Australian business strengthened in the Gulf Corporation Council

New Association (ABMA) formed to build business opportunities

Abu Dhabi, UAE, October 24 2016:  A new network of Australian Business Groups in the Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) has been formed to drive closer collaboration and new business opportunities in the region.

The Australian Business Group Middle East Association (ABMA) has been created by existing business groups in GCC countries in an effort to share resources and business networks. The amalgamation serves to create a not-for-profit association for all Australian business groups and their members, along with access to an open regional network. 

ABMA has been enthusiastically supported by the Australian Ambassador to the UAE His Excellency Arthur Spyrou, as well as the Senior Trade Commissioner to the region Mr Gerard Seeber. His Excellency Dr. Ralph King, Australian Ambassador, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain also officiated the launch of Oman’s participation at The Australian Business Groups’ networking event in Muscat.

“I’m delighted to encourage the efforts of Australian business groups in the region to help improve communication with colleagues and share information and know-how,” said HE Spyrou.

After 23 years of growth and partnership between Australia and the Middle East, which first started with a business group in Dubai, there are now Australian Business Groups in every GCC country.

“There has always been an informal collaboration between the Australian Business Groups, however, ABMA will form the foundation of a new and exciting era for Australian businesses in the GCC,” said Ellecia Saffron, Chairman Australian Business Group Abu Dhabi.

“This is something our members have been wanting for some time. ABMA is the result of true collaboration and service from those on the board of each group,” she added.

Ms Saffron said as companies become more established, they might seek opportunities to expand their interests to other GCC countries, or seek to have access to markets throughout the entire region.

To assist such expansion, ABMA has launched a website www.abma.me that links the six Australian business groups together. The website will enable members in any GCC region to seamlessly access business, networking and social events.

Additionally, ABMA will provide business news, and allow strategic collaboration within the affiliated groups. This will help in opening new channels of communication and increase opportunities and business connections for all of its members.

'With over 1,500 participating members, our networks are extensive and continue to grow in their influence,' said Penny Couchman, Chair of The Australian Business Council Dubai.

“This initiative is a great development for Australian businesses seeking opportunities in the region. It will strengthen ‘Team Australia’ and will add to our many success stories.”

ABMA's new website was launched simultaneously by all groups involved earlier this month.