The German Emirati Joint Council for Industry & Commerce (AHK) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 10 June in Abu Dhabi, bringing together members, board representatives, partners, and distinguished guests to reflect on the chamber’s activities, achievements, and continued growth over the past year.
The meeting was opened by Faisal Al Amiri, Member of the AHK Board of Directors, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of the AHK’s role in supporting the German business community in the UAE and strengthening economic ties between Germany and the United Arab Emirates.
Dr. Martin Henkelmann, CEO of the AHK, presented the chamber’s Activity Report and provided an overview of key developments, initiatives, and achievements in 2025. He highlighted the AHK’s continued efforts to support German companies in the region, foster bilateral trade and investment, and create platforms for dialogue between business, government, and industry.
As part of the formal proceedings, members confirmed the appointment of Hussein Shoukry, Managing Director of Siemens Energy Middle East & Africa, and Helmut von Struve, CEO of Siemens Middle East & UAE, as new members of the AHK Board of Directors. Their extensive experience and leadership will further strengthen the chamber’s strategic direction and support its mission of advancing German-UAE economic cooperation. We warmly welcome both to the Board and look forward to working with them in the years ahead.
Following the AGM, guests gathered for the AHK Business & Diplomacy Dialogue, one of the chamber’s flagship networking and exchange platforms. After opening remarks by Dr. Henkelmann, attendees had the honour of welcoming H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism, for a keynote address.
In his remarks, H.E. Al Saleh underscored the strength of the economic partnership between Germany and the UAE and highlighted the many opportunities for further collaboration in trade, investment, innovation, advanced technologies, and future-focused industries. His address reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to maintaining a business-friendly environment and deepening international economic cooperation.
A special highlight of the evening was a fireside conversation featuring H.E. Alexander Schoenfelder, Ambassador of Germany to the UAE, and H.E. Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of Germany. In a personal and engaging discussion, both reflected on their four years in the UAE, sharing memorable experiences, observations, and insights into the close relationship between Germany and the Emirates.
As both H.E. Ambassador Schoenfelder and H.E. Consul General Pfaff will conclude their postings this summer, the event also served as an opportunity to express the AHK’s sincere gratitude for their unwavering support of the German business community and their outstanding contribution to strengthening German-UAE relations.
On behalf of its members and partners, the AHK extends its heartfelt thanks for the trust, partnership, and friendship they have fostered throughout their tenure. Their dedication has played an important role in advancing bilateral cooperation and creating new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
The AHK looks forward to continuing its work as a bridge between Germany and the UAE, supporting trade, investment, innovation, and sustainable economic growth while further strengthening the longstanding partnership between both nations.
