Since its inception in 2003 at the initiative of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Economic Council (DEC) has and continues to play a major role in supporting the Government of Dubai's economic policy decision-making. The Dubai Economic Council, chaired by H.E. Juma Al Majed, comprises leading businessmen and officials representing the most vital sectors of the Emirate's economy, and a Secretariat General led by H.E. Hani Al Hamli encompassing a world-class team of economists, strategists, researchers and legal advisors. In its short history the DEC has transformed itself into a vital player in advancing Dubai's economic agenda providing the Emirate with sound economic policy recommendations that are the culmination of extensive, cutting-edge research, and dynamic dialogue built on the contributions of representatives of the public and private sectors and world-renowned academics. As Dubai's position in the global economy advanced with increasing momentum, the DEC evolved to accompany the growing needs of Dubai and the UAE as a whole, which stands as testimony to the DEC's crucial role in shaping Dubai's economic reality. In light of this, the Secretariat established the Economic Policy and Research Center (EPRC) and the Legal Affairs and Research Center (LARC); which together form the operational arms of the Dubai Economic Council. The DEC's ambitious agenda is shaped by a set of mandates from which its vision, mission, and strategic objectives are drawn with an eye to not only be an integral partner in Dubai's and UAE's economy, but to develop into a strategic centre for economic policy research and study in the region.