Dubai Chambers explored ways to strengthen bilateral partnerships and expand trade and investment flows during a meeting with a high-level delegation from the US state of Illinois, led by Senator Seth Lewis, a member of the Illinois Senate.
The meeting was attended by Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, who highlighted opportunities to deepen cooperation across trade, investment and private sector engagement, including participation in major business events held in Dubai and the United States.
Lootah said: “This visit marks an important step in further strengthening the economic ties between Dubai and the State of Illinois. It also reflects our commitment to providing an integrated support ecosystem that enables US companies to capitalize on opportunities for growth and regional expansion from Dubai.”


Commitment to strengthening economic ties
Discussions focused on enhancing collaboration mechanisms and facilitating the smooth flow of business and investment between Dubai and Illinois.
Dubai Chambers reaffirmed its commitment to supporting US companies seeking to enter the Dubai market or expand their operations in the emirate.
The meeting also showcased private sector partnership opportunities and the investment frameworks available to international businesses.
Both sides noted strong alignment on global trade, investment and sustainability priorities, identifying shared opportunities in logistics, advanced manufacturing, technology and sustainable energy.
Dubai positioned as gateway to regional markets
Participants highlighted Dubai’s role as a strategic gateway for Illinois exports to markets across Africa and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
Opportunities for logistics partnerships with Dubai-based companies were discussed as a means to strengthen supply chains and expand logistics services in Illinois.
Focus on innovation and green investment
The talks also addressed advancing investment cooperation in priority innovation areas, including quantum computing, other advanced technologies, renewable energy and green initiatives.
Trade relations between Dubai and the United States remain robust, with bilateral non-oil trade reaching AED116.4 billion in 2024, marking annual growth of 10 percent.
