Al Gergawi chosen one of 12 mentors for World Economic Forum on growth in China

DUBAI, 21 August 2007:  HE Mohammad Al Gergawi, Executive Chairman of Dubai Holding, has been selected as one of the 12 mentors of the 'World Economic Forum on Growth' to be held in Dalian, north-eastern China, from 6-8 September 2007.

The choice of Al Gergawi for this role, the only Arab among the mentors, reflects his tireless efforts in launching and managing giant economic entities which match global standards, and have led to fundamental shifts in the Arab economic scenario. The mentors list includes Craig Barrett, Chairman of Intel Corporation, US, and Sir Martin Sorrell, Group Chief Executive, WPP, United Kingdom.

Al Gergawi will participate as a key speaker at the Forum's sessions, where there will be ample opportunities to exchange views with participants including government officials as well as the world media. He will also participate in two press conferences to be held during the opening and closing sessions of the Forum.

Al Gergawi said: "The UAE has become a major growth engine for the region's economy. The country has significantly contributed to making the Arab world an active business and commercial focal point, attracting investment and competing at the global level.

"We believe the World Economic Forum in China has come at an opportune time as China and the rest of Asia are playing an increasingly important role in balancing the global economy. The UAE, due to its economic and geographic advantages play an equally pivotal role in the global trade as well. This makes the UAE's participation in this forum essential."

He added: "In addition, the importance of Asia as an investment destination, and the accelerated economic growth in China and other Asian countries make it imperative that we change our perception of these states from just a source for skilled manpower to states with substantial investment capabilities. While Asian investments in the world are fast increasing, the share of Arab region is still negligent."

The World Economic Forum on Growth, is also the inaugural Annual Meeting of Global Growth Companies, which will bring together emerging companies from around the world with the World Economic Forum's top experts and leaders of industry.

More than 300 companies from the new Global Growth Community will attend the forum in Dalian. These firms have demonstrated a clear potential to become leaders in the world economy within the next five years. The forum will host more than 1,200 participants including experts, leaders of industry and government officials.

Dubai Holding has been one of the strategic partners of the World Economic Forum. The partnership is in force since the beginning of World Economic Forum on Middle East in Dead Sea, Jordan, more than two years ago.