Nothing is certain but death and taxes, or so the American phrase goes. In the Middle East, we might say that nothing is certain except death and changes. At least in the business world that’s the case, especially after the economic catastrophe that started last year. Many people are dealing with life-changing circumstances — losing their jobs, their homes, their savings; being forced to move, sometimes out of a country they have grown to love; seeing the businesses they worked so hard to build suffer and collapse under the strain. 

In times like this, we all have to learn to cope. Some people view the changes as a new beginning, a chance to start over and to try not to make the same mistakes.  Businesses can do the same. A crisis can help business leaders understand what’s really important, so they can cut through the red tape and renew the business’ purpose and vision. Of course, it’s not easy addressing such fundamental questions, but periodic evolution is critical for every organization’s survival.

I’m a big fan of new beginnings, and business evolution (or transformation some might call it). That’s why I’m especially proud to be part of the 2009 Leaders in Dubai Business Forum. The theme for this one-of-a-kind event is “A New Beginning” and the focus will be on learning from the past to create new strategies, visions and plans for the future of business in the Middle East, and around the world.

In addition to the chance to meet 1,500 fellow business executives, the conference offers a very impressive list of speakers including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, The Hon. Al Gore, strategist Gary Hamel,  David Plouffe (President Obama’s campaign manager), and many more insightful presenters.

I’m looking forward to it very much. I hope to see you there!