February 10 2009:
Dubai
Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Business Leaders (MBRE) launched its Strategic Plan (2009-2015) under the theme "Yes to Growth". The plan sets out the key strategies to develop entrepreneurship and SMEs to support the Dubai 2015 Economic Plan.

All staff attended the session. An inspirational video clip kicked off the session. The message of the video was simple: the need to work as a team to weather any crisis and reposition for the recovery.  

In his keynote speech, Mr Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEO of Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment, expressed the Establishment’s eternal gratitude for the support given by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the MBRE's Board of Directors, and their keenness to encourage national business leaders to set up their own enterprises and contribute to the development of their country.

The CEO of MBRE also emphasized the pivotal role of the small and medium enterprises in the economic growth of Dubai saying:

"SMEs play a critical role in all economies.  During difficult times, SMEs tend to be more resilient as they are smaller and more nimble to changes in the business environment, compared to larger enterprises. This is the time for the SMEs to regroup and invest in the medium term and long term for growth by investing in innovation and excellence. This will prepare them for a better position in the upturn.   

"Mr. Al Janahi elaborated that the MBRE's Strategy (2009 – 2015) includes a number of important initiatives that aim to make Dubai the magnet for Intellectual Property and Innovative SMEs. The value-add captured from these new SME businesses will contribute to the future economic competitiveness of Dubai. These initiatives include defining SMEs in Dubai and enabling entrepreneurs and SMEs to leverage on IP as a means for strategic growth.”  

"The MBRE strategic plan will only succeed if we have the active support of our key stakeholders. Hence, the Establishment will be working with and through our esteemed stakeholders to execute the plan.  Of importance is the Establishment’s role to be an active advocate of the SME sector to improve the business environment for all businesses to start and grow. Our policies must be pro-small business and friendly. We must also work with our stakeholders to develop and execute a plan to enhance Dubai’s intellectual property and innovation capabilities of the SME sector.

Mr. Al Janahi concluded his speech by lauding the great and constant efforts of the MBRE's staff, and encouraged them to give their continued support and commitment to the MBRE cause.