City bids to attract Dubai investment

THE leader of Dundee City Council hopes to attract investment after the city hosted a government delegation from Dubai.

Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce hosted the delegation over three days to showcase business opportunities in the region.

It teamed up with Dubai Investment Development Agency (Dubai FDI), The Corporate Group and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce to organise the Dubai Advantage Conference.

Council leader John Alexander said: “Dundee’s economic performance has continued on an upward trajectory, from recent record increases in employment to being named as a top 20 UK destination for inward investment. The only way that this trend will continue is if the city, collectively, takes Dundee nationally and internationally to attract investment and development.

“Dubai is a global hub and it will no doubt surprise many to hear of the links with Dundee.

“Our city can benefit from such connections and we will continue to expand our efforts to make Dundee an attractive destination for inward investment and job creation.”

More than 20 representatives from the Dubai government presented business opportunities and offered assistance to set up business and trade within their region to local firms.

At Al Maktoum College, they met Mr Alexander, leaders of Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc and culture and university representatives showcasing Dundee’s business ambitions.

Dubai FDI investment promotion department director Ibrahim Ahli said: “The relationship between Scotland and Dubai is based on a foundation of strong diplomatic, economic and business ties. Dubai has traditionally given a warm welcome to the participation of Scottish companies and offered in return an immense potential for growth.”

Exploring new business opportunities was Dr Mhairi Towler, founder of scientific animation studio Vivomotion.

The chief executive said the Dubai delegation showed incredible support for entrepreneurs and innovation.

“I enjoyed hearing about a city which I have not yet had the chance to visit, but would now love to go,” said Ms Towler. “The values being imbued were so aspirational, for example the aim to make