One question can suffice what His Excellency Dr. Rashid Al Leem (Chairman, Sharjah Electricity & Water Authority) is all about. The question is how many non-royal family members have held a higher position in the UAE government? The answer is one, Dr. Rashid Al Leem. At a considerably young age of 33, Dr. Rashid was chosen to hold the position of Director-general of Hamriyah Free Zone Authority. During his tenure, His Excellency took the Free Zone membership from 76 companies to 6000 companies representing 159 countries. The world just sat back and looked at Dr. Rashid with admiration. Engr Obaid Rashid Al Leem was born on 1 December 1966 to a middleclass family. In 1983, His Excellency Dr. Rashid went to abroad for the higher education. He completed professional education in abroad. After finishing his study, Dr. Rashid joined Amoco Oil in 1989. In 1989, he received the diploma in petroleum engineering from Azusa Pacific University, Los Angeles. In 2004, he obtained MBA from Atlantic University, Florida and in 2012, he also received the Ph.D. degree in management from University of Salford, UK. He also holds multiple honorary doctorates from Somalia University for Humanitarian Services and American University in the United States.
He served for over a decade as Director General, Department of Seaports and Customs and Sharjah Free Zones Authority. During the period of the year 2000, the department was not doing too good, and no one was really expecting a miracle from Dr. Rashid. Nobody took it as a prospective business for the government at those days. Dr. Rashid had other ideas and was successful in transforming the zones into a strategic commerce hub empowering thousands of businesses in the region, thereby contributing to the development of the UAE economy. He has been instrumental in bringing on board over 12,000 companies from across 157 nations attracting a whopping $ 40 billion FDI. Dr. Alleem’s leadership qualities seemed to have no barrier as he helped create business excellence on other fronts as well. His association as Vice Chairman of World Association of Small and Medium Enterprises as also of other organizations like Sharjah Charity International, Sharjah Medical Zone, German-Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce and World Trade Development Council in Hong Kong, his contribution in enriching the business ecosystem has been noteworthy.
The Arab world has produces some great writers like Hafez Al Assad, Ameen Rihani etc. who makes the readers think. Their writings are intended to bring enlightenment and knowledge. The Arabs have always been passionate writers. Dr. Rashid’s contribution to the world of literature has been significant. His writings in both English and Arabic has been praiseworthy. Dr. Rashid Alleem is the author of several books on management and leadership. His recent book ‘My Green Journey in Hamriyah’, a candid account of his endeavors in improving the environment and his green message sent across not only to entrepreneurs but also organizations worldwide has been well received. The book has been applauded for its professional and practical approach on many knowledge platforms. Another book he authored is ‘My Leadership Secrets’, written in English and translated into Arabic, the German language is a much sought after in the several circuits. He frequently addresses a diverse range of audience on the development of human capital and socially responsible business empowerment initiatives. “Global marketing is the process of focusing the resources and objectives of a company on global marketing opportunities. It is commonly on global marketing opportunities. It is commonly referred to as ‘International Marketing’ which means the multinational process of planning and executing the conception, pricing, promotion, and distribution of ideas, goods, and services to create exchanges that satisfy individuals and organizational objective,” said Dr. Alleem, on his book, Successful Marketing Plan.
His Excellency Dr. Rashid Al Leem is an honorary visiting faculty in numerous local and international universities addressing almost 15,000 people a year. He is an excellent speaker who likes to address students across the globe. He feels that it is also a way for him to learn from the youth to whom tomorrow belongs. Connecting with people from different places enables him to understand what he can do to make his country even better. He sees this as also an opportunity to make people understand that UAE is an inviting place for all who wishes to do business there. He wants people to understand how accepting the people of UAE are to all. Dr. Alleem also truly believes that excellence can be achieved only through sustainability by aligning commercial, social and environmental objectives. He stresses the importance of a much cleaner environment on every platform he gets. Within a year of being appointed the Chairman of SEWA, Dr. Rashid cut to the chase and founded Alleem Knowledge Center, a not- for- profit organization, which is a testament to his numerous initiatives and relentless efforts to promote leadership potential and to enrich the tenets of knowledge sharing. It was one of the most selfless act the Arab world saw in recent times. They realized that Dr. Rashid was serious in what he does, and this man has many sleepless nights for the betterment of his country. There are various strategy clubs that have sprung up as a result of the Aleem Knowledge Center. One of those is the Alleem Book Club. It is a forum for members to discuss a book they have read and express their opinion, likes or dislikes thereby giving an exchange of ideas and a healthy discussion on a wide range of issues outside the purview of selected titles. “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader,” says Dr. Allem, to his club members. Another club, which shows everyone how thoughtful the man really is, is the, Alleem Human Resources (HR) Club. He recognizes human capital is an important component for the success oa any organization. Apart from helping develop vital people management skills, the Alleem Human Resources Club will also enable members to gain insight into current HR trends and keep abreast of emerging HR developments. The HR Club is for knowledge sharing and helping each other, says Dr. Rashid.
The world was struck by a fearsome financial meltdown in September 2008. Many say that storm came from the gulf resulting in the crash of the global economy. For Dr. Alleem, this was just another day at the office, and he didn’t see a reason to hit the panic button. He saw this as an opportunity and went about doing his job just the way he does as usual. Soon people realized that the man was creating fresh benchmarks for the industry in an effort to mentor and prepare the industry captains to withstand a crisis. Alleem Knowledge Center chalked out an elaborate agenda for organizing various events under the banner – Alleem Business Congress– addressing various key issues through this unique forum.
According to him, SEWA is in the process of establishing strategic partnerships with major international companies to achieve a sustainable future. Saving water and power are something he takes really seriously. He says Rolls-Royce is one of the most important partners who have contributed to the successful completion of several development projects in Sharjah with the help of latest technology and top class services.
Alleem Business Congress went about setting lofty benchmarks against the best international practices. Alleem Business Congress provides a wide platform where business leaders meet and work together to address survival strategies as well as the economic, social and environmental challenges of sustainable development by deliberating on Energy and Water, Leadership & Management, Project Management, Sustainable Development & Inclusive Growth and Marketing & Branding. This year it is going to be their eighth annual congress meet. The following are the categories being deliberated on the meet this coming year Water & Energy Congress This is to address the key global goals on sustainable management of water and sanitation for all and ensuring access to affordable, reliable and sustainable modern energy, the Alleem Bussiness Congress (ABC) announced the first WATER and ENERGY WEEK 2016 which is to be held from 14th – 18th February 2016 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Sharjah UAE. The ABC is an eminent platform by bringing the governments, UN bodies, prominent leaders, private enterprises and businesses, the general public and students to showcase and foster clean energy and water solutions. This forum will identify a state of the art of water solutions, and build a sustainable pathway.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), by 2050, global energy demand will nearly double while the water and food demand are set to increase by over 50%. It is a formidable challenge to meet the requirements amid dwindling resources on the one hand and mounting impacts of climate change on the other. The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) continue to experience rapid developments that evidenced in its many new major industrial, commercial, construction, and agricultural projects. This growth has resulted in a huge demand for water across all Emirates, where surface water resources are nearly nonexistent. The aging infrastructure, ever expanding cityscapes, competing needs both for water and energy pose enormous challenges for the utilities and planners.
LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT CONGRESS WEEK
Here, you can unlock your potential that will help you understand the principles of leadership and provide development opportunities to promote personal growth and leadership excellence. Ultimately, a leader doesn’t just build a business; a leader builds an organization that builds a business. According to Dr. Alleem, “leadership is about change; it is about making things happen. Everything changes so fast today that the key is often not what you’ve learned, but how fast you can learn”. The main topics of this congress will be Create Leadership Philosophy, Project Management, and Benchmarking.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONGRESS
Dr. Rashid personally feels that the recent crisis in the financial market is taking the Project Management to a new level. Project management is evolving. The fundamental principles are fairly stable, but the knowledge of how to apply them continues to evolve. Globalization and increased competition are causing increased demand for project management. So, for organizations to survive in this meltdown period they must adopt the nine knowledge areas of project management to enable them to do different things at the right times so the end result is what is wanted The spirit of evolution in companies all over the world with the high dynamic power of investors welcome project management congress into their business level to improve the economic conditions of the people. Unlike many traditional project planning, this project management provides ample guidance to plan globally their business and generate new leads. This congress aims to promote the company of attendees to a global business audience. It will also them to meet with potential investors who are actively seeking suitable locations for their business. There will be the emphasis to create awareness among target investors and promote the best aspects of investing in companies. It also gives young entrepreneurs to learn more about potential investor’s needs as they can meet them personally. They will get the opportunity to meet more investors in two days of the congress than they will in an entire year.
MARKETING & BRANDING CONGRESS WEEK
It is said that in the 21st century, branding will be the only unique differentiator between companies. How can you make your brand stand out amidst so much market noise? At the Marketing & Branding Congress, you can learn how to build transparency and embed a clear understanding of your brand in consumers’ minds. “Writing a Marketing Plan is similar to putting together a complicated puzzle. Each piece contains information that makes sense only when you see the finished product” Rashid Alleem Founder & Chairman, Alleem Knowledge Center
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT & INCLUSIVE GROWTH CONGRESS WEEK
This Congress stresses on the need to emulate the principles of sustainable development and inclusive growth to be able to meet global challenges and global sustainability. By learning about international trends and opportunities in sustainability, you will gain fresh insights into how these could be applied in different growth areas and verticals to help you take on the challenges and reap benefits in your organization. Dr. Rashid and his leadership are a regular topic of discussion for many of his circle and it also seems he’s the media’s favorite go-to person. His comments that are quoted in both local and international publications are never gone unnoticed. His thought- provoking articles have been the subject of discussions in various socio-economic events at national and international platforms. Being a renowned figure with the local and overseas media, Dr. Alleem’s interview with BBC World English Channel for its Middle East Business Report segment broadcast to an international audience created a huge wave at home and abroad and more recently he interviewed by Deutsche Welle –DW a German international broadcaster, for ‘Made in German Report’.
His out of the box thinking along with his quick to adapt capability is a deadly combination when it combines with his vast experience of leadership he gained in two decades. He is well respected by businessmen and dignitaries around the globe. That for one reason is perhaps why they acknowledged him as a ‘Change Leader’ who is striving relentlessly to usher in a new business ecosystem.
Excluding the Ph.D. from the University of Salford, Manchester, UK, and the an honorary Ph.D from Atlantic International University (USA) in recognition of his achievements in the socio-economic fields, along with honorary doctorates from Somalia University for Humanitarian Services and American Global International University in the US for his global business contributions and numerous academic achievements, he has received various other accolades, including Achievement Award by League of Arab States 2007, Gold Medal from the Mayor of Cannes for environmental efforts 2007,Excellence in Leadership award from ASSOCHAM in India 2008 and Celebrity of the Year by Khaleej Times newspaper.
Paying tribute to Dr. Alleem’s expert administrative judgment,Dr. Alleem was honored with the ‘Golden Arrow Award’ on 18th Feb 2014 in Dubai. On 3rd April 2014, he was recognized as ‘Goodwill Ambassador for Peace, Care and Relief in GCC Countries, Middle East and North Africa’ by the International Organization for Peace, Care and Relief and Member of the Economic and Social Council of The United Nations. Dr. Rashid, in recent times, was recognized as “THE KNOWLEDGE AMBASSADOR OF UAE 2015” by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.
None of these really does explain how good a leader he truly is. On his interview with Cochin Herald, he won all hearts when he said that while he was holding the earlier position as Director General of the Free Zone, Port, Airport and Customs, he had never been encountered with any problem which was difficult to tackle. That is because of the dedication of his team members who have supported him in his every hurdle. He said it was their unstinted support and co-operation that enabled him the administration successfully.
These are the words of man under whom there was a tremendous growth from 76 companies to 6000 and more companies from 159 countries. Modesty is the least that anyone can say of him. The world wishes there are more leaders like him. He’s the pride of Sharjah. But Dr. Rashid Al Leem’s knowledge is not just for the people of UAE. He wishes well for all and tries to spread his enlightenment. All he expects in return is a cleaner, much peaceful world. Some people are born to make this world a better place. Names like His Excellency Dr. Rashid Al Leem can be heard no matter wherever you are. Because they are the real heroes the world deserves.
Rashid Al Leem has authored many acclaimed books and articles in journals and magazines in both Arabic and English, including his recent book My Leadership Secrets. Much sought after in the speaker’s circuit. He is acknowledged by the industry as a “Change Leader” thanks to his leadership experience gained over two decades in the international business arena. With a Ph.D. from University of Salford, Manchester, UK, and multiple honorary doctorates from Somalia University for Humanitarian Services and American Global International University in the US for his global business contributions and numerous academic accreditations, Al Leem is an embodiment of a lifelong learner and harnessing intellectual capital.
A testament to his efforts are the various accolades he has received, including the Achievement Award by League of Arab States, Gold Medal from the Mayor of Cannes for environmental efforts, Excellence in Leadership award from ASSOCHAM in India and Celebrity of the Year by Khaleej Times.
He’s been endorsed as a Maritime Personality for 2009 by Marine Biz TV and acclaimed as Middle East Business Leaders Awards 2012 as a tribute to his acumen in Training & Human Capital Development. Recently, he has conferred the Jewels of Muslim World Award 2012 in Jakarta in recognition of his achievements as one of the top nine movers of the Islamic economics and bestowed the honor of Environmentalist of the Year 2012 in Malaysia in recognition of his contributions towards a sustainable environment. He is known among his peers as the Green Ambassador of the UAE.
Dr. Alleem has been awarded and named the Global Champion of Climate Change at the opening of the ‘Youth & Climate Change’ conference organized by the Youth Exnora International at the prestigious IIT Madras campus, in India. A new beginning – water and energy for all and forever To address the key global goals on sustainable management of water and sanitation for all and ensuring access to affordable, reliable and sustainable modern energy, the Alleem Bussiness Congress (ABC) proudly announces the first WATER and ENERGY WEEK 2016 to be held on 14th – 18th February 2016 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Sharjah UAE. The ABC is an eminent platform by bringing the governments, UN bodies, prominent leaders, private enterprises and businesses, the general public and students to showcase and foster clean energy and water solutions. This forum will identify a state of the art of water solutions, and build a sustainable pathway.
Challenges before UAE’s water and energy security According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), by 2050, global energy demand will nearly double while the water and food demand are set to increase by over 50%. It is a formidable challenge to meet the requirements amid dwindling resources on the one hand and mounting impacts of climate change on the other.
The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) continue to experience rapid developments that evidenced in its many new major industrial, commercial, construction, and agricultural projects. This growth has resulted in a huge demand for water across all Emirates, where surface water resources are nearly nonexistent.
The aging infrastructure, ever expanding cityscapes, competing needs both for water and energy pose enormous challenges for the utilities and planners.
