Dubai Chambers appoints new president and CEO

Dubai Chambers has appointed Mohammad Ali bin Rashed Lootah as its new president and CEO, effective October 24.

His appointment comes after Hamad Buamim, the chamber’s president and CEO for 16 years, stepped down in August.

Read: Hamad Buamim to step down as president and CEO of Dubai Chambers

Lootah has held a series of prominent positions during his career, having most recently served as the CEO of commercial compliance and consumer protection, as well as acting executive director of the commercial registration and licensing sector, at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

We have appointed Mohammad Ali bin Rashed Lootah as President and CEO of Dubai Chambers. Lootah will be tasked with leading Dubai Chambers in the stages
ahead and overseeing the implementation of its initiatives and strategic plans.

— Dubai Chambers (@DubaiChambers) September 23, 2022

“The appointment of a new president and CEO will add to the chambers’ creative capacities and bring in new leadership, capable of setting policies and implementing strategic plans,” said Abdul-Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, chairman of Dubai Chambers.

Lootah will lead the chambers in overseeing the implementation of initiatives and strategic plans, it said in a statement.

“Dubai Chambers enjoys a reputable position within the local and international business communities,” added Lootah. “I look forward to continuing on this successful path and working with all teams to safeguard the achievements and progress that have been made so far, and to pave the way for more accomplishments in the future.”

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, approved the legislations earlier this year, which included a decree establishing Dubai Chambers as a new entity.

Read: Sheikh Mohammed issues decrees regulating Dubai Chambers

Under the new structure, three chambers of commerce operate under Dubai Chambers, namely Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai International Chamber and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.

Over 27,100 new companies have joined Dubai Chamber of Commerce in the first eight months of 2022, recording a 69 per cent year-over-year rise.

Read: Dubai Chamber of Commerce records 69% rise in new members through August