Latest news with #AbuDhabiDepartmentofEconomicDevelopment
Mid East Info
2 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development's Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program facilitates 650+ deals worth AED672m in 2024
As part of the Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development has witnessed a significant growth in the number of deals forged between SMEs and leading public and private institutions, achieving a total of 652 deals by 2024, with a total value of AED 672 million, across various key sectors such as IT, consultancy, advertising and event management. The initiative was launched in 2023 by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development to increase the share of procurement opportunities allocated to SMEs by major private companies as well as government entities and institutions. As a result, the number of registered companies grew from 835 in 2023 to 2,235 in 2024, with the strategic partner count increasing to 20. Since its inception, the programme has been focused on supporting and encouraging SMEs to participate in supply chain opportunities, by providing them with a robust platform for business development. The initiative has created new pathways for these companies to play an active role in private sector projects, thus enhancing their contribution to GDP growth, diversifying economic resources and fostering innovation within Abu Dhabi, in line with the UAE's vision for a more sustainable and diverse economy. The programme features awareness initiatives to educate SMEs on the benefits of forging strategic alliances with both government and private sector entities. It also supports efforts to classify companies, develop their skills and strengthen collaboration and partnership pathways through relevant projects. Micro-enterprises now represent over half of the registered companies, with approximately 20 per cent of them being eligible for deals with leading institutions across both public and private sectors. H.E. Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'The Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program acts as a bridge connecting SMEs in Abu Dhabi with leading institutions and government entities. This helps enhance the productivity and innovation within this vital business category, which is a cornerstone of the national economy. SMEs further play a pivotal role in catalysing Abu Dhabi's sustainable growth, aligning with the UAE's broader vision for economic development. 'Led by Khalifa Fund's ongoing efforts to promote entrepreneurship, the programme has garnered significant attention from Emirati entrepreneurs over the past two years, by paving the way for collaborations with leading institutions. The programme has conducted 13 bi-monthly training sessions to date, in collaboration with at least nine partners, focusing on skill development for SMEs to meet market demands. This is a remarkable milestone in building a sustainable and innovation-based economy, in line with the UAE's aspirations to become a leading knowledge-based and competitive economy.' The programme's key participants include the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi, Department of Finance, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Family Development Foundation, Early Childhood Authority, AD Ports Group, Miral Group, E&, Aldar Properties, Etihad Airways, EMSTEEL Group, Emirates Development Bank, Agthia Group, ADGM, Mubadala, Masdar City, Industrial Capital Group (ICG), and United Copper Rods LLC (UCR), among others.
Web Release
3 days ago
- Business
- Web Release
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development's Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program facilitates 650+ deals worth AED672m in 2024
As part of the Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development has witnessed a significant growth in the number of deals forged between SMEs and leading public and private institutions, achieving a total of 652 deals by 2024, with a total value of AED 672 million, across various key sectors such as IT, consultancy, advertising and event management. The initiative was launched in 2023 by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development to increase the share of procurement opportunities allocated to SMEs by major private companies as well as government entities and institutions. As a result, the number of registered companies grew from 835 in 2023 to 2,235 in 2024, with the strategic partner count increasing to 20. Since its inception, the programme has been focused on supporting and encouraging SMEs to participate in supply chain opportunities, by providing them with a robust platform for business development. The initiative has created new pathways for these companies to play an active role in private sector projects, thus enhancing their contribution to GDP growth, diversifying economic resources and fostering innovation within Abu Dhabi, in line with the UAE's vision for a more sustainable and diverse economy. The programme features awareness initiatives to educate SMEs on the benefits of forging strategic alliances with both government and private sector entities. It also supports efforts to classify companies, develop their skills and strengthen collaboration and partnership pathways through relevant projects. Micro-enterprises now represent over half of the registered companies, with approximately 20 per cent of them being eligible for deals with leading institutions across both public and private sectors. H.E. Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'The Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program acts as a bridge connecting SMEs in Abu Dhabi with leading institutions and government entities. This helps enhance the productivity and innovation within this vital business category, which is a cornerstone of the national economy. SMEs further play a pivotal role in catalysing Abu Dhabi's sustainable growth, aligning with the UAE's broader vision for economic development. 'Led by Khalifa Fund's ongoing efforts to promote entrepreneurship, the programme has garnered significant attention from Emirati entrepreneurs over the past two years, by paving the way for collaborations with leading institutions. The programme has conducted 13 bi-monthly training sessions to date, in collaboration with at least nine partners, focusing on skill development for SMEs to meet market demands. This is a remarkable milestone in building a sustainable and innovation-based economy, in line with the UAE's aspirations to become a leading knowledge-based and competitive economy.' The programme's key participants include the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi, Department of Finance, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Family Development Foundation, Early Childhood Authority, AD Ports Group, Miral Group, E&, Aldar Properties, Etihad Airways, EMSTEEL Group, Emirates Development Bank, Agthia Group, ADGM, Mubadala, Masdar City, Industrial Capital Group (ICG), and United Copper Rods LLC (UCR), among others. For any inquiries or further information, please contact: [email protected]
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi SME Champions Programme facilitates 650+ deals worth Dh672m in 2024
2 July 2025 10:24 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)As part of the Abu Dhabi SME Champions Programme, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development has witnessed a significant growth in the number of deals forged between SMEs and leading public and private institutions, achieving more than 650 deals by deals totalled Dh672 million in value across various key sectors such as IT, consultancy, advertising and event initiative was launched in 2023 by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development to increase the share of procurement opportunities allocated to SMEs by major private companies, as well as by government entities and a result, the number of registered companies grew from 835 in 2023 to 2,235 in 2024, with the strategic partner count increasing to its inception, the programme has been focused on supporting and encouraging SMEs to participate in supply chain opportunities, by providing them with a robust platform for business development. The initiative has created new pathways for these companies to play an active role in private sector projects, thus enhancing their contribution to GDP growth, diversifying economic resources, and fostering innovation within Abu Dhabi, in line with the UAE's vision for a more sustainable and diverse programme features awareness initiatives to educate SMEs on the benefits of forging strategic alliances with both government and private sector entities. It also supports efforts to classify companies, develop their skills, and strengthen collaboration and partnership pathways through relevant now represent over half of the registered companies, with approximately 20 per cent of them being eligible for deals with leading institutions across both public and private Al Nasri, Acting CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'The Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program acts as a bridge connecting SMEs in Abu Dhabi with leading institutions and government entities. This helps enhance the productivity and innovation within this vital business category, which is a cornerstone of the national economy. SMEs further play a pivotal role in catalysing Abu Dhabi's sustainable growth, aligning with the UAE's broader vision for economic development.'Led by Khalifa Fund's ongoing efforts to promote entrepreneurship, the programme has garnered significant attention from Emirati entrepreneurs over the past two years, by paving the way for collaborations with leading institutions. The programme has conducted 13 bi-monthly training sessions to date, in collaboration with at least nine partners, focusing on skill development for SMEs to meet market demands. This is a remarkable milestone in building a sustainable and innovation-based economy, in line with the UAE's aspirations to become a leading knowledge-based and competitive economy." The programme's key participants include the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, Department of Finance, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Family Development Foundation, Early Childhood Authority, Abu Dhabi Projects and infrastructure, Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi, Ministry of industry and Advanced Technology, Etihad Airways, EMSTEEL Group, Aldar Properties, E&, Industrial Capital Group (ICG), AD Ports Group, Miral Group, Emirates Development Bank, Agthia Group, ADGM, Mubadala, Masdar City, Aldhahra, MODON and Siemens, among others. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Time Business News
25-06-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Business Setup in Abu-Dhabi - Basic to Advanced Guide
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), offers a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs, investors, and multinational companies to set up their business. With its strong infrastructure, stable economy, and investor-friendly policies, Abu Dhabi is an ideal destination for business setup in the Middle East. provides everything you need to know about business setup in Abu Dhabi, including types of business structures, legal requirements, cost breakdown, and steps involved. Why Choose Abu Dhabi for Business Setup? 100% Foreign Ownership – Available in most sectors under the new UAE Commercial Companies Law. Tax Advantages – No personal income tax, and corporate tax exemptions for certain sectors and free zones. Strategic Location – Access to the GCC, Africa, Europe, and Asia markets. Political & Economic Stability – Safe, secure, and well-regulated business environment. Government Support – Initiatives like TAMM, ADDED, and Hub71 foster innovation and streamline registration processes. Business Structures Available in Abu Dhabi You can choose from several legal forms depending on your business activity and ownership preferences: 1. Mainland Company Can operate across the UAE and globally. 100% foreign ownership allowed (in most sectors). Registered with Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). 2. Free Zone Company Ideal for export/import businesses and tech startups. 100% ownership with customs benefits. Operate within a specific free zone. Popular Free Zones: Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD) Masdar City Free Zone Twofour54 (media sector) 3. Offshore Company No physical presence required in UAE. Primarily for holding companies, international trading, and asset protection. Step-by-Step Guide to Setting up a Business in Abu Dhabi Step 1: Choose the Business Activity Select from over 2,000 permitted activities listed by ADDED. This determines the license type: Commercial, Industrial, or Professional. Step 2: Select Legal Structure Sole Proprietorship Limited Liability Company (LLC) Civil Company Branch Office Free Zone Company Step 3: Register Trade Name Choose a unique business name via the TAMM portal . . Comply with UAE naming guidelines. Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval From ADDED (mainland) or relevant Free Zone Authority. Step 5: Prepare Legal Documents Memorandum of Association (MoA) Lease agreement (Ejari or Tawtheeq) Shareholder agreements (if needed) Step 6: Get Office Space Required for all licenses. Choose flexi-desk, co-working, or physical office. Step 7: Obtain Business License Pay the fees and receive the trade license. Valid for 1 year, renewable. Step 8: Visa & Bank Account Apply for investor and employee visas. Open a UAE corporate bank account. Cost of Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Costs vary depending on the business type, location (mainland vs. free zone), and office requirements: Item Approximate Cost (AED) Trade Name Registration 750 – 1,000 Initial Approval 1,000 – 2,000 License Fee 10,000 – 25,000 Office Rent 5,000 – 20,000+ Visa (Investor/Partner) 3,500 – 6,000 Total Estimated Setup Cost 20,000 – 50,000+ Note: Free zones may offer packages starting from AED 12,000 Starting a Business in Free Zone Fujairah Abu Dhabi is a strategic decision that offers long-term benefits. With full foreign ownership rights, tax-friendly laws, and world-class infrastructure, the emirate is one of the most attractive investment hubs in the region TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Mid East Info
18-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Future Cities Take Shape: ADIS 2025 Day 1 Highlights Transformative Infrastructure Vision
The inaugural Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) 2025 opened its doors today, setting a powerful agenda for reimagining urban development under the theme 'Future Cities: Rethinking Infrastructure for Better Lifestyles.' Welcoming over 2,500 attendees on its first day, the summit featured an impressive lineup of more than 70 global speakers, 30+ exhibitors, and a diverse, influential audience of decision-makers, investors, industry leaders, and innovators. Day 1 was marked by a series of strategic announcements and insightful discussions that reinforced Abu Dhabi's bold and forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development. The summit is supported by a distinguished coalition of partners reflecting a shared commitment to driving integrated, people-first infrastructure solutions that support the UAE's sustainability and innovation priorities. These include Headline Partner Modon; Real Estate Partner Aldar; Strategic Partners Bloom, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Etihad Rail; Government Partner Abu Dhabi Police' Platinum Partner Lead Development; Diamond Partner Etihad Airways; and Silver Partners Plenary and National Bank of Fujairah. The day's proceedings commenced with a clear articulation of Abu Dhabi's ambitious future. H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman, Department of Municipalities and Transport, Abu Dhabi, delivered a compelling Opening Keynote Address, asserting the emirate's proactive role in shaping the future. He emphasised the inseparable link between growth and liveability, and Abu Dhabi's drive to lead globally in both economic competitiveness and quality of life through world-class infrastructure. Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Holistic Urban Progress: In his participation at the fireside chat titled 'Developing the World's Most Liveable City: Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Holistic Urban Progress', H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, joined H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, to discuss the intersection of infrastructure, investment, and livability. During the session, H.E. Al Shorafa unveiled two major initiatives: the Liveability and Investment Exhibition (LIVEX), aimed at attracting global partnerships. Reflecting on the broader vision, he noted that Abu Dhabi is not just striving to be livable, but 'lovable'—a place where residents feel truly at home, supported by world-class infrastructure and inspired by a shared sense of belonging and ambition shaped by visionary leadership. H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) highlighted how strategic infrastructure development is cementing Abu Dhabi's economic growth and diversification, with the construction sector growing by over 40% in the past five years and its contribution to GDP rising from AED 76.7 bn (7.8% of total GDP) in 2020 to AED 107.4bn (9.1% of GDP) in 2024. H.E. emphasised that infrastructure in Abu Dhabi goes beyond physical assets to reflect its status as a world-leading smart city, offering advanced digital infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and world-class healthcare, education, and housing that together enhance both quality of life and investor readiness. Building on this strategic foundation, H.E. Eng. Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid, Director General, Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC), reinforced during his Opening Address the infrastructure's role as a powerful tool for societal transformation and unveiled the pivotal ADPIC Five-Year Strategic Roadmap. This comprehensive blueprint outlines key objectives including climate action, increased private sector participation, local content sourcing, and the expansion of modular construction, all geared towards a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive Abu Dhabi. Forging the Vision for Liveable Cities: The summit immediately plunged into Abu Dhabi's strategic vision for urban development. High-level dialogues explored how the emirate's visionary infrastructure strategy, backed by over AED 200 billion in committed projects, underpins its status as the Middle East and North Africa's most liveable city. Discussions highlighted a commitment that goes beyond mere construction, focusing on redefining lifestyle-driven urban development by merging cultural heritage with cutting-edge innovation. Abu Dhabi: The Capital of Lifestyle Development In a powerful conversation, senior leaders from across Abu Dhabi's urban, investment, and development sectors came together to explore how the Emirate is redefining lifestyle-led urban growth. H.E. Dr. Saif Sultan Al Nasri (DMT) highlighted the role of smart infrastructure and integrated planning in enhancing mobility, liveability, and community cohesion. H.E. Badr Al Olama (ADIO) emphasised the importance of strategic investment partnerships that enable innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification. Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, reinforced the role of destination-led development in shaping Abu Dhabi as a global lifestyle capital, where tourism, entertainment, and placemaking intersect to deliver economic and social value. He stressed that lifestyle is no longer just about real estate or retail, it's about creating emotional, meaningful, and memorable experiences for both residents and visitors, aligned with Abu Dhabi's long-term vision. Adel Albreiki, CEO of Aldar Projects, spoke to the consultation and collaboration that exists between the public and private sectors in the delivery of large-scale, mixed-use and people-centric developments in Abu Dhabi and how these projects support population growth while preserving cultural identity and environmental priorities. Pioneering Innovation and Future Technologies: A significant portion of the day spotlighted groundbreaking innovations and technologies poised to redefine infrastructure. Sessions explored the transformative potential of advanced construction methods, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Building Information Modelling (BIM) in rapidly scaling affordable housing, reimagining urban ecosystems, and enhancing project planning and management. Insights from global practices, including a presentation on Hong Kong's advanced construction methods, provided valuable perspectives on digital transformation and modular approaches. The emphasis was clear: technology is not just an enabler, but a core component of future-proof urban development. Cultivating Partnerships and Economic Resilience: The summit also underscored the crucial role of collaboration and robust economic frameworks in achieving these ambitious goals. Discussions on global infrastructure partnerships examined how Abu Dhabi's strategic alignment of regional priorities and international best practices fosters inclusive growth and addresses complex urban challenges. The importance of integrated logistics infrastructure was also a key focus, showcasing Abu Dhabi's drive to become a leading logistics and distribution hub through multimodal transport solutions and advanced cargo capabilities. Furthermore, sessions addressed the legal and economic underpinnings of large-scale projects, detailing how advancements in capital contracts are designed to minimise disputes and enhance project delivery efficiency. The day concluded with a focus on empowering local economies, with discussions highlighting the impact of national programmes in strengthening local procurement and resilience. The day concluded with a Panel on 'Empowering Local Economies: ICV and SME Agility in Infrastructure introducing H.E. Adel Al Nuaimi, Executive Director – Capital Projects Contractual Affairs Sector, Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC); Moustafa Fahour, COO, Plenary Middle East; and Ahmed Al Zaabi, Executive Director of Delivery at Modon. The panel discussed the national In-Country Value (ICV) Program and the Abu Dhabi SME Champion Programme, emphasising their role in empowering local procurement, talent, and manufacturing capabilities, and diversifying supply chains. Building the Future, Together: Adding further depth to ADIS are the key Collaboration Partners from across the globe, each contributing specialised expertise to advance the summit's vision for livable, sustainable, and resilient cities. A diverse range of organisations, including the International Project Finance Association (IPFA), Mexican Business Council/CEMEX, Turkish Contractors Association, International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA), International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), Emirates Green Building Council (EBC), and International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI), highlight ADIS as a global platform for innovation-led infrastructure development. Day 1 of ADIS 2025 successfully ignited critical dialogue and showcased Abu Dhabi's progressive vision for urban development. The comprehensive discussions, spanning strategic planning, technological innovation, and economic empowerment, underscored the emirate's unwavering commitment to building a future that is not only economically robust but also deeply human-centric and sustainable. As global leaders and innovators depart from this inaugural day, the momentum for collaborative action and transformative infrastructure development in Abu Dhabi is stronger than ever. The summit will continue tomorrow, 18 June 2025, with further exploration of the critical aspects of future-ready infrastructure.
