AI, disruptions, and legacies to feature at 4th Dubai Association Conference

Monday, February 26, 2024

The Dubai Association Conference 2024 is poised to bring together a dynamic assembly of association leaders, key stakeholders, government representatives, and strategic partners to explore the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), digital innovations, and future legacy planning. Scheduled for 27-28 February at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this conference aims to offer a worldwide stage for discussing innovative strategies, sharing best practices, and fostering collaborative efforts to enhance the impact of associations.

The fourth edition of the flagship event of the Dubai Association Centre (DAC) aims to create a path for associations to be at the forefront of value creation, both within and beyond their membership. Participants will learn successful member engagement strategies and sustainable practices to enhance their societal contributions and build a lasting legacy.

The event also offers a packed schedule of lively discussions, networking breaks, peer-to-peer sharing, and fireside chats that will explore association life and long-term plans within the dynamic context of Dubai.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, expressed that the association sector is crucial in today’s society as a primary catalyst for beneficial change, emphasizing that the DAC Conference will enhance its influence. He mentioned that the conference will cover essential themes and topics such as strategies for engaging members, the use of technology-driven tools, the adoption of sustainable practices, and the implementation of ethical governance.

These areas are seen as critical for associations to fulfill their roles in driving positive societal transformations through collaborative efforts and advocacy. Al Khaja also highlighted the conference’s impressive lineup of speakers, who will provide insights into trade and investment opportunities aimed at fostering sustainable economic and social progress. He noted Dubai’s strategic location and forward-thinking approach as key factors in its status as a global hub for associations, stating that the conference will explore ways to capitalize on this for future development.

Hassan Al Hashemi, Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, remarked on Dubai’s evolution from a busy trading port to a premier global center for commerce, innovation, and culture, attributing this growth to the city’s vision, determination, and cooperative spirit. He reflected on the creation of the Dubai Association Centre as a manifestation of this ethos, highlighting Dubai’s rich tapestry of diverse cultures, ideas, and ambitions.

Al Hashemi mentioned that Dubai Chambers’ backing of the annual DAC Conference aligns with its ongoing mission to broaden global trade ties, advocate for sustainable business models, and support the expansion of local enterprises. He acknowledged the indispensable role of associations in the business community and pointed out that the fourth iteration of the conference will serve as an important forum for reinforcing networks, forging new alliances, and influencing the direction of the business landscape.

The stellar line up of key speakers includes Hoda Barakat, President, International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property National Group (AIPPI-UAE); David Macadam, Chief Executive Officer, MECS+R; Mohamed Mezghani, Secretary General, International Association of Public Transport (UITP); and Philip K. Bell, President, Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA). They will be joined by local and international association leaders, such as Alaa Al Boali, Executive Director, Middle East Facility Management Association; Vicky Koffa, Deputy Director, Boardroom; and Anju Gomes, Middle East Regional Director, ICCA.

Speakers providing their insights as thought leaders in the association and meetings sectors will include: Mike van der Vijver, Conference Facilitator, MindMeeting; Geneviève Leclerc, Co-founder and CEO, #Meet4Impact; Martin Sirk, CEO, Sirk Serendipity; and Amy Hissrich, Vice President of International Affairs, ASAE.

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