quarter 3 newsletter 2012
DESCRIPTION
Quarter 3 Newsletter 2012TRANSCRIPT
The American Business Council
“IDEAS”Identify Define Execute Analyze Strengthen
a Business Forumhosted by the American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates
Monday, November 19, 2012Registration - 12:30 pm
Buffet Lunch 12:30 - 13:30 pm
Program 13:30 – 17:30 pmReception - 17:30 pm
The Meydan HotelTurf Lounge
Register NOW!www.abcdubai.com
Book byOct 20& save
AED 100/-
Q3 - 2012
ABC Mem
ber S
pecia
l!
Opening address by U.S. Ambassador to the U.A.E., The Honorable Michael Corbin“ Taking the Pulse of the U.S. - U.A.E. Bilateral Trade Relationship”
Panel of Experts Discussion “Challenges Overcome”
Sector Specific Roundtables “IDEAS – Looking Ahead”
On March 1, 2012 in Abu Dhabi, His Excellency Khalid al-Ghaith, Assistant Minister Economic Affairs, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed His Excellency Jose Fernandez, Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs at the U.S. State Department, for the first Economic Policy Dialogue (EPD) between the two countries.
The EPD will serve as an umbrella for a number of new and ongoing initiatives that are aimed at deepening economic and commercial ties between the U.A.E. and the U.S. Topics on the agenda included ways to streamline the U.S. visa process for U.A.E. business travelers, the elimination of non-tariff trade barriers and the facilitation of direct investments in the economies of both countries.
In the spirit of the EPD, the American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates will soon be holding our inaugural Business Forum, IDEAS.
FORUM FEATURESPanel of Experts “Challenges Overcome” This C-level panel will discuss how challenges to U.S.-U.A.E. trade links have been overcome over the years to generate today’s strong and growing bilateral trade relationship.
Break-out sessions “IDEAS – Looking Ahead”Sector-specific roundtables are the first step on the “IDEAS” path and will be focused on identifying common challenges as well as identifying potential synergies when looking ahead; they will be guided by facilitators who are industry leaders in ten sectors.
Bring your regional business experience and insight to share issues and identify solutions to shape the collective voice of American business.
“IDEAS”Identify Define Execute Analyze Strengthen
Health
Banking & Finance
Hospitality, Travel & Tourism
Education
Infrastructure, Transport & Logistics
Professional Services
Technology
FMCG - Product Focus
Oil, Gas & Petrochemicals
SME
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2
3
4
5
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10
What is the Business Visa Appointment Program (BVAP)?The Business Visa Appointment Program facilitates expedited visa interview appointments for employees of ABC President’s Club, Vice President’s Club and Business members with an urgent need to travel to the United States for a valid business purpose and who are unable to obtain a timely appointment via the U.S. Mission’s internet based appointment system.
How do I qualify for this program?The applicant must be an employee of a President’s Club, Vice President’s Club or Business member to be able to take part in this program.
I am an Individual member of ABC; do I qualify for the BVAP?No. The applicant must be an employee of a President’s Club, Vice President’s Club or Business members of ABC to be able to take part in this program.
Who is not eligible for this program?Contractors, subcontractors, and other applicants who are not employees of ABC Business members are not eligible to participate in the program. Participants in the program must hold a residence visa through the relevant President’s Club, Vice President’s Club or Business member.
Do I have to pay for this program?ABC does not charge a fee for the BVAP.
If the requirements for applying for a visa through BVAP are the same as applying through the U.S. Mission, what are the merits of this program?ABC facilitates the application for business visas by providing expedited visa interview appointments for employees of ABC Business members who are unable to obtain a timely appointment via the U.S. Mission internet based appointment system.
I have tried to make an appointment via the U.S. Consulate in Dubai website, but the appointments are two months from today. I need to travel in three weeks, what should I do?As a President’s Club, Vice President’s Club or Business member of ABC you have access to BVAP. After receiving a complete Request Package, ABC will make an expedited appointment request by contacting the Consulate. In most cases, the desired appointment date will be not less than three business days after the date of the request from ABC.
I am a member of another city/country AmCham. Am I eligible for ABC’s BVAP?We are able to provide our service only to members who are registered with ABC as President’s Club, Vice President’s Club and Business members.
How many appointment requests can I submit to ABC?President’s Club and Vice President’s Club members may submit an unlimited number of appointment requests per year. Business members are limited to ten appointment requests per year.
What are the parameters for business travel?The applicant must demonstrate an urgent need to travel to the U.S. for a valid business purpose and be unable to obtain a timely appointment via the internet based U.S. Mission visa appointment system. Travel for purely vacation or personal reasons is not covered by the Program. However, accompanying family members do not need to be traveling to the U.S. for a business purpose, and an employee’s multiple purpose trips (i.e., business and pleasure) qualify. What documents do I need to provide?For a comprehensive overview please see our website at: http://www.abcdubai.com/site/bvap?nav=02
What is the procedure for the BVAP?Please refer to the procedures section of the program description for details. http://www.abcdubai.com/site/bvap?nav=02
Do all BVAP applicants receive a U.S. visa?Only consular officers can determine visa eligibility under the law, participation in the BVAP in no way guarantees the issuance of a non-immigrant visa.
Does ABC track my visa application?No. Under section 222(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), visa records are confidential. In the interests of confidentiality and privacy, the Mission does not comment on individual applications. ABC is unable to contact the Mission regarding applications once the interview appointment has been set. Applicants who need to contact the Mission regarding their previously submitted cases will find information on how to do so at http://dubai.usconsulate.gov/
What if I do not meet the criteria to participate in this program?ABC Business member employees who need a visa to travel to the U.S., but who do not meet the Program criteria, should review the Consulate’s website for more information about application procedures. http://dubai.usconsulate.gov/
NEW at the ABCBusiness Visa Appointment Program
in Collaboration with the U.S. Mission to the U.A.E.
The ABC’s Business Visa Application Program is available by appointmentPlease contact [email protected]
A member of the U.S. Foreign Service since 1998, he previously served as the Director for Israeli, Palestinian, and Jordanian Affairs on the National Security Staff at the White House.
Mr. Waller’s overseas assignments include service at the U.S. Consulates in Jeddah and Jerusalem, and at the U.S. Embassies in Paris and Baghdad. In Washington, he has served as Deputy Director of the Office of European Regional Security and Political-Military Affairs, as a Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of State and the Under Secretary for Political Affairs, and as Desk Officer for Iran.
Mr. Waller grew up in Missouri. He holds a BA in Near Eastern Studies from Brigham Young University, and a DPhil in Mediterranean Studies from King’s College, London. In 2010 he received the State Department’s James Clement Dunn Award for Excellence in mid-career officers. He speaks Arabic, French, and Spanish.
The ABC formally introduced the Consul General at the General Meeting on September 17, 2012 at the Crowne Plaza Dubai.
The ABC welcomes The Honorable Rob Waller,U.S. Consul General to Dubai
The American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates in association with the United States Consulate General Dubai will host a reception honoring UAE Nationals who have attended US Universities
v Monday, October 15, 2012 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm The Address Dubai Mall Diamond Ballroom
v Welcome Rob Waller, Consul General , US Consulate General Dubai (BA in Near Eastern Studies from Brigham Young University, and a DPhil in Mediterranean Studies from King’s College, London) v Keynote Address His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Ruler, Ras Al Khaimah (BA in Economics and Political Science from University of Michigan)
Emirati Alumni of US Universities – Renewing the Connection إعادة التواصل واللقاء –خريجوا دولة اإلمارات من الجامعات األمريكية
مجلس األعمال االمريكى فى دبى واإلمارات الشمالية بالتعاون مع
القنصلية االمريكية العامة بدبى يدعوكم لحضور حفل استقبال لتكريم السادة مواطنى دولة اإلمارات
الجامعات االمريكيةمن خريجي v
2012أكتوبر 15االثنين مساءا 10:00 -7:00
( دايموند)قاعة الماس , فندق العنوان دبي مول v
الكلمة الترحيبية
روب والر، القنصل العام للواليات المتحده األمريكية
ودكتوراه في , بكالوريوس في دراسات الشرق األدنى من جامعة بريغهام يونغ الفلسفة في دراسات منطقة البحر األبيض المتوسط من جامعة كينغز في لندن
v
المتحدث الرئيسي صاحب السمو الشيخ سعود بن صقر القاسمي
عضو المجلس األعلى حاكم رأس الخيمة (بكالوريوس في االقتصاد والعلوم السياسية من جامعة ميتشيغان)
v Proudly supported by Boeing v
World Economic Forum Ranks UAE 24th Globally
The Global Competitiveness Report, released by the World
Economic Forum ranked the UAE 24th out of 144 countries,
an improvement of three ranks from last year and ahead of
countries such as Australia, New Zealand and Spain.
The UAE placed alongside countries such as the United States,
Japan, Germany, Singapore, and has held been classified as
innovation driven for seven consecutive years, the only Arab
country with this distinction.
The Global Competitiveness Report assesses countries’
competitiveness along the 12 pillars corresponding to three
main stages of economic development: Stage 1: Factor Driven;
Stage 2: Efficiency Driven; and Stage 3: Innovation Driven.
Countries are also classified in the transitions from one stage to
the next as they progress in their economic development.
Commenting on the UAE’s positive results and performance,
Her Excellency Reem Al-Hashimy, Minister of State and
Chairwoman of the Emirates Competitiveness Council (ECC),
noted: “It reflects the government’s endeavors to diversify the
economy and create a robust business environment that enables
creativity and entrepreneurship to be translated into innovative
goods and services.”
The Global Competitiveness Report is the World Economic
Forum’s flagship report. The report assesses countries’
competitive strengths and weaknesses based on executive
opinion surveys over a period of two years.
ECC’s partnership with the public and private sectors is vital to
the UAE’s globally competitive position and to sustaining the
future prosperity of the nation.
The U.S. Commercial Service, in cooperation with the American Business Council of Dubai & Northern Emirates, the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council, presents the Dubai & Northern Emirates – USA Road Show.
This Road Show included a mix of U.S. and U.A.E. government officials, companies, and business organizations to the United States with the objective of increasing awareness among American companies to do business with the United Arab Emirates.
Briefings, networking opportunities, and social functions were organized in each of the above cities so that delegates could discuss potential opportunities and prospects with the local business communities.
USA Road Show
The ABC Office has Moved
New York CityAtlantic City
Minneapolis/St. PaulSeattle
Dallas/Fort Worth
Emarat Atrium, Office #38, Block “B”, Ground FloorSheikh Zayed Road, PO Box 37068, Dubai, UAETel: 04-3791414, Fax: 04-3791515Email: [email protected], www.abcdubai.com
At the September 17th General Meeting the Nominations Committee was confirmed and tasked to begin the process of securing the required candidates who will run for the 2013 Board of Directors. If you have the time to commit and are interested in serving on the Board of Directors, please prepare a brief overview of your qualifications and outline which role you feel would be a good fit and contact a member of the Nominations Committee.
The committee can be contacted at [email protected]. The ABC election will take place in November, culminating during the Annual General Meeting on Wedneday, November 28, 2012 and the Board of Directors assumes position in January 2013.
Nominations Committee Appointed asABC Election Approaches
PresidentUnited States Citizen, American Business Member or American Individual Member.
Executive Vice President United States Citizen, American Business Member or American Individual Member.
Vice President, Membership No citizenship requirement, American Business Member or American Individual Member.
Vice President, Programs No citizenship requirement, American Business Member or American Individual Member.
Vice President, Legal Affairs and SecretaryNo citizenship requirement, American Business Member or American Individual Member.
Vice President, Financial Affairs & TreasurerNo citizenship requirement, American Business Member or American Individual Member.
Five General Board Members No citizenship requirement, all membership categories are eligible to run for general board member positions.
Drive public policy for the business community:
• Lead critical business issues and make a lasting impact
• Actively communicate on issues and be the source of information for business
• Position the ABC as the progressive and effective force in the community
• Give creative solutions that protect taxpayers
• Community engagement
• Knowledge sharing
• Promote U.S. business
• Develop a stronger ABC
• Increase contact with government officials
• Recruit, retain & engage ABC membership
The Nominations Committee can be contacted at the following email address:
ABC is your organization
do YOUhave time to serve?
Requirements for NominationWhy should I serve on the ABC Board?
Now is the time for action!
Certainly, this is what the IRS thinks about US citizens and Green Card holders who are, how should we put this...a little behind with their taxes. Every day we receive phone calls asking for help in getting squared away with the IRS and now is the time for action.
Effective September 1, 2012, the IRS is offering US citizens and Green Card holders living overseas yet another opportunity to come into compliance with the law. Those of us in the know have been waiting for this development since late June when the IRS announced they would be introducing another scheme to bring non-filers back into the fold.
As you may be aware, this is not the first time that the IRS has offered a means for non-filers to get their tax and informational returns up-to-date. In 2009, 2011 and 2012, the IRS offered “Offshore Voluntary Disclosure” options which allowed people to come forward without the risk of potential jail time… as long as you paid some hefty financial penalties. So what does this latest opportunity offer that the previous initiatives did not?
The fact is the IRS wants people to file and the incentive is plain to see: come forward now and as long as you don’t pose a risk, you’re back in the club.
To qualify, the main criteria is that individuals must have been living outside of the US since January 1, 2009 and not filed tax returns for the same period. Further, they must be “low risk” to the IRS, which has effectively been defined as owing $1,500 or less on each year’s tax return.
Filing under this streamlined approach does not remove the risk of criminal penalties but as long as you “fit the pattern” the IRS is looking for, they’re promising that your tax and informational returns will go through a much smoother processing procedure.
How many years need to be filed?
Individuals utilizing this procedure will be required to file tax returns for 2009, 2010 and 2011 and FBARs (Form TD F 90-22.1) for 2006 through 2011 with a specific IRS processing center. In addition, a questionnaire must be completed and submitted to the IRS with the tax returns and FBARs.
It is our experience that many expatriates do not file because they believe they will owe tax to the IRS. We have successfully helped hundreds of people come into compliance with the IRS and the vast majority, do not owe any tax. Some are even pleasantly surprised to find that the IRS owes them money.
How does the IRS assess the level of risk?
The IRS has stated that they will assess the risk level by analyzing several factors. The more factors applying to your situation, the higher your perceived risk level:
• If any of the returns submitted through this program claim a refund
• If there is material economic activity in the United States
• If the taxpayer has not declared all of his/her income in his/her country of residence
• If the taxpayer is under audit or investigation by the IRS
• If FBAR penalties have been previously assessed against the taxpayer or if the taxpayer has previously received an FBAR warning letter
• If the taxpayer has a financial interest or authority over a financial account(s) located outside his/her country of residence
• If the taxpayer has a financial interest in an entity or entities located outside his/her country of residence
• If there is United States source income or if there are indications of sophisticated tax
planning or avoidance.
Andrew J. Landin [email protected]+971 (0)55 135 0137
Susan B. [email protected]+971 (0)55 880 6716
www.expatustax.com
Expat US Tax was established to help the growing number of US citizens and Green Card holders living and working in the Middle East and Australia. We ensure you pay the lowest legal amount of tax possible and we achieve this by preparing your taxes correctly, fully taking advantage of all the deductions, exclusions and credits that you’re entitled to.
We specialize in filing amended tax returns for those of you who had a US based tax preparer file your taxes, where special expatriate deductions were overlooked and not claimed as they should have been, costing you hard-earned dollars.
We have over thirty years of tax experience, over ten of which were with PricewaterhouseCoopers, one of the most prestigious accounting firms in the world, and we are fully licensed tax advisors.
We are a fully-fledged expatriate tax advisory practice with offices in the United Arab Emirates and Australia, providing Big 4 accounting firm quality advice and assistance, but without the Big 4 accounting firm costs. We offer a personal touch that only a boutique tax firm can provide.
Please feel free to contact us for additional information and assistance. We live in the same country as you, we work in the same time zone as you, and we are always available to take your call.
IRS Regulations - ARE YOU AT RISK?
The Middle East Council of American Chambers of Commerce (MECACC), of which the ABC is a founding member, will be embarking on a GCC regional chapter tour in October. Stops are scheduled in Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam in Saudi Arabia; Dubai and Abu Dhabi in UAE; Kuwait and Qatar in its commitment to understand the issues of concern of its member chapters. Anne Jafery, MECACC Chairman commented.
During the tour, Mike Jones of Capitol Capital Group, MECACC’s D.C. representative will present a comprehensive review of the key issues it currently champions on behalf of overseas Americans such as the FEIE and FATCA offering an ‘inside the beltway perspective’. He will also discuss how the potential election outcome will impact key issues for American business overseas at both a state and federal level.
In addition to offering information, MECACC will be listening. The Chapter visits will allow members to identify issues of concern that MECACC can support, and discuss strategy with the groups to seek input.
“To truly represent the issues important to American businesses operating in the GCC, it’s important that our organization engages with the chapter’s leadership and members on a regular basis. Bringing the critical issues back to Washington, D.C. is an important part of what our organization offers.”
ABC’s Public Affairs Committee works closely with MECACC and is chaired by Mr. Bilal Sabouni. If you have interest in serving as part of this committee, please contact ABC’s Executive Director at director@
abcdubai.com
Direct from Washington - October 14, 2012Middle East Council of American Chambers of Commerce
Chairman & DC Representative to Tour the Region, “Enhancing engagement at the chapter level”
Americans Abroad = US Expats = US Jobs
Community NewsAmerica’s past time returns to Dubai with Dubai Little League embarking on its 15th season in November! DLL has a rich history as a pillar of the American community in Dubai. Last year 428 boys and girls representing 38 nationalities played baseball and softball with DLL and the league is moving from strength to strength, expecting even more players this year.
DLL baseball and softball is open to children from ages 4 to 18 and all skill levels are welcome! DLL is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization recognized by Dubai’s Community Development Authority. As with Little League organizations the world over, corporate sponsorship is the lifeblood of DLL.
Sponsorships of all types are available starting with team sponsorships at only AED 8000. Sponsorship at DLL offers a variety of marketing opportunities and provides an excellent avenue for corporates to become more integrally involved in Dubai’s American community. Great organizations including American Express, Chevrolet, Cisco, Deloitte, Emirates, Pepsi, NOV and Subway are generous sponsors of DLL.
Let’s play ball!OPENING DAY
November 2012
Join them today!For more information on sponsorships contact
Greg Sproule Tom [email protected] [email protected]
08 Fall
DUBAI DUKE LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP
DUKE UNIVERSITY EXECUTIVE EDUCATION
ALL GREAT LEADERS HAVE ONE THING IN COMMON They constantly refine their approach. With the Dubai Duke Leadership Workshop, you’ll learn to hone your leadership skills in an intense and supportive environment while capitalizing on your strengths and overcoming challenges. This program is perfect for high-level executives, managers with current or anticipated leadership responsibilities, and employees who lead and influence others in the course of their work.
The program teaches six dimensions of leadership behavior that help you develop your core competencies and enhance your impact.
Your colleagues will fill out a 360 assessment where you can analyze the results and apply them to your leadership technique.
Work with instructors on a Leadership Action Design (LAD) to meet a current or upcoming leadership or business challenge.
Outcomes
Become more intentional and strategic in your leadership Project empathy linked to your vision, values, and expertise Build coherence by clarifying roles, rules, and processes Exhibit optimism and enthusiasm to elicit innovation and
excellence from others Provide the resources and support to encourage savvy risk-taking Lead effectively in times of change and crisis Create a cohesive team
Learn more or apply today: www.ee.fuqua.duke.edu
Location Radisson Blu Media City Dubai UAE
Upcoming Program Dates November 6-8, 2012
Program Length
3 Days
Cost $3,900 USD general registration Register by October 4th and pay $3500 USD early registration (Includes tuition, instructional materials, breakfast and lunch. Travel expenses and accommodations not included.)
Who Should Attend Executives Managers Employees on a managerial track Individual contributors who lead and influence others.
Duke Executive Education [email protected] + 9714.401.9306 +1 800.372.3932
DIFC - Centre of Excellence Gate Village | Building 2, Level 3
PO Box 74777 | Dubai, UAE Tel: +9714 401 9306 | Web: http://www.fuqua.duke.edu
The City Hospital supports
Breast Cancer Awareness MonthMany new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each year. The good news is that with early, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, breast cancer survivors live improved, productive lives. The Breast Cancer Unit at The City Hospital is a multidisciplinary, well-established group of experts with a specialist role in the diagnosis, treatment and management of people with breast cancer. The team comprises doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals who manage the treatment of breast cancers in Dubai. Now is a great time to book a mammogram for yourself or someone close to you. Don’t put it off, early detection can save lives.
Managed by EHL | A member of Mediclinic International
Dubai Healthcare City, Building 37PO Box 505004, Dubai, U.A.E.
T: +971 4 435 9999M: +971 55 605 3035
www.thecityhospital.com
COMING UP ON OUR CALENDAR
October 14Breakfast Meeting with MECACC Delegation
October 15ABC ReceptionHonoring Emirati Alumni of U.S. Universities
November 7General MeetingElection Returns BreakfastAnnounce ABC Board Candidates
November 19IDEAS a Business Forum
November 14-26ABC Elects 2013 Board of Directors “ONLINE”
November 28Annual General MeetingAnnounce 2013 Board of Directors
Throughout November Membership Renewals Drive
Monday, November 19, 2012Registration - 12:30 pm
Buffet Lunch 12:30 - 13:30 pm
Program 13:30 – 17:30 pmReception - 17:30 pm
The Meydan HotelTurf Lounge
Register NOW!www.abcdubai.com
Book byOct 20& save
AED 100/-
ABC Mem
ber S
pecia
l!
“IDEAS”Identify Define Execute Analyze Strengthen
a Business Forumhosted by the American Business Council of Dubai &
the Northern Emirates
Click Here to Register
visit www.abcdubai.comfor more details for all these events.