Page 102 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT MAY 2024

5/17/24, 4:59 PM How should businesses prepare for an era of permacrisis?
Q: What are the top risks that businesses in the region should be aware of when it
comes to climate change?

First, I want to congratulate the UAE and its leadership for organising such a successful

COP28. As a local company incorporated in Dubai for many years, we are proud to

operate in an environment where the government takes ESG matters very seriously.

Regarding climate change, the most critical point is its local impact worldwide, including

the Middle East. Businesses need to be ready to operate and ensure business continuity in
this rapidly changing environment.

The first step is acknowledging that climate change impacts business continuity.

Being ready involves having processes and protocols in place, working with providers to
ensure resilience, and protecting your employees and business operations. This

preparation is crucial as it impacts productivity, finances, and overall stability.

Q: Regional tensions are another risk factor. With the recent Red Sea crisis, how
prepared was International SOS for such an event?

International SOS has a long history of handling crises in partnership with our clients.
We’ve been addressing geopolitical instability, including the recent Red Sea crisis, which

has shown the importance of being prepared for disruptions in key logistics pathways. Our

experience with crises like the one in Sudan underscores our commitment to crisis

management, and we continue to offer workshops to help clients identify and plan for
potential threats.

Q: Employee burnout is a growing concern. Why did International SOS highlight this

as a risk factor, and what can businesses do about it?

Employee well-being is a significant concern, with burnout costing billions in the region. We

commend the UAE’s National Program for Happiness and Well-being as a model for other
countries. Businesses need to enhance employee well-being to avoid burnout and ensure

business continuity. This can involve implementing supportive measures and creating a

positive work environment.

Q: How should businesses prepare for future extreme weather events like the April
16 rains in the UAE?

https://gulfbusiness.com/how-should-businesses-prepare-for-an-era-of-permacrisis/ 3/4