Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Founding Chairman, Al Habtoor Group met with HE Barbara Leaf, the outgoing US Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates at his office on Monday 26 February 2018. The Ambassador, who has been in her position since 2014, is due to retire from government in the coming weeks.
Al Habtoor wished Her Excellency well as her three-year term as US Ambassador to the UAE comes to an end next month. Al Habtoor, who has just returned from a visit to the United States, said he has always valued their friendship.
“I wish Her Excellency the very best in the US. Ambassador Leaf has made good progress in deepening the relationship between the UAE and the United States and she has always made an effort to meet with key business leaders during her term. I have enjoyed our meetings,” he said.
They discussed the improving economic climate in Dubai, and the strong relationship between the US and UAE, as well as regional issues that remain up in the air.
Al Habtoor said, “The Arab world is a volatile region. However, the United Arab Emirates provides stability to the region. It is the safe haven of the world for investors. Our economy is strong and continues to strengthen. Business is good, and residents and tourists continue to flock to the UAE.”