A Meaningful Chapter Closes: Rafael Villalona Reflects on His Tenure as Chairman of the Mexican Business Council in UAE
As Rafael Villalona‘s tenure in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) draws to a close, so does a transformative chapter in his professional journey—serving as Chairman of the Mexican Business Council in UAE. Villalona’s experience has not just been one of personal growth, but of constructing a powerful bridge for the Mexican business community far from home.
Building a Vision from Scratch
“When we started this journey just over a year ago, we weren’t handed a roadmap. There was no structure, no playbook, just a shared conviction that the Mexican business community in the UAE deserved a platform that could unite, represent, and empower it,” Villalona stated.
Charged with this vision, the Mexican Business Council was built from the ground up. Through dedication and united efforts, the council quickly became one of the most influential Latin American business platforms in the region.
Achievements and Impact
- The council organized more than 30 events, each averaging over 50 attendees.
- It forged meaningful institutional ties with organizations such as Dubai Chambers, Abu Dhabi Chambers, Invest in Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah Government, as well as with counterparts in Mexico City, San Luis Potosí, and Querétaro.
- The council actively fostered LATAM solidarity by creating support channels with the embassies of the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Uruguay, and collaborating with the Dubai Costa Rica Business Council.
- Strategic alliances were established with TECNOLÓGICO DE MONTERREY, New York University Abu Dhabi, Jafza, and International Free Zone Authority (IFZA).
Gratitude at the Heart
Villalona emphasized the role of people behind each milestone. He extended his deep appreciation to Ambassador Luis Alfonso de Alba for supporting and legitimizing the vision. Special thanks were given to Sofía Barba and Oscar R. Gallegos for their tireless, behind-the-scenes work, as well as to the Board of Directors—Ingrid Orozco, Lena Janina, Berenice H., Salvador Perez-Galindo, Rodrigo Antillon Moreira, Fadi Saboune, and Patricia Yun—for their wisdom and dedication.
“To the work groups and broader Mexican business community in the UAE: thank you for showing up, for believing, for trusting. You’ve proven that no matter how far from home we are, la fuerza mexicana can shine and lead with purpose,” said Rafael Villalona.
Passing the Torch
As he prepares to move on, Villalona clarifies, “This isn’t goodbye, it’s a handoff. I leave knowing the Council will be in good hands and ready for its next phase of growth and impact.”
With the foundations firmly laid, the Mexican Business Council in UAE is set to continue serving, representing, and empowering the Mexican—and broader Latin American—business community in the Gulf region.
“Mil gracias! It’s been an honor,” Villalona concluded.
Team V.4-LKDN-UAE
