ACE Middle East Group

Many of ACE's member firms work in the Middle East, underlining the significant reputation of UK consultancy and engineering firms for providing world-class consultancy services to clients across the globe. In order to keep abreast of international issues and to assist members working in the region, ACE has formed an ACE Middle East Group (ACE MEG). This group, which is responsible for the development of ACE's international strategy and initiatives, meets at least four times a year.

The ACE Middle East Group was created in order to influence the commercial environment in which ACE and members in the region operate in the GCC region. The group’s aim is to improve the business performance for its member firms and increase the opportunities available to them. It was particularly apt that it formed in the year that Dubai World’s financial troubles rocked markets around the globe, showing the significance of the region’s affairs.

Nelson Ogunshakin explained: “The UAE is a strategic market for consultancy and engineering projects and we need to ensure the sector is fully supported there. This new group helps to make that happen as we deal with issues such as late payment, fair condition of engagements, risk management and health and safety there.”

A major task for the group is to ensure that ACE is kept abreast and ahead of regional changes. That should strengthening ACE as the voice of the industry in the Middle East.

ACE has and will continue to work with all relevant parties to advocate effective resolution of the long term challenges facing members within the industry in the Middle East.

ACE Middle East Group – Objectives

• To improve connectivity between ACE members in the region and ACE UK for better understanding on what the regional issues are through regular dialogue with companies and headquarters and vice versa.
• To keep abreast of and ahead of regional changes, including regional spending plans and to identify the key priorities facing ACE members' businesses in the region and to develop strategies to address these impacts.
• To be the regional voice of ACE for stakeholders and clients.
• To endorse relevant training for professional consultancy and engineering staff.
• To promote the standardisation of fair contracts throughout the region with particular emphasis on FIDIC terms and conditions, NEC, ACE Agreements and prompt payment for services.
• To promote the services, capabilities and expertise of ACE members to relevant entities in Middle East region.
• To promote awareness between ACE members of companies’ respective skills, expertise and regional presence as a means of facilitating collaboration in joint pursuit of projects.
• To connect with non member firms in the region and encourage their participation in ACE activities. 

• Dr. Nelson Ogunshakin OBE (Chief Executive)
• Naomi Bari (Corporate Relations Manager)