Arab American Chamber Prepares for MENA Trade Delegation

In a celebration of economic collaboration and cultural heritage, the American Arab Chamber of Commerce hosted its 32nd Annual “Building Economic Bridges Gala” in Dearborn, Michigan. As the largest gathering of Arab American business leaders in the United States, the event brought together over 850 attendees, representing a diverse array of companies from Michigan and across the nation.

The evening was marked by a keynote address from Jose W. Fernandez, Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment. During his remarks, Under Secretary Fernandez revealed plans for a significant trade delegation set for December, in partnership with the Chamber and the Michigan Municipal League and Foundation. The delegation will visit Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, aiming to strengthen international business ties, promote global engagement, and position Michigan as a centre for innovation and economic growth. This initiative is part of the broader Michigan Subnational Diplomacy strategy, which Fernandez announced earlier this year.

Expressing his appreciation for the ongoing relationship with the Chamber, Under Secretary Fernandez said, “It is always good to be among friends like Ahmad and the Chamber. I am honoured they invited me to be the keynote speaker at their annual Gala, and I am looking forward to building economic bridges between Michigan, the Arab American community, and the MENA Region on our trade delegation in December. The trip will support the State Department’s partnership with the Michigan Municipal League Foundation to further subnational diplomacy here in Michigan.”

Ahmed Chebbani, Founder and Chairman of the Chamber, shared his admiration for Fernandez’s continued support: “I have known and worked with Under Secretary Fernandez for several years, and every time we get together I am more and more impressed with his authenticity, his leadership in engaging our community, and his commitment to doing the right thing. I am thrilled that he came to address our Chamber, as it was critical that our representatives hear directly from his experience. With people like Jose in government, I know we have someone who understands us and is always willing to work with us. I am looking forward to our trade delegation to the MENA Region in December.”

Bilal Hammoud, Executive Director of the Chamber, underscored the importance of this gathering and the upcoming delegation: “Our mission has always been to empower Arab American entrepreneurs and businesses, not just here in Michigan but across the globe. Events like tonight’s gala remind us of the power of collaboration, innovation, and community. Under Secretary Fernandez has been a strong voice, and his participation reflects the importance of strengthening bridges between local economies and international markets. The upcoming trade delegation to the MENA Region is a prime example of how we, as a chamber, are committed to creating new opportunities for our community and the State of Michigan, fostering mutual economic growth, and positioning Michigan as a global leader in commerce. Together, we are opening doors for Arab American businesses to thrive and building lasting connections that will drive success for generations to come.”

Reflecting on the broader vision, Hammoud added, “The upcoming trade delegation to the MENA region will not only create new opportunities for Arab American businesses and Michigan’s economy but also allow us to bring back best practices from global innovation hubs. By fostering long-term partnerships, we aim to unlock opportunities that position Michigan as a leader in commerce and entrepreneurship. Together, we are paving the way for sustainable growth and ensuring our businesses thrive well into the future.”

As the evening drew to a close, the Chamber’s commitment to economic empowerment and cross-cultural engagement remained clear, setting a hopeful tone for the continued prosperity of Arab American businesses and their contributions to Michigan's global economic standing.