Pakistan becomes second-largest national group joining Dubai Chamber of Commerce this year

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan emerged as the second-largest national group whose companies joined the Dubai Chamber of Commerce during the first half of the ongoing year, following India, with over 3,900 firms taking membership, said a statement released on Wednesday.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strengthened its reputation as a global business hub over the years, as evidenced by the significant number of foreign investors joining the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.
The influx of Pakistani companies highlights the strategic advantages Dubai offers, such as its favorable business environment, connectivity and access to regional and international markets.
For Pakistani companies, obtaining membership with the Dubai Chamber not only facilitates easier entry into the Gulf market but also provides opportunities for networking, investment and growth in a highly competitive global arena.
“A recent analysis by Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has revealed that Indian investors topped the list of new non-Emirati companies joining the chamber during the first half of this year, with 7,860 new companies,” the Dubai Chamber of Commerce said.
“Pakistan ranked second on the list with 3,968 new companies joining in H1 2024, while Egypt followed with 2,355 new companies registering as members of the chamber,” it added.
While the statement did not mention the sectoral distribution of Pakistani companies, it said the trade and repairing services sector ranked first overall, accounting for 41.5% of the total.
The real estate, renting and business services sector came in second place, representing 33.6% of all new firms securing their membership.
This was followed by the construction sector in third place at 9.4%, and the transport, storage and communications sector, which ranked fourth with 8.4%.
The social and personal services sector came in fifth place at 6.6%.
Pakistan views the UAE, particularly Dubai, as a gateway not just to the Gulf market but the wider Middle East and even North Africa.
The strategic location of the Arab state, combined with its robust infrastructure, favorable business environment and strong trade links, makes it an attractive entry point for Pakistani companies aiming to expand their reach in the region.