The German Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK) hosted a highly successful event on September 25, 2024, designed to welcome over 100 newcomers to the UAE. Held at the stylish DRVN by PORSCHE in Dubai, the evening offered newly arrived expatriates a valuable introduction to life in the UAE, complemented by expert insights and a strong networking platform.
A Warm Welcome to the UAE Expat Community
The event provided an excellent opportunity for expats to gather essential information about their new surroundings, while also meeting fellow newcomers, seasoned expats, and local service providers. The evening’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere was filled with lively discussions, practical advice, and new connections.
As part of the event, attendees were able to explore various company booths and interact with businesses offering services specifically tailored to expatriates. This initial networking set the tone for the evening, allowing participants to gain useful insights and meet key contacts that would help make their transition smoother.
Insights from Industry Experts
The presentations began with a warm welcome from Oliver Oehms, CEO of the German Emirati Joint Council for Industry & Commerce (AHK), who introduced newcomers to the UAE and emphasized AHK’s ongoing role in supporting expatriates through various initiatives. Manfred Braeunl, CEO of Porsche Middle East, also addressed the audience, sharing his insights on the UAE’s dynamic business environment and welcoming attendees to the Porsche-hosted venue. Both speeches set a positive tone for the evening, highlighting the strong partnership between the UAE and Germany and the many opportunities available for expatriates.
emltc Emerging Solutions followed with an informative overview of the UAE’s legal landscape, offering newcomers a clear understanding of the legal environment for living and doing business in the UAE. This session provided invaluable guidance for those looking to navigate the country’s regulatory framework.
Next, SESAM Immigration took the stage to discuss the UAE’s Golden Visa, a topic of great interest to many attendees seeking long-term residency options. Their presentation shed light on the eligibility and application processes, helping expats understand how to secure this coveted visa.
The real estate sector was covered by Tribeca Real Estate, who gave an insightful introduction to the Dubai real estate market. They discussed property investment opportunities and provided tips for those looking to buy or rent in the city, offering valuable advice for newcomers still getting acquainted with the housing landscape.
Following this, Lufthansa Group delivered a presentation that explored new business opportunities in the region, highlighting the growing connectivity between Europe and the Middle East. Their session emphasized the strategic role that the UAE plays in the global business and travel landscape, offering attendees a broader view of potential growth areas.
The final presentation of the evening was delivered by Dr. Oliver Wirth, a leadership and executive coach, who closed the evening with an inspiring talk on "Riding the Dunes: Creating Success at the Intersection of Planning and Serendipity." His presentation encouraged attendees to embrace both structured planning and unexpected opportunities to thrive in their new environment, leaving them with a sense of motivation and confidence as they embark on their UAE journey.
A Platform for Networking and Growth
The presentations were followed by an extended networking reception, where attendees had the chance to continue their conversations, ask follow-up questions, and build deeper connections with the companies and fellow expats they met earlier in the evening. This informal, yet dynamic, networking session was one of the most appreciated aspects of the event, providing newcomers with an invaluable platform to make meaningful connections in their new community.
The event’s success was not only in the number of attendees but also in the strength of the interactions and the quality of the information shared. Participants left feeling more confident about their new life in the UAE and with a wealth of contacts to support them in their journey.
A Big Thank You to Our Sponsors
The success of this event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, whose contributions helped create an impactful evening. We extend our sincere thanks to:
- Blacklane
- Deutsche Schule Dubai
- Deltakap
- Envoy Global
- Extent
- GEMS Education
- Goethe Institute
- German Dental & Neuromuscular Clinic
- Healthbay Clinic
- Porsche Middle East
- Richard Mittag
- Sesam Immigration
- Sky Clinic
- Tribeca Real Estate
Their dedication and support were instrumental in making the event a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Looking Ahead
AHK remains committed to supporting expatriates in the UAE by organizing similar events aimed at fostering strong community ties and providing practical resources. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants shows that this event was not only informative but also an essential opportunity to build connections that will help newcomers thrive in the UAE.
We look forward to welcoming even more newcomers at our next event and continuing to play a central role in their journey in this exciting country.