Global academics debate banking, finance trends in Mena region

Majed Al Shamsi, first vice-chairman, Dubai Chamber, said Dubai is an ideal setting to host such events, given its aim to become a research and knowledge hub for the wider Mena region.

The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted the World Finance & Banking Symposium in collaboration with the University of Dubai, marking the first time that the event was held in the emirate.

The symposium, taking place from December 14 to 15, gathered 200 academics and industry professionals from around the world to present, debate and discuss 174 research papers covering a range of economic and financial issues.

Dubai Chamber presented new research comparing the performance of Islamic and conventional banks in the GCC over the last eight years. The University of Dubai presented 10 research papers on various topics, including the performance of SMEs and stock markets in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as the impact of government regulation on mergers and acquisitions in the region.

Majed Al Shamsi, first vice-chairman, Dubai Chamber, explained why Dubai is an ideal setting to host such events, given its aim to become a research and knowledge hub for the wider Mena region.

"By hosting this symposium, Dubai continues to demonstrate its ability to attract renowned events that bring together experts from around the world who are at the forefront of their industries. We look forward to hosting more events in the future that advance our research and support the development of our academic institutions," Al Shamsi said.

Dr Eesa Bastaki, president of the University of Dubai, highlighted the emirate's ambitious plans to diversify its economy, which place a major focus on enhancing research and development and fostering a culture of innovation.

"Developing the skills of our workforce through educational activities will help us create an environment that supports knowledge sharing and the development of patents and intellectual property. We believe that the ICT sector, in particular, stands to become a major driving force towards economic diversification, which will be the basis for building a knowledge-based economy," Dr Bastaki added.

- business@khaleejtimes.com