Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the Dubai Chambers umbrella, recently held an interactive open dialogue session in collaboration with Mashreq, bringing together 82 representatives from the private sector. The discussion focused on the most pressing banking needs of the business community, while highlighting the financing solutions and advanced services provided by the bank to help companies strengthen resilience amid changing economic conditions.
The initiative is part of a series of interactive dialogues organised by Dubai Chamber of Commerce in partnership with leading financial institutions. It aims to better align banking products and services with business requirements, while enabling companies to sustain growth and adapt to evolving market dynamics.
The session was attended by Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers; Joel Van Dusen, Group Head of Corporate and Investment Banking at Mashreq; Fernando Morillo, Group Head of Retail Banking Group; Roy Sebastian, Group Chief Credit Officer; along with senior Mashreq business leaders. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on financing challenges and shifting banking needs across sectors, with a focus on practical solutions to improve operational efficiency and financial resilience. The dialogue highlighted the banking sector’s essential role in supporting businesses in a rapidly evolving global environment.
Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah said: “Protecting the interests of the business community and enhancing private sector competitiveness remain key priorities for us. We are committed to strengthening Dubai’s business ecosystem to support companies operating in the emirate and ensure their growth and continuity amid changing conditions, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for trade and investment.”
Joel Van Dusen added: “At Mashreq, our strategy goes beyond traditional banking. We aim to be a trusted strategic partner to our clients, supporting them in achieving sustainable and resilient growth. By combining innovative banking solutions with tailored financing capabilities, we help businesses address evolving needs, improve efficiency, and strengthen long-term competitiveness. This collaboration with Dubai Chamber of Commerce reflects our shared commitment to supporting the UAE economy and helping businesses navigate today’s dynamic environment.”
During the session, Mashreq’s business banking team presented its integrated financial solutions for companies, focusing on tools designed to help businesses manage global challenges. Discussions also covered sector-specific financing priorities, emphasising the need for flexible funding and innovative banking options to support continuity, adaptability, and private sector resilience.
Fernando Morillo said: “We are committed to providing businesses with simple, efficient financial tools that support their growth. Through ongoing engagement with our business banking clients via forums and interactive sessions, we exchange insights and respond more effectively to real business needs. Our collaboration with Dubai Chamber of Commerce strengthens ecosystem-wide cooperation and helps create an environment where businesses can adapt with confidence, reinforcing our focus on tailored, forward-looking banking solutions.”
The session is part of a broader series of engagements organised by Dubai Chambers with private sector stakeholders to evaluate current market conditions, anticipate future trends, and enhance sector readiness in responding to global developments. Through these initiatives, Dubai Chambers continues to work closely with the business community to better understand evolving needs, improve support mechanisms, and strengthen overall competitiveness and performance.
