Est. 2025 · Abu DhabiFollowInstagramLinkedIn

A Private Forum

Where Black Leadersconnect, lead and excel

A premier network for senior executives, directors and established business owners in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi · United Arab EmiratesConnect · Empower · Elevate

Our Purpose

Why we exist

The Abu Dhabi Black Leaders Forum exists to create a trusted space where accomplished Black professionals and business leaders can build meaningful relationships, share experiences and create opportunities for one another.

Abu Dhabi is home to a growing community of Black executives and founders, yet few rooms bring them together with intention. We built the Forum to be that room: curated, confidential and focused on the people in it.

4Founders review every application
12Curated events a year
4Private dinners exclusively for members

The Room

Built for those who lead organisations, run businesses and sit at the decision-making table.

Who is in the room

C-suite · Directors · VPs · Founders · Business owners

Sectors

Open to all

The standard

Membership by invitation, referral and application

i.

Exclusive networking events

Meet and build relationships with top Black professionals and business owners.

ii.

Private dinners and roundtables

Intimate evenings with speakers and decision-makers, held quarterly in private settings.

iii.

Introductions on request

Ask for an introduction to a member by shared interest, business opportunity or expertise, and we will make it personally.

iv.

Visibility and voice

Member spotlights, a vetted member directory, and invitations to speak, host and lead discussion.

Members in conversation around a candlelit dinner table

The Table

Small rooms. Meaningful conversations.

Our gatherings are small by design: a considered guest list, a private room and conversation that stays in it. Each evening pairs a speaker or fireside chat with curated introductions.

Frequency
Quarterly
Setting
Private venues
Access
By invitation

From Our Gatherings

Evenings in the room

Members in conversation at a dinner table
A speaker leading a fireside chat
Guests networking at an evening reception

The Founders

Who is behind the Forum

Four founders. Two decades of experience in Abu Dhabi. One shared vision.

The Abu Dhabi Black Leaders Forum was founded by four individuals, two entrepreneurs and two corporate professionals, united by a shared passion for connecting people, unlocking opportunities, and empowering the next generation of Black leaders.

With over two decades of combined experience living and working in Abu Dhabi, our founders bring diverse perspectives, extensive networks, and a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges of building successful careers and businesses in the region.

Together, they recognised the power of creating a community where Black leaders can connect meaningfully, share knowledge, open doors for one another, and inspire those coming behind them.

Our vision is simple: to build a strong, connected, and influential community of Black leaders who thrive individually and create opportunities for others to succeed.

Membership

By invitation, referral and application

Membership is primarily by invitation and referral. However, accomplished leaders who share our values are welcome to express their interest. Both tracks are for leaders who live or work in Abu Dhabi.

For senior executives

Professional

Who it's for
C-suite executives, Directors and VPs. Senior managers and AVPs with a strong leadership track record may also be considered.
Organisations
Recognised companies, government entities and multinationals.
What you receive
Curated introductions to senior peers and decision-makers, leadership roundtables, and invitations to speak and host.
Annual fee
500 AED per year, confirmed during the membership review process.

For founders and owners

Business Owner

Who it's for
Owners and co-owners of an established, registered business, ideally operating for two or more years, in the UAE or abroad.
Presence
An active website or social media presence.
What you receive
Introductions to clients, partners and investors, spotlights for your business, and a listing in the member directory.
Annual fee
500 AED per year, confirmed during the membership review process.

An annual membership fee of 500 AED applies. Payment details are shared during the membership review process.

Next Gathering

You are invited

The Abu Dhabi Black Leaders Forum

Know Your Worth

Date
Tuesday 17th November
Time
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Venue
Abu Dhabi City
Dress
Smart Casual

The exact venue is shared upon registration.

A welcome from the founders, a fireside chat with [Speaker], and curated introductions over dinner.

Express Your Interest

The Process

Three considered steps

  1. Step One

    Express your interest

    Share a few details about your role and background, or be referred by a member.

  2. Step Two

    Personal review

    The founders review every enquiry personally.

  3. Step Three

    Welcome

    Approved members receive an invitation to the private member group and our next dinner.

We aim to respond to all membership enquiries within five working days.

Questions

Frequently asked

A seat at the table. A voice in the room.

Every enquiry is reviewed personally by the founders. We will be in touch.

Express Your Interest