Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron praised Dubai for its remarkable transformation and emphasised on the importance of leadership in achieving such progress at the Arabian Business Leadership Summit 2023.
The summit was held at Dubai’s Armani Hotel, where Cameron highlighted the city’s reputation as a hub of opportunity and a testament to “hard work, dedication, vision, and a leap of faith.”
“Dubai is not a place where you hide your achievements,” Cameron said, focusing on the city’s global recognition for its openness and ease of doing business.
David Cameron in Dubai
The former prime minister admired the UAE’s founding principles, which have attracted individuals from all over the world seeking new prospects.
During his speech, Cameron shared his many insights on effective decision-making processes, particularly in the context of meetings.
He expressed the view that larger meetings tend to be less productive, and stressed on the importance of engaging a core team of approximately six individuals who can engage in constructive debates and discussions.
By allowing thorough examination of different arguments, issues, policies, or decisions, smaller meetings foster an environment for productive disagreements to take place, Cameron explained.
“Different arguments, issues, policies, or decisions can be thoroughly examined. Disagreements can take place. Too many people, and meetings tend to become more performative and lose their purpose.”
Shifting focus to the realm of politics and public service, Cameron also voiced his belief in the worthiness and nobility of engaging in such roles.
He also spoke about the the impartial and professional civil service in countries like Britain, stating that it works for the greater good.
While acknowledging the “rough and tumble” nature of politics, Cameron also encouraged those interested to immerse themselves in public service, quoting Gandhi’s sentiment.
The former UK premier joined some of the most influential business leaders in the region at the Arabian Business Leadership Summit on Wednesday.
Among those in attendance were UAE Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs Huda AlHashmi, Diriyah Company chief executive officer Jerry Inzerillo, former Etihad boss and Knighthood Global chief executive officer James Hogan, Etoile Group president Ingie Chalhoub, GMG deputy chairman and chief executive officer Mohammad A Baker, ROSHN group chief executive officer David Grover, Amazon MENA vice president Ronaldo Mouchawar – to name a few.
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