Testimonials

At an inquisitive first visit to Dubai, to attend Arab Health and to better understand the local healthcare sector, we saw clear opportunities to develop our services into Dubai. We were impressed by the BCCD team’s enthusiasm and expertise as well as the quality of the various panels. The opportunities for networking were excellent and in speaking with the CEO Katy Holmes, we saw different perspectives of the Dubai market which we may have otherwise overlooked.

This all-round level of support encouraged our decision to join the BCCD at the highest level of membership, as we had experienced directly BCCD’s ability to both educate and attract like-minded parties.

BCCD has helped us understand the historic ties and cultural differences between the two countries, and it has also enabled us to overcome barriers that had previously stalled our progress. General business and government departmental emails often resulted in lengthy waits and difficulty in meeting key decision makers. As business in the region relies on relationships and trust, BCCD has helped us connect directly with the relevant parties, enabling us to meet with a wide range of decision makers at a greater pace, vastly improving our market research and our insight into potential opportunities.

We are looking forward to being active members of BCCD and to joining in many other events.

As one of Dubai’s most established luxury business hotels, Fairmont Dubai remains committed to strengthening its leadership among key corporate and international markets. One of our ongoing challenges has been identifying new business channels and strategic partnerships that align with our brand values and long-term growth objectives in an increasingly competitive landscape. Through the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai, we gained direct access to a powerful network of UK and multinational companies operating across the region. The Chamber’s curated events and networking platforms have enabled our commercial teams to forge meaningful relationships, explore cross-sector collaborations, and gain valuable insights into emerging market opportunities. Earlier this year, we extended exclusive accommodation offers for delegates attending the Chamber’s UK event, which generated positive engagement and direct bookings — a testament to the tangible value of this partnership. This collaboration continues to strengthen our positioning and visibility among high-value business travelers, reinforcing Fairmont Dubai as a destination where luxury, connection, and commerce converge seamlessly, and where collaboration remains the cornerstone of sustainable success.

The BCCD event helped us find the perfect business partner! My husband and I moved to Dubai in May 2025 with the aim of opening a Bavarian Beerhouse -German Restaurant & Bar. We had run this type of restaurant in the UK (in London and Bristol) from 2005 to 2020. Now it was time to bring the brand to the Gulf region. The first thing we did was join the BCCD, knowing that this type of business groups could provide us with the best contacts. From May to July, while searching for the right location, I attended many meetings and spoke to lots of people at BCCD and other councils and events. At the BCCD AGM, I found what I was looking for! I spoke to an events manager from the Tower Rotana Hotel, exchanged business cards with her, and sent her a follow-up email. She forwarded my email with our pitch deck to the hotel's general manager. He arranged a meeting. The rest is history... On 18 September, we opened Bavarian Beerhouse on the third floor of the Towers Rotana Hotel (formerly the Teatro restaurant). Without t

When we set out to strengthen WellTax’s presence in the UAE, joining the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai was a strategic decision - one that has significantly accelerated our growth and expanded our network.

We have had the privilege of taking part in several flagship BCCD initiatives, including the “BCCD Business Briefing in London: Doing Business in Dubai” on 19 March 2025, which brought together UK-based entrepreneurs exploring opportunities in the UAE. We also participated in the “Business Briefing in the UK: Doing Business in the UAE” held at the University of Manchester on 24 June 2025, where WellTax was a lead sponsor and I joined the panel of experts to share cross-border tax and structuring insights.

These events offered clear, practical overviews on the next steps to successfully establish a presence in the UAE - guidance that has been of fundamental importance for our clients and for WellTax itself. Combined with the Chamber’s introductions and ongoing support, they have helped us overcome initial challenges, deepen our understanding of the UAE market, and secure strategic partnerships.

BCCD continues to be an essential partner in our international expansion, providing visibility, credibility and the practical guidance needed to thrive in the region.

Media One Hotel’s strategy is to be a community hub for both the business and residential sectors of Dubai, and our long-standing partnership with BCCD has been key to supporting this vision. As proud members for over a decade, we’ve had the opportunity to engage with a diverse network of more than 1,000 members, helping us strengthen our connections and share insights with like-minded individuals.

BCCD has provided a valuable platform for fostering meaningful collaborations. We actively participate in and host events ranging from new member breakfast networking, early evening social sessions to focus group discussions.

In 2022, we collaborated with BCCD to host a “Long Lunch” with the Iranian Business Council during the Qatar World Cup, which brought communities together in a spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange as England and Iran faced off in the group stages.

Our relationship with BCCD extends beyond networking, as it supports businesses and individuals in their growth journey, encourages partnerships, and contributes to Dubai’s thriving business landscape through active engagement and shared opportunities.

Having moved to Dubai from the UK, I was eager to explore opportunities for both personal and professional growth. I was also driven by a desire to become part of a supportive community and to learn from the wealth of knowledge and experience that the Chambers offers. Among the many services, events and initiatives provided by the BCCD, I have found several to be particularly valuable. The networking events have been instrumental in expanding my professional circle and allowing me to meet like-minded individuals. Additionally, the various workshops and seminars have provided me with invaluable insights into the UAE market, helping me to navigate the local landscape with greater confidence. I have forged new connections, established fruitful friendships and gained a deeper understanding of the market dynamics in the UAE. The increased visibility and credibility that comes with being part of the Chamber have also been significant. Moreover, the camaraderie and support from fellow members have been incredibly encouraging, making my transition to Dubai smoother and more enjoyable.

As Founding Regional Director for the Middle East at The CFO Centre, I have found the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai to be an exceptionally valuable business platform. The BCCD team consistently delivers high-quality events, relevant market insights and meaningful introductions that help members build genuine relationships and explore new opportunities.

The chamber has played an important role in helping us strengthen our presence and relationships in the UAE business community. Katy and the entire BCCD team are doing a fantastic job, and I am pleased to be part of such an active and well-managed network.