PRIVACY POLICY
Thank you for your interest in the Middle East Chamber of Buyers. We are committed to safeguarding your privacy and ensuring the security of the information you provide through our “Join the MECOB” form (https://www.middleeastchamberofbuyers.com/join-the-mecob) and subsequent communications. This privacy policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal and sensitive data in compliance with the UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection. By submitting your information, you agree to the terms outlined in this policy.
WHO WE ARE Our website address is: https://www.middleeastchamberofbuyers.com.
INFORMATION COLLECTED When you fill out the “Join the MECOB” form on our website, we collect standard business information, including:
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Company Name, Title/Position, Signatory Name, Birthday, Legal Address, VAT/Company Registration No., Official Work Email, Phone Number, Store Names/Locations, and Product Categories.
Sensitive Data Collection (For Travel & Events): For members selected to participate in international delegations, we may separately request and collect sensitive personal data based on your explicit consent, including:
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Passport copies and personal identification details (collected strictly when necessary for travel arrangements, visa processing, or security clearances for international events).
HOW WE USE YOUR INFORMATION We use your information for the following purposes:
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Association Processing: To process your application, verify eligibility, and manage your membership.
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Communication: To inform you about membership updates, upcoming events, and include you in our Newsletter.
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Statistical Analysis: To better understand the industries our associates represent.
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Travel & Event Logistics (Cross-Border Transfer): We use your passport and sensitive identification data solely to facilitate complimentary travel, accommodation, and access to international events. This requires transferring your data securely to essential third parties, such as airlines, hotels, embassies, and event organizers, which may be located outside the UAE.
DATA SECURITY We are committed to ensuring the security of your data. We implement stringent technical and organizational measures to prevent unauthorized access. Passport copies and sensitive documents are stored using advanced encryption and are accessible only by strictly authorized personnel through Role-Based Access Control (RBAC). We do not disclose your data to unauthorized third parties.
DATA RETENTION General membership data is retained for as long as your membership is active. Sensitive Data Retention: Sensitive data, such as passport copies, are retained only for the absolute duration required to complete the specific travel booking, visa application, or event registration process. Once the specific event concludes, these documents can be securely and permanently deleted if the user ask to remove them.
YOUR RIGHTS Under UAE law, you have the right to access, correct, or request the erasure of your personal data. You may withdraw your consent for the processing of sensitive data at any time (noting that this may impact our ability to arrange travel logistics).
CONTACT US For any questions, concerns, or requests regarding your personal data, please contact our Data Protection Officer at: info @ middleeastchamberofbuyers.com.
CHANGES TO THIS POLICY We may update this privacy policy to reflect operational or regulatory changes.
Last updated: 11-07-2026