Dubai Holding sponsors Middle East Business Achievement Awards

DUBAI, 20 October 2007: Dubai Holding today announced its official sponsorship of the Middle East Business Achievement Awards (MEBAA), as part of its commitment to nurture excellence in business performance.

The Awards, which recognise and reward outstanding success, innovation and best business practice across the Middle East, will be handed out at the Leaders in Dubai Business Forum 2007 gala dinner on November 18.

Fadel Al Ali, Executive Chairman, Dubai Holding Operations said: "We are proud to sponsor the Middle East Business Achievement Awards (MEBAA) that bring together regional business leaders to honour innovation and excellence. Our partnership with MEBAA sets the seal on what will be a high-profile event recognising outstanding regional businesses.

"Dubai Holding believes recognition is a key motivating factor to raise the bar of corporate excellence. With this in mind, we have implemented several programmes, including Leadon, which seek to develop people with high potential".

Alan Kelly, Event Director, MEBAA, said Dubai Holding's support has significantly enhanced the status of the awards.

"Winning one of these awards will indeed be a special honour. We encourage all business leaders to come forward and submit entries that best validate their accomplishments. The ceremony this year will additionally honour two very special individuals," he said.

An award for 'Outstanding International Contribution by a Middle East Business Leader' will be made to a regional personality in recognition of his/her contribution to fostering better East-West relations, providing aid in times of crisis and alleviating poverty and other forms of suffering throughout the world.

The 'Lifetime Award for Leadership Excellence' will provide special recognition to an individual who has provided unparalleled and outstanding guidance, encompassing confidence, assertiveness, mutual respect, innovation and remarkable achievement during a lifetime.

Alan Kelly said the special awards recognise inspirational business leaders in the region who act as role models for the rest of the community. "They are the people who encourage others to succeed. These two special awards are not open for public nominations," he added.

The 12 categories open for public nominations are:
• Best E-Government Programme Award
• International Trade Award
• Marketing Excellence Award
• Recommended Employer Award
• Environmental Contribution Award
• Corporate Social Responsibility Award
• Best Small Business of the Year Award
• Best Family Business of the Year Award
• Best New Business of the Year Award
• Entrepreneur of the Year Award
• Businessman of the Year Awards
• Businesswoman of the Year Awards