Initiative aims to foster connections, business growth, and cultural exchange between Brazil and the UAE.
Dubai, UAE – The Brazilian Business Council in the United Arab Emirates was officially launched on Friday (23) in Dubai, marking a significant step in deepening Brazil-UAE business relations. Backed by the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC), the council is designed to promote experience-sharing among Brazilian companies operating in the region, enhance dialogue with Emirati institutions, and encourage further investment in the Gulf.
The launch event gathered leading companies already active in the UAE market, including JBS, Alpargatas, Tropicool, Açaí Spot, and BRF Foods. Also present were key partners such as Invest SP (São Paulo’s investment promotion agency), the ABCC, and the Brazilian Embassy in the UAE, represented by Ambassador Sidney Romeiro.
Leadership and Vision
The Council will be chaired by Brazilian entrepreneur Omar Hamaoui, a Lebanese descendant who has lived in Dubai since the early 2000s. Founder of the construction company Engeprot—known for projects like the Mohammed bin Rashid Library and Dubai Design District—Hamaoui has recently expanded into commodities trading.
In his remarks, Hamaoui highlighted the significance of the initiative:
“The creation of this council is a milestone in strengthening economic and cultural ties between Brazil and the UAE—a relationship that has flourished since 1974,” he said. “Throughout my years here, I’ve supported the arrival of numerous Brazilian companies and professionals. This council now formalizes that effort.”
A Platform for Opportunity
Rafael Solimeo, Head of the ABCC’s Dubai office and now Secretary-General of the Council, emphasized its three main objectives:
- Amplifying the voice of the Brazilian business community
- Unlocking tangible business opportunities
- Encouraging the exchange of people, ideas, and innovation
“Our mission is clear: to represent, connect, and activate the Brazilian business presence in the Emirates,” Solimeo stated. “To all our founding members, thank you. Let’s move forward with purpose, unity, and ambition.”
Solimeo later told ANBA that the Council’s activities will focus on helping Brazilian companies already in the Emirates thrive through regular engagement and shared knowledge.
Structure and Support
The Council launches with 20 founding members, eight appointed advisors, and will hold monthly meetings hosted at the facilities provided by Dubai Chambers, who were also acknowledged for their foundational support.
Solimeo underlined the importance of reshaping global perceptions:
“Brazil is often recognized for its natural beauty and cultural exports—but it’s also home to industrial giants and innovative enterprises,” he noted, citing JBS, BRF, Embraer, and Alpargatas, along with smaller brands like Açaí Spot that carry Brazil’s essence abroad.
With strategic backing and a strong leadership team in place, the Brazilian Business Council is set to become a key player in enhancing bilateral business engagement in the UAE.
