The number of American companies operating in Dubai Airport Freezone is on continuous increase to explore business opportunities in the region, said Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, director general of Dubai Airport Freezone. Speaking during a meeting with the American Consul General Justin Siberell at his office in the Dubai Airport Freezone, Dr. Zarooni pointed out that the American companies operating in the Freezone are of valuable quality and major contribution in the global and local economy. Siberell was briefed on the facilities and incentives available for foreign investors setting up regional or branch offices at the Freezone. The Dubai Airport Freezone is home to 122 American companies. Forty four of these companies are operating in distribution, 43 in assembly, 16 in consulting, nine in trade, six in service and three in the industry sector. Some of the top US companies are Boeing, Heinz, National Air Cargo and Johnson & Johnson. “Most people tend to believe that since the UAE is a major oil exporter, the trade relationship between the UAE and the US is based on oil. However the relationship actually is characterized by a set of high value trade and investment activities that often have little to do with oil,” said Dr. Zarooni. “Both countries have developed stronger economic ties in recent years, in which both countries experienced tremendous growth in trade and investments. The improved economic partnership reflects the UAE's role as a regional leader with regards to economic reform and openness to international trade.” Siberell said,” UAE is one of the largest trade partner of the US and we look forward to further boost this kind of relations for the benefits of both countries.” “Dubai Airport Freezone provides the right infrastructure, facilities and business environment that suit many of the American companies to consider it as a platform for launching their businesses in the region.” According to a report by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade, “US exports have increased from AED13 billion ($3.6 billion) in 2002 to over AED53 billion ($14.5 billion) in 2008. The UAE bought more US goods than any other country in the Arab world. UAE is the single largest import market for US goods in the Middle East for 2008.
