Message from the Chief Executive Officer
Dear AmCham Dubai Members and Partners,
As we enter the final quarter of this landmark year, AmCham Dubai stands at the intersection of celebration, renewal, and forward momentum December will mark two extraordinary milestones the 13th Annual AmCham MENA Regional Conference and the 40th Anniversary Gala & I AmChampion Awards, all hosted at the One&Only Royal Mirage
Under the theme “One Region, One Voice: 40 Years of Impact,” this dual celebration unites 11 AmChams from across the MENA region, reaffirming our shared mission to advance U.S. business leadership, strengthen regional collaboration, and celebrate four decades of advocacy, excellence, and impact
As we honor this legacy, we also celebrate the people and programs shaping the next 40 years This quarter, our HR Committee’s Revive & Thrive Program, in partnership with Majlis Al Amal by Al Jalila Foundation, continues to empower women returning to the workforce a fitting reflection of our values during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Their resilience reminds us that behind every business achievement is a human story of courage, hope, and renewal
We also look ahead to AmCham Dubai’s Board Elections, an important opportunity for members to champion the future of American business in the UAE Serving on the Board is both a privilege and a responsibility a chance to shape our direction, represent your industries, and ensure that AmCham Dubai remains a leading voice for commercial diplomacy.
Finally, as membership renewals are now open, I encourage you to continue your engagement and investment in this dynamic community. Together, we have built something extraordinary a trusted network where business, innovation, and impact converge.
Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication I look forward to celebrating our shared successes with you as we close this historic year and to all that lies ahead in 2026.
Warm regards,
Cara Nazari Chief Executive Officer
AmCham Dubai
We are AMCHAM DUBAI
AmCham Dubai, also known as The American Business Council in Dubai, is the pioneering bilateral trade organization in the U.A.E. and duly licensed by the Dubai Chamber and a member of the Global Network of American Chambers of Commerce in Washington, DC.
THE EXECUTIVE TEAM
CARA NAZARI
ROULA HARB
HELENA HYDE
KATHY HYDE
www.amchamdubai.org
CignaUAECelebratesLeadership&Impactof EmiratiWomen
Dubai, August 28, 2025 – On Emirati Women’s Day, Cigna proudly honors the remarkable leadership of Emirati women acrossgovernment,science,entrepreneurship,andthecreative industries No longer just participants, they are now at the forefrontofshapingtheUAE’sfuture.
Inaspecialvideofeature,MaissaandFatimaembodythespirit of creativity, adaptability, and intentional leadership values deeplywovenintothefabricoftheEmiratiwoman’sidentity
DMCCCelebratesEmiratiWomen’sDay, HonouringLeadershipandLegacy
In celebration of Emirati Women’s Day, DMCC hosted a special event to honour the talent, diversity, and leadership of Emirati women Aligned with this year’s theme, ‘Hand in Hand, to Celebrate 50 Years’, the event underscored the pivotal role Emirati women play in driving progress both within DMCC and acrosstheUAE
A highlight of the event was a keynote address by Dr Maya Al Hawary,whosharedherinspiringinsightsonhowEmiratiwomen continuetolead,innovate,andshapethefutureofthenation
CONTENTS Q3
As a business or organization, you're always looking for opportunities to increase your exposure and connect with industry leaders. As a member of the Premier Club, you'll have access to premier exposure at events throughout the year, as well as targeted marketing channels that align with your business goals. But that's not all - this opportunity also offers a range of other benefits that far exceed the cost of membership. To learn more about this exciting opportunity and how it can benefit your organization contact Roula at membership@amchamdubai.org.
PRESIDENT'S CLUB MEMBERS
VICE PRESIDENT'S CLUB MEMBERS
President’s and Vice President’s Club levels are investments above and beyond regular membership dues. The funds from the additional dues help AmCham provide new opportunities and benefits for our members while continuing to support program development. At the same time, these members receive elevated exposure and high level engagement. Each level is designed to host a minimum number of members to keep the club relevant
*Eventsdatesaresubjecttochange
Foundedin1985asthefirstbilateralchamberintheUAE, AmChamDubaicontinuestochampionexcellencein tradeandinvestment. Celebratethismilestonewithusatour 40thAnniversaryGalaDinner.
Together for 40 Years. Driving Business Forward.
Dear Member,
It’s renewal time at AmCham Dubai! As we mark 40 years of bilateral trade leadership between the U.S. and the UAE, we’re excited to continue delivering what matters: thought leadership, active committee engagement, and impactful public–private partnerships.
Renewal notices were sent on October 1, 2025. If you have not received yours, please contact us at: membership@amchamdubai.org so we can resend it right away. Membership with AmCham Dubai means:
40 Years Strong: A proven platform for U.S.–UAE business growth and policy dialogue
Thought Leadership & Committees: Access to sector-focused committees and working groups that shape the conversation.
Public–Private Partnerships: Direct engagement with decision-makers and practical solutions for business.
Regional Reach: We continue to chair AmCham MENA, extending your network and opportunities across the region.
Visibility: Spotlight through the AmCham Update newsletter and throughout our annual programming
We appreciate your continued partnership and look forward to another impactful year together.
AmCham Dubai at N53, One & Only One Za’abeel
AmCham Dubai hosted its quarterly Strategic Advisory DinneronOctober2,2025,atN53,One&OnlyOneZa’abeel. This exclusive gathering brought together key stakeholders andseniorrepresentativesforaprivateeveningofdialogue andexchange.
The dinner was attended by Cara Nazari, Helena Hyde, and Sammy Bousaba from AmCham Dubai; Devrim Tekeli of Johnson Controls; Violeta Velef of Stryker; Michael Bhaskaran of DP World Searates; Anas Metwaly of META (Facebook); Gregg Welch of Parsons; and Mohammed ElDabaaofP&GandBoardMemberofAmChamDubai.
Thesessionprovidedaforumtoshareinsights,strengthencollaboration, and help shape AmCham Dubai’s advocacy and strategic priorities for theyearahead www.amchamdubai.org
What's behind USUAE nuclear partnership?
Agreements Gulf countries have signed with the US in the past few months focus heavily on civilian nuclear energy
What the Government
Means for Americans
The Federal Government Shutdown: Why It
Matters and What We’re Doing
Dubai Chamber News
AmCham Dubai attended the 3rd Roundtable of Business Councils and Business Groups held at Dubai Chambers, providing a valuable platform for dialogue between the private sector and government entities.
Participants engaged in meaningful discussions on upcoming initiatives, international collaboration, and opportunities to strengthen the UAE’s dynamic business ecosystem
The event also welcomed Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank into future cooperation efforts, alongside several newly joined business councils and groups
The roundtable reinforced the importance of collective networking and strategic partnerships in driving sustainable growth and fostering innovation across the region.
U S Chamber News
On the sidelines of UNGA in NYC, U.S. Chamber of Commerce hosted H.E. Ahmed AlSharaa, President of Syria, and H.E. Asaad Al-Shaibani, Syria’s Foreign Minister, for a roundtable discussion with U.S. business leaders to explore how American companies can engage on projects and investment opportunities and establish new partnerships to help Syria rebuild and revitalize its economy.
The President outlined a number of priorities and key sectors and made clear the door is open for US business in Syria The US Chamber looks forward to working with our members and leaders in Syria during this important time to support Syria’s economic renewal and future READ MORE
EVENTS AmCham Dubai
FAREWELL BREAKFAST FOR Ambassado
Martina Strong
July 17, 2025 - AmCham Dubai hosted a special farewell breakfast at SO/ Uptown Dubai to honor Ambassador Martina Stro for her exceptional servic and partnership.
We were joined by members U.S. business leaders, and key stakeholders to celebrate a diplomat whose presence in the UAE has advanced economic ties, elevated commercial diplomacy, and strengthened the U S –U A E relationship
Ambassador Strong has been a remarkable leader, dedicated diplomat, and true partner
private sector helped make the U.S. Mission a more dynamic and responsive partner to American businesses operating in the region.”
On behalf of the AmCham Dubai Board and our broader membership, we thank Ambassador Strong for her support, accessibility, and advocacy, and we wish her continued success in all that lies ahead
It was a full house at SO/Uptown Dubai as AmCham Dubai continued our historic Spotlight On Series, this time focusing on Syria.
Held under Chatham House Rules, the session created a safe space for candid insights, reinforcing AmCham Dubai’s commitment to fostering informed, businessoriented conversations.
A special thank you to the Georgetown University International Business & Policy cohort for joining us and contributing to the dialogue.
SAMMY BOUSABA Chairman, AmCham Dubai
RAMY REDA Director, Strategic Advisory, APCO
AmCham Dubai
Honoring Apollo 15’s Legacy:
Endeavour Scholarship Celebrates Global Impact on STEM
Education
In 1971, Apollo 15 splashed down in the Pacific Ocean after a historicmissionfeaturingthefirstlunarroverontheMoon ��
The Endeavour Scholarship is proudly named after Al Worden, Apollo 15’s Command Module Pilot, whose passion for exploration and international collaboration inspired the creation of The Endeavour Scholarship With support from Kallman Worldwide, Inc., we launched this program to empowerfutureSTEMleadersacrosstheglobe.
Since then, the program welcomed 28 teams and over 100 Endeavour Scholarship recipients from around the world each one carrying Al’s legacy of curiosity, teamwork, and discovery.
Today, as they continue to reach new heights, fostering global friendshipsandinspiringthenextgenerationofexplorers!
AmCham Dubai
Successful
Summer Networking Evening Hosted by AmCham Dubai and BCCD at OUI Bar
The event featured comfortable indoor seating, live music, and ongoing sports & entertainment, creating a vibrant & relaxed atmosphere for professionals to connect.
As part of the chambers' summer networking series, the evening provided an excellent opportunity for attendees to expand their networks across Dubai and the MENA region while exploring one of the city’s popular venues. Many brought along colleagues and friends, contributing to a welcoming and energetic environment
July 24, 2025, members and guests of AmCham Dubai and the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai (BCCD) came together for an engaging summer networking evening at OUI Bar, Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Engagewithadynamicgroupand havesomefunintheprocess.
AmCham Dubai, in collaboration with the Canadian Business Council, Canada Club, and the German-Emirati Business Council, hosted a lively Summer Edition of Networking Nights on Tuesday, July 29, at the Media One Hotel.
Bringing together a diverse mix of professionals from Dubai’s international business community, the evening offered a welcome escape from the summer heat and an ideal setting for meaningful conversations, new connections, and renewed collaborations
THE BIG INTER-COUNCIL
NETWORKING NIGHT
Wednesday September 10, 2025
SO/Uptown DMCC
Following the usual summer slowdown, over 20 of the UAE’s leading Business Councils gathered on Wednesday, September 10, for the largest Inter-Council Networking event of 2025, hosted at SO/ Uptown Dubai.
The event welcomed professionals, decision-makers, and industry leaders from across a wide range of sectors, creating a dynamic platform for high-impact networking and strategic collaboration. Attendees had the chance to expand their networks, explore cross-industry partnerships, and build momentum for a strong business pipeline heading into Q4.
With its high-energy atmosphere and strong turnout, the evening marked a powerful restart to the business season, setting a collaborative tone for the months ahead
AmCham Dubai
AmCham Dubai was proud to be
With many of our members also in attendance, the day ended on a high note when we had the chance to share our HR Committee initiative Revive & Thrive program, created in partnership with Majlis Al Amal by Al Jalila Foundation.
Join industry leaders, risk professionals, and senior executives at the UAE Risk Forum 2025, a premier event designed to address the evolving risk landscape shaping the UAE’s business environment This exclusive forum offers a unique platform to explore critical risk themes from geopolitical tensions and cyber threats to natural catastrophes and people risk through expert presentations and interactive table discussions
The UAE Risk Forum 2025 brings together Marsh experts, and industry peers to explore critical and emerging risks affecting the region Sessions will cover geopolitical and supply chain pressures, cyber and data protection, natural catastrophe preparedness, and people-related risks, all with a practical emphasis on mitigation, measurement, and operational readiness. Expect a mix of short keynote presentations, case studies, and intimate table discussions to translate insight into action
October23,2025 | 8:00am-5:00pm
JumeirahBeachHotelConferenceCentre
NOW
We’reback,bigger,bolder,andreadytobreakmore barriersandyou’llfind:
Expertinsights:from sleep and strength to HRT, workplace, wellbeing and intimacy
Realconversations:honest, frank and culturally relevant
Communityconnection: laughter, new friends and a network that #understandsyou
Whether you're an individual seeking support, a healthcare provider, HR professional, or corporate leader, the Summit empowers you to create positive impact and drive meaningful change.
www.thegccmenopausehub.com
Following a highly successful inaugural edition in 2024, the Ras Al Khaimah Investment & Business Summit (RAKIS) returns in 2025, set to grow exponentially in scale, participation, and impact. Bringing together a dynamic mix of global investors, industry leaders, policymakers, and business pioneers, the summit continues to serve as the premier platform for strategic investment, collaboration, and economic development.
AmCham Dubai DMCC
Read the latest article by S&P Global, an official DMCC Sustainability Hub partner
highlighting what the recent UAE Climate Law means for businesses - from reporting GHG emissions to setting decarbonisation targets and developing effective climate strategies.
READ MORE
With expert guidance and tools from S&P Global and our other partners, the DMCC Sustainability Hub provides tailored support for businesses to meet the evolving requirements of climate regulation and take critical steps in advancing their sustainability journey.
CLICK HERE to Learn more
Interview with Members in the NEWS Sherif Beshara Group CEO of
September 16, 2025 - Interview with Sherif Beshara, Group CEO of American Hospital Dubai, about the opening of the Dubai VIP Pavilion, which is the first of its kind in the world by offering a new and luxurious health experience, and provides all types of medical examinations and tests under one roof, in a way that contributes to enhancing Dubai's position in the medical tourism sector. READ MORE
celebrate one-year partnership with Al Noor!
September 15, 2025 - AVI-SPL team had the privilege of volunteering at Al Noor Rehabilitation & Welfare Association for People of Determination a center dedicated to empowering children and young adults with special needs.
AVI-SPL extends a heartfelt thanks to Apple Castaneda and Ranjini Ramnath for their generous hospitality and for showcasing the impactful work being done at Al Noor. It was a morning filled with learning, inspiration, and many shared smiles. READ MORE
MARSjoined UACA’sflagship Road2.0 initiative
The UAE Alliance for Climate Action (UACA) is proud to announce that Mars has joined UACA’s flagship Road2.0 initiative — helping accelerate the use of commercial electric vehicles in the UAE’s private sector.
By taking the pledge, Mars is helping drive climate action and green mobility across the UAE, in support of the nation’s net zero ambitions
celebrates Over a Century of Service in the Middle East and Turkey
J.P. Morgan recently marked over 100 years of continuous service in the Middle East and Turkey, reflecting on a legacy that began in 1909.
To commemorate this significant milestone, the firm traced the roots of its regional journey highlighting defining moments, long-standing client relationships, and a shared history of growth and innovation across this vibrant and evolving region
READ MORE
We congratulate our member GW Group on signing an Exclusivity Agent Agreement with JCB Tools and Evopower, and being recognized as an Authorized Distributor for Cummins Inc. across the Middle East and Africa.
This milestone reflects Dubai’s position as a dynamic hub where global partnerships are forged, driving trade, innovation, and growth across the region.
We look forward to seeing GW Group continue to expand opportunities and strengthen connections that empower businesses and industries alike
READ MORE
Parsons Wraps Up Successful Participation at 2025 Ru’ya Career Fair
Parsons successfully concluded its dynamic presence at the 2025 Ru’ya Career Fair, held from September 23–25 at the Dubai World Trade Center. As the UAE’s leading career event for Emirati Nationals, the fair attracted thousands of young professionals and top employers from across the country.
Positioned at stand #123, Parsons showcased a wide range of career opportunities across the EMEA region, underscoring its long-standing legacy of innovation and infrastructure development in the Middle East Company representatives actively engaged with ambitious Emirati talent, offering insights into career progression, ongoing projects, and Parsons' continued commitment to Emiratization.
Exciting News from
our
member Al Zorah Development in Ajman! Congratulations on this prestigious award - from AmCham Dubai
Al Zorah has proudly won 7 prestigious awards, including being recognized as a 5-Star Winner in 5 categories at the Arabian Property Awards 2025-2026 In addition, we have been nominated in 2 categories for the International Property Awards, with winners to be announced early next year
This remarkable achievement reflects our team’s creativity dedication, and hard work, as well as our solid commitment to setting new benchmarks in real estate development
launches landmark alliance with Penn Medicine for UAE’s premier medical school Congratulations
launches 1st non-stop flight to Saudi Arabia
September 3, 2025 - Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), the world’s largest express transportation company, has launched its first dedicated flight into Saudi Arabia, making FedEx the first express logistics provider to offer a nonstop route from West to the Kingdom.
Operating six times per week, the service connects the Americas and Europe directly to Riyadh, with onward connections to Guangzhou and Shanghai via a Boeing 777 freighter.
The new route supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by enhancing access to global trade lanes, boosting import efficiency for businesses and SMEs, and facilitating quicker deliveries for time sensitive, heavy, or temperature controlled cargo. READ MORE
Congratulations
Sohar
This collaboration is designed to bring a wider range of protection and long-term savings solutions to individuals, families, and businesses across Oman.
By combining Sohar Bank's extensive regional knowledge with MetLife’s global expertise, we aim to enhance the financial well-being of the community.
Stay tuned for more information on the new products and savings plans that will be available through our branches.
AdvancingCircularEconomyCollaborationinDubai
The Circular Packaging Association (CPA), represented by Chairman Mohamed Ali Eldabaa (also AmCham Dubai’s Board Director) and Secretary General Sara Jackson, had the privilege of meeting with senior officials from the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA) including His Excellency Ahmed Mohamed bin Thani, Director General; Jamila El Mir, Strategy Advisor; and Ahmad Shuhail, Environment Projects Director.
The exchange aimed to strengthen public–private dialogue in support of Dubai’s circular economy agenda. Discussions focused on aligning industry initiatives with DECCA’s environmental priorities, including circular packaging, policy support, and scalable recycling solutions.
Ourspecialindustrygroupsmeetregularlyto identifyissues,formulateactionitemsandreport resultstorespectivegovernmententities
Positionpaperswillbeaddressedtotherelevantgoverningbodiesin ordertofacilitatechangeandreform.
Ifyouareacompanyandwouldliketogetinvolvedpleasecontact usat:events@amchamdubai.org
AmCham Dubai formed the American Brands Forum with the objective of boosting collaboration between American brands & being the concerted voice of American business in the UAE
Topics will include the following: Director, Brand Protector Nike Retail B.V.
Intellectual property rights and enforcement, such as counterfeiting, piracy, and illegitimate trade
Develop and coordinate efforts with law enforcement agencies on lobbying engagements, and advocacy campaigns
Brand Protection Manager Apple EMEIA
Strategically conduct capacity building & training programs
AI INTEGRATION & TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE
Copyright and Artificial Intelligence
Since launching an initiative in early 2023, the Copyright Office has been examining the copyright law and policy issues raised by artificial intelligence (AI), including the scope of copyright in AIgenerated works and the use of copyrighted materials in AI training After hosting public listening sessions and webinars, the Office published a notice of inquiry in the Federal Register in August 2023, which received over 10,000 comments by December 2023.
The Office is issuing a Report in several Parts analyzing the issues, which will be published as they are completed and linked below.
Copyright and Artificial Intelligence analyzes copyright law and policy issues raised by artificial intelligence (AI) This Report is being issued in several Parts Part 1 was published on July 31, 2024, and addresses the topic of digital replicas Part 2 was published on January 29, 2025, and addresses the copyrightability of outputs created using generative AI On May 9, 2025, the Office released a pre-publication version of Part 3 in response to congressional inquiries and expressions of interest from stakeholders A final version of Part 3 will be published in the future, without any substantive changes expected in the analysis or conclusions. Part 1: Digital Replicas
AmCham Dubai Health Sector Committee Held
Insightful Session on Digital Health
August 29, 2025 – AmCham Dubai’s Health Sector Committee convened a forward-looking meeting focused on the future of digital health in the region. The session, held in partnership with MSD GCC and graciously hosted at their offices, brought together members and partners for an engaging and informative discussion.
Featured speakers included Dr. Osama Elhassan, Vice President of the UAE Health Informatics Society and co-founder of ZIMAM, and Svetlana Efimova, General Manager at MWAN Events. Both shared insights into emerging trends and innovations shaping the healthcare sector.
Scientific and Regulatory Affairs (R&D)
The AmCham Dubai Food & Beverage Regulatory Committee serves as a collaborative platform for US companies operating in the UAE and beyond to engage on key regulatory issues affecting the food and beverage sector
Through constructive dialogue, strategic advocacy, and public-private engagement, the committee aims to tackle regulatory challenges, reduce trade barriers, and promote policy solutions that benefit both industry and consumers throughout the region Regulatory Affairs Director
GCC/ Middle East & Africa
The committee’s mission is to foster an environment that meets the goals of the regulators and the standards of the U.A.E., while supporting long-term business continuity and success for U.S. firms and strictly adhering to AmCham’s anti-competition by-laws.
ISSUE - ACTION - RESULT
Future Food Forum 2025 convenes the highest level of industry leadership, government authorities, and global decision makers to define the priorities that will shape the next phase of food and beverage
From trade and policy to consumer trends and innovation, the forum delivers focused dialogue that drives alignment across national goals, sector needs, and global challenges This year’s forum places Future Consumer, Future Government, and Future Food at the center of strategic action
The Forum advances integrated food systems, supports sustainable growth, and aligns innovation with regulatory goals, serving as a platform where long-term strategies are shaped and sector-wide direction is defined.
ISSUE - ACTION - RESULT
AmCham Dubai’s Sustainability & ESG Committee
hosted at the MCN | Middle East Communications Network Office Al Barsha September 2, 2025
The session brought together leaders across industries to share insights, strengthen collaboration, and advance our collective commitment to sustainability and ESG priorities.
Agenda Highlights: MCN Company Introduction
Green Circle Initiative Paper Update
Last Quarter Review & Next Steps
We are proud to see such strong cross-sector engagement driving meaningful conversations and action
Ahmed Mahrous, Johnson Controls Middle East and Africa Controls
Andrej Arsenijevic, Middle East Communication Networks FZ-LLC
Aya Tabbara, APCO Worldwide FZ-LLC
Cara Nazari, AmCham Dubai
Carem Habayeb, FEDCO Global Trading LLC
Dina Epifanova, IFFCO Group
Helena Hyde – AmCham Dubai
Joëlle Jammal
Lana AlZoubi Ayyash, MBA, U S Mission to the UAE
Miki Hirasawa-Ashton
Mohamed Karam, Whirlpool Corporation (InSinkErator)
Pierre Piniau, Milwaukee Tool – Techtronic Industries EMEA
Raya Makawi
Rohan Chopra
Sandra Helayel, GE Vernova
Tanzeed Alam, Parsons Corporation
Wael El Zanaty, General Motors
Welcome to the September edition of APCO's Climate Intelligence Report, your go-to source for navigating the complex world of climate policy and regulation. We spotlight pivotal policy shifts across regions, offering relevant insights for business worldwide.
Join us as we explore California’s first climate risk disclosure guidance for corporations, learn more about China’s expansion of its national carbon market to cover all major emitters, and understand the EU’s efforts to close loopholes in its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism ahead of the 2026 rollout
Regulations Simplified
Your step-by-step path by
Raya Makawi
A quick, clear, and practical guide to understanding complex regulations.
Day One Highlights: Sustainability & Innovation Centre at WETEX 2025
The Sustainability and Innovation Centre kicked off its participation at WETEX 2025 with a dynamic showcase of the latest global innovations and emerging trends in clean and renewable energy.
From cutting-edge technologies to forward-thinking solutions, Day One set the tone for an impactful presence at the region’s leading sustainability event.
Click the image to watch the video.
AmChamDubaisupports WOMEN’S WORKFORCE REENTRY THROUGH
“REVIVE & THRIVE” INITIATIVE
Dubai, July 23, 2025 AmCham Dubai, in partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, proudly supported the Revive & Thrive program an inspiring initiative led by Majlis Al Amal to empower women, including cancer survivors, to return to the workforce after career breaks.
Spearheaded by AmCham Dubai’s HR Committee and supported by several member companies, the program focused on training, mentorship, and paid returnships, connecting jobseekers with companies committed to inclusive hiring and long-term reintegration.
Participating AmCham members included GE Aerospace, Medtronic, Cigna Healthcare, FedEx, Nas Neuron, Chevron, MENA LEGAL, Amgen, Amideast, Mars, Fragomen, and AmCham Dubai each playing a key role in supporting workshops, mentoring sessions, and successful job placements
"From mentoring sessions and workshops to successful job placements, we are proud to help talented women reignite their professional journeys. This initiative reflects the heart of our mission: empowering people through connection, opportunity and action."
Cara Nazari, CEO, AmCham Dubai
AmCham Dubai extends its sincere thanks to Lamya Gabr and the entire Al Jalila Foundation team for their leadership in creating lasting impact through Revive & Thrive.
Women’ s ONE PROGRAM
Revive & Thrive: Real Stories of Renewal and Resilience
An initiative of the AmCham Dubai HR Committee, in partnership with Majlis Al Amal by Al Jalila Foundation
Revive & Thrive was created to empower women returning to the workforce, connecting talented professionals with career opportunities offered by leading American businesses in Dubai and the Northern Emirates
Through mentorship, training, and paid returnship placements, participating companies are helping women re-enter the workplace, refresh their skills, and reignite their careers
The stories that follow celebrate seven remarkable women whose journeys reflect the strength of collaboration between AmCham Dubai, the Majlis Al Amal community, and the American businesses championing their return to work
“The Returnship Program gave me back my confidence It reminded me that I still have so much to offer and even more to learn ”
“Take it a day at a time and embrace the process Don’t be overwhelmed by how far you have to go, just keep moving ”
JANET NJOROGE
After completing her treatment for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Janet Murugi took a courageous step back into the workforce Through a returnship, she rediscovered her purpose as a Network Coordinator and proved that resilience and transferable skills can open new doors
Janet’s story shows how a career break can become a stepping stone toward transformation and new beginnings
Healing with Hope. Living with Purpose. Inspiring with Courage.
“After chemotherapy and radiation, I felt like my brain was wiped out, but this internship brought me back to life It gave me purpose again.”
HANAN ALRAZEM
“There is beauty in resilience, and there’s power in never giving up Every setback is just a stepping stone to something greater ”
“This returnship reminded me that I am not starting from scratch; I’m starting from experience And I’m stronger than ever ”
LEKHA JAISANKAR
In 2022, Lekha Jaisankar’s life changed when she was diagnosed with stage 3 kidney cancer At the height of her career, she faced uncertainty, loss of confidence, and the fear that she may never return to the workforce
Lekha rediscovered her spark transitioning from shadowing colleagues to leading projects with confidence
Today, she stands as a powerful example of what it means to Revive & Thrive: turning a pause into purpose and resilience into renewal
Defining Paths. Breaking Barriers. Building Futures.
“The fear of going back to work is real. But this experience reminded me that I’m capable, I’m strong, and I’m not alone ”
“It wasn’t just about a job, it was about regaining my identity It gave me hope It gave me a place to grow again ”
MARIA ZAATAR
“Resilience isn’t just surviving something hard it’s finding the courage to rebuild afterward.”
MANISHA SAHNI
After stepping away from her career during treatment for breast and lung cancer, Manisha Singh found strength and purpose again through Majlis Al Amal’s Returnship Program
The returnship was more than a professional stepping stone, it gave me back confidence and reminded me I still have so much to offer
Her journey came full circle when she joined Cigna Healthcare on a returnship, where her skills, resilience, and experience were truly valued
Today, Manisha stands as a powerful example of what it means to Revive & Thrive: turning adversity into hope, and a career break into a new beginning
Endured. Empowered. Evolving.
“A Journey of Strength, Hope, and Renewal”
In October 2022, Mary Leena was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer a lifechanging challenge she faced with courage, optimism, and determination
MARY LEENA
Thank you
Your journey is nothing short of inspiring.
You’ve faced one of life’s greatest challenges with courage, and now, through Revive & Thrive, you’ve stepped forward with resilience, purpose, and renewed strength Through your story, you are lighting the way for so many others showing that survival is just the beginning, and thriving is the true triumph
And we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the following organizations for being part of this journey giving survivors the opportunity to work again, and for championing their return with compassion and purpose.
Dubai, September 12, 2025 — AmCham Dubai, in collaboration with the U.S. Consulate General and its HR Committee, successfully held an Internships & Emiratization Workshop on Friday, September 12, at the U.S. Consulate in Dubai.
The event united U.S. industry leaders and representatives from top UAE universities to explore practical pathways for internships, training, and employment opportunities supporting the UAE’s national Emiratization goals
Opening remarks were delivered by Consul General Robert Raines, AmCham Dubai Chair Sammy Bousaba, and HR Committee CoChairs Anastasiia Andriianova and Nina Chami
The workshop featured direct engagement between corporate stakeholders and university career services leaders, fostering meaningful dialogue around building a stronger pipeline of Emirati and regional student talent. Networking followed the session, allowing for the exchange of ideas and future collaboration opportunities.
On September 17, 2025, at Almas Tower, JLT DMCC, AmCham Dubai’s HR Committee, in collaboration with Cigna Healthcare Middle East & Africa, hosted a thought-provoking session titled “Attracting & Retaining Top Talent: What It Takes to Stay Competitive in 2025 & Beyond.”
HR leaders, industry experts, and business professionals convened at the event to explore emerging trends in workforce strategy, evolving employee expectations, and the future of talent retention.
A special highlight was Cigna’s interactive FLEXR machine, which showcases Move well Feel well Age well FLEXR uses a camera on any smart device to analyze balance, posture, mobility, and stability, revealing a participant’s Movement Age compared to their biological age. Great fun!
Thank you to the Australian Business Council Dubai for supporting this event.
Festive Offers from our
A Warm Welcome to our New Members
HOSPITALITY
When you join the AmCham Dubai you are joining a diverse and collaborative membership organization working together to make Dubai & the Northern Emirates the best place for business to thrive.
Unlock a world of discounts and offers when you join the AmCham Dubai Member Rewards program, and if you are already a member start using your rewards today!
MEMBER REWARDS PARTNERS