster collaboration and drive the UAE’s national economic growth and diversification.
Under the theme ‘Forging Partnerships for a Competitive and Diversified Ras Al Khaimah Economy,’ the forum featured insightful panel discussions, a fireside chat, and ample networking opportunities.
Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Development Bank, emphasised the importance of EDB Connect as an ideal platform to discuss economic trends and foster collaborations aligning with Ras Al Khaimah’s economic goals and the nation’s future growth trajectory. “We recognise Ras Al Khaimah as a critical component in the national development j
ourney. Today’s event showcased our collective efforts as partners driving significant economic impact for the emirate and the broader UAE. The consistent year-over-year increase in our financing underscores the success of our partnership-driven approach and our strategic focus on driving innovation and industrial growth to support the UAE’s vision of a diversified and resilient economy,” he stated.
Dr. Abdul Rahman Al Shayeb Al Naqbi, Director-General of the Department of Economic Development in Ras Al Khaimah, commended the Bank’s adept coordination of meetings between local and federal entities, as well as between the private and public sectors.
Dr. Al Naqbi emphasised that such forums offer a valuable opportunity to learn about the supportive programs and efforts provided by federal and local authorities to drive economic growth and achieve the UAE’s national economic diversification goals.
Mohamed Ali Musabbeh Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stressed that the in
itiative reinforces the approach followed by the Chamber in fostering collaborations with local and international partners, especially banking entities, as they play a pivotal role in propelling the economic development and prosperity in Ras Al Khaimah.
He added that the partnership reflects the commitment of both entities to strengthen understanding and cooperation, in turn benefiting the business community and unlocking investment opportunities for companies locally, regionally, and internationally.
During the event, EDB announced two strategic agreements, one with Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and another with Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), aimed at accelerating the growth of industrial businesses in the Emirate.
Shaker Zainal, Chief Business Officer of EDB, moderated the first panel titled ‘Driving Sustainable Growth: Nurturing an Attractive Business and Investment Environment in Ras Al Khaimah,’ which explored strategies necessary for fostering economic development in the vibrant emirate.
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he second panel, ‘The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Advancing Ras Al Khaimah’s Economy and Industrial Scene,’ examined the synergies between public and private sectors in driving economic and industrial growth in Ras Al Khaimah.
The forum featured industry leaders representing various sectors, including the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology; the Ministry of Economy; Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce; Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ); the Supreme Committee of RAK SME; Etihad Credit Insurance; ADEX; and RAK BANK.
The event concluded with an award ceremony recognising key stakeholders and strategic partners who have significantly contributed to Ras Al Khaimah’s economic development.
Source: Emirates News Agency