World Retail Congress returning to Dubai

The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently said that the World's Retail Congress will be returning to Dubai next year.

The announcement came following a positive response to last month's World Retail Congress, which was held for the first time in Dubai.

"The decision to host the annual World Retail Congress twice in a row in Dubai reflects the emirate’s leading status as a major global retail hub and a key driver for innovation in retail industry," Dubai Chamber President and CEO Hamad Buamim said. "Dubai offers a secure and business friendly atmosphere supported by state of the art infrastructure for both start-ups and established business houses to flourish."

This year's event brought together more than 1,300 retail industry experts and stakeholders from over 50 countries to discuss issues and challenges facing the industry.

Among the World Retail Congress 2016 speakers were Zoomaal CEO Abdallah Absi, Chalhoub Group CEO Patrick Chalhoub, American Apparel Chairman Paul Charron, Tesco Bank Chief Executive Benny Higgins, Tommy Hilfiger Group Principle Designer Tommy Hilfiger, Coca-Cola MENA Marketing Vice President Jonathan Lawlor, Jo Loves Founder Jo Malone, Abercrombie & Fitch Executive Chairman Arthur Martinez, Former Saks CEO Steve Sadove and Virgin Megastores MENA President Nisreen Shocair.