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contributing to job creation, infrastructure development and cultural exchange,
including its effects on small businesses and regional investment. Tourism
serves as a double engine for the Gulf region, encouraging entrepreneurship and
innovation while fostering cultural understanding, though growth must be
balanced for environmental sustainability. Speakers included Saeed Ali Obaid Al
Fazari, Executive Director of the Strategic Affairs Sector at the Department of
Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi; and Dr. Saeeda Jaafar, Senior Vice President
and Group Country Manager of the Visa Group in the GCC; and Haitham Mattar,
President of IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East and Africa.

Joe Chidiac, CEO and publisher of Economy Middle East, organised the summit.
He said, "Bringing together visionary leaders, distinguished ministers and
industry experts, the Economy Middle East Summit 2024 served as a vibrant
platform for innovative thinking, revolutionary ideas and collaboration, all aimed
at driving accelerated growth across the Middle East.”

The summit was held in partnership with ADGM, one of the world’s leading
international financial centres. It was supported by the Department of Economic
Development in Abu Dhabi and Visa, the leading global company in payment
services. Strategic partnerships included Alef Education and Standard Chartered.

https://www.msn.com/en-ae/news/other/economy-middle-east-summit-2024-highlights-
economic-growth-prospects-in-mena-region/ar-AA1nYVFh?ocid=BingNewsSerp