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Mid East Info
a day ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Emirates Franchise Strengthens Japan Ties Through Expo 2025 Osaka Mission - Middle East Business News and Information
Mission promotes global expansion of Emirati brands and strengthens international franchise partnerships. Abu Dhabi:July 2025 – The Emirates Franchise, an affiliate of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, led a high-level trade mission to Japan from June 18 to 23, 2025, coinciding with Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan. The mission aimed to highlight the advanced UAE model in the franchising sector, reflecting the development of the business environment in the UAE and its regional leadership in this field. The delegation was headed by Her Excellency Noor Al Tamimi, Chairman Emirates Franchise – Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber and included senior representatives from across the UAE's business ecosystem. Among them were Dr. Ahmed Al Shemili, Acting General Manager of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ms. Hamda Al Suwaidi, Technical Director of the Association, and Ms. Ahood Salah Almenhali, Events Coordinator. During visits to Tokyo and Osaka, the delegation met with the Japanese Franchise (JFA) engaged with economic institutions and companies interested in entering the UAE market. Discussions focused on fostering collaboration, showcasing the UAE's growing franchising opportunities, and outlining the Association's strategic plans to attract global brands and supporting the international expansion of local franchises. H.E. Noor Al Tamimi affirmed that this mission marks a key milestone in strengthening the global presence of Emirati franchising and reinforcing the UAE's position as a hub for innovative business models. 'She pointed out that the participation is a part of the Association's efforts to empower national brands, open new channels for international cooperation, and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices in line with the UAE's goals for international expansion. She added, 'Our engagements with public and private stakeholders in Japan emphasised the Association's role as a key enabler of franchise sector growth. These efforts contribute to building meaningful partnerships that transcend borders and highlight the UAE's appeal as a destination for high-value international brands.' On the sidelines of the visit, H.E. Al Tamimi explored with Mr. Yoshiteru Obinata, Executive Director of JFA, collaboration opportunities and knowledge exchange between the two sides. The discussion covered JFA's structure, which includes over 470 franchisors and 1,286 brands, and its role in advancing the sector through education, training, and sector development. The UAE delegation outlined its strategy to strengthen the global footprint of Emirati franchises and deepen cooperation with global partners. At the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, an introductory tour was held for both UAE and Japanese delegations, highlighting national achievements in innovation across sectors such as space, healthcare, and sustainability. The Emirates Franchise delegation, along with representatives from the Japan Franchise (JFA), toured the UAE pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, highlighting the UAE's efforts in innovation, with a focus on the space, healthcare, and sustainability sectors. During the visit, H.E. Al Tamimi presented the Association's vision to empower local brands and attract leading international franchises, enhancing the UAE's presence on the international franchise map. H.E. Dr. Al Shemili commended the Association for its leadership in organising the mission, while Ms. Sheikha Al Ketbi, Deputy Commissioner-General of the UAE Pavilion, praised the delegation's proactive engagement with Japanese and global stakeholders. The tour included visits to pavilions of other participating countries, where global experiences were explored and knowledge was exchanged on best practices in the franchising sector and sustainable development, reinforcing the Association's international visibility and ongoing efforts to promote Emirati brands on the global stage. The delegation also met with numerous Japanese companies interested in entering the UAE market. Mr. Sho Hideteki, from Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), expressed full support for facilitating market entry through collaboration with the Association and the Abu Dhabi Chamber. As part of the programme, the delegation participated in the 'Prosperous Franchising: From the UAE to Osaka and Beyond' session held at the UAE Pavilion, attended by JETRO officials and Japanese business representatives. The session highlighted the UAE's supportive business environment and franchising opportunities, creating pathways for future partnerships within the Japanese market and beyond. The delegation's visit resulted in tangible outcomes including strengthened cooperation with Japanese franchising institutions, the activation of a partnership agreement between the Abu Dhabi Chamber and JETRO, and the establishment of direct communication channels to facilitate the entry of Japanese companies into the UAE market.
Al Etihad
11-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Inaugural World Franchise Day celebrates sector's growing potential
11 June 2025 22:08 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)The pivotal role of the franchise sector in supporting the national economy and empowering entrepreneurs came to the fore during a forum held in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to mark the inaugural World Franchise Day, to be marked annually on June 11. Titled "Franchise Unites Us and Innovation Leads Us", the forum was organised by the Emirates Franchise Association, affiliated with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen event, held at the Abu Dhabi Chamber's headquarters, brought together entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and representatives from government and private sector entities involved in or interested in the franchise her opening remarks, Noor Al Tamimi, Chairwoman of the Emirates Franchise Association, reaffirmed the franchise sector's role within the UAE's economic ecosystem, especially considering national efforts to diversify sources of income and promote an entrepreneurial culture. She emphasised that franchising today is a practical tool for business growth, enabling entrepreneurs to operate within an integrated operational system, allowing them to benefit from knowledge, training, and institutional Tamimi said: "The Emirates Franchise Association continues to implement its national strategy aimed at enabling Emirati brands to expand locally and globally. The relaunch of the Association's corporate identity has been a significant turning point in its journey, especially after it received official recognition from the World Franchise Council, which made it the accredited representative of the UAE at this international forum."The franchise sector is witnessing rapid growth both locally and internationally. In the UAE, revenues have exceeded Dh100 billion annually, with an annual growth rate of 15%, while global revenues surpassed Dh6 trillion, according to the Abu Dhabi the MENA region, the total market value is estimated at over Dh120 billion. Globally, the sector encompasses more than two million franchisees, providing jobs for more than 19 million people, reflecting its vital role in supporting economies and promoting entrepreneurship, it a recorded speech presented during the forum, Simon Bartholomew, Secretary General of the World Franchise Council, stressed that World Franchise Day celebrates the global franchise community in recognition of its contributions to the international economic landscape and raises awareness of the franchise sector's role in shaping modern economies. UAE a Global Franchising Hub Speaking to Aletihad, Al Tamimi stressed the UAE's growing influence as a global franchising hub."The UAE naturally is the most suitable host for this, because of the ease of doing business, the support our leadership provides, and the national focus on diversifying beyond the oil sector. Today, we have surpassed $30 billion as a market size for franchising - and there is still room for further expansion."Explaining the vision behind the Emirates Franchise Association, she noted that their main goal is to enhance the franchising ecosystem in the UAE and make it a global powerhouse for further highlighted the enabling environment already in place, pointing to Abu Dhabi's position as a global centre for franchising and innovation."Abu Dhabi today is a franchise-friendly environment. Take Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, for example - it supports SMEs with funding specifically to help them scale through franchising. If you apply and meet the criteria, you can receive a grant to prepare your brand and business for the franchise model. And that is just one of many initiatives both the Khalifa Fund and Emirates Franchise Association provide to support growth." 'A Golden Platform' Mona Saqr Al Matrooshi, Board Member of the Ajman Businesswomen Council and Director General of the Ajman Society of Social & Cultural Development, told Aletihad that events like International Franchise Day offer real value for aspiring entrepreneurs."Many people do not have enough background in franchising," she said."This event is a true investment opportunity - where they can meet franchise owners, exchange ideas, and grow their businesses. It is a golden platform for those who know how to seize opportunities.""With the UAE's open economy, every citizen or resident should have their own project. What matters is knowing when and how to seize opportunities."Entrepreneur Mohammed Al Nuaimi said "franchising is a shortcut" for those who want to start a business without sufficient experience."The brand provides you with the readiness-from the basic structure to the complete business manual. The entrepreneur only needs to study the brand's suitability for the local market, whether in the UAE or the Gulf Region, and then start operating in record time. However, if they want to establish a project from scratch, they need to conduct a feasibility study, analyse the market, and identify the target group. They can then choose the appropriate sales model." 'Gaining Financial Freedom' Also speaking to Aletihad, Ebraheem Al Samadi, founder and CEO of Forever Rose, highlighted the potential of franchising in shaping the UAE's business future."Franchises offer people the opportunity to gain financial freedom, take responsibility for their careers, and run their own businesses. It is a ready-made platform. I see this as a launchpad for more billionaires and millionaires in the future.""From cafés to restaurants, franchising is everywhere. It plays a vital role in driving economic growth, and the UAE has the potential to be a franchise hub for the entire Middle East. Anyone seeking a franchise in the region will look to the UAE as their go-to destination," Al Samadi Al Saigal, Founder and Partner of Rolling Wheels Entertainment, told Aletihad that franchising is a smart path for rapid, efficient expansion."My advice to anyone with a project they believe in is to adopt the franchise model. It saves time, effort, and money. Instead of spending 7 million on 7 branches, I invest 1 million in one location while others expand the brand under the same system. As the founder, I benefit from franchise fees-both upfront and monthly."However, she urged patience and preparation. "Do not rush into franchising. You need at least two to three years of stable operations, with fully documented processes, before expanding. Let your business mature first - then grow with confidence." Meeting of Minds The forum included a dialogue session called "Meeting of Minds," bringing together leading franchise owners in the UAE, along with specialised consultants and industry experts. They discussed key opportunities and challenges related to expanding local franchises, along with the legal, operational, and financial support mechanisms needed to enhance their competitiveness and sustainable program also featured an interactive visual presentation highlighting the Association's achievements and showcasing successful Emirati brands that have expanded locally and internationally through franchising. The event also included several accompanying activities, most notably the "Franchise Walk," which showcased a selection of local and international brands. In addition, the Association organised advisory sessions in collaboration with several consultancy firms, offering specialised professional guidance on the legal, regulatory, and operational aspects of the franchise model.
Arabian Business
11-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE franchise sector generates $27.2bn revenue a year
The UAE's franchise industry has become a significant contributor to the national economy, with annual revenues exceeding AED100bn ($27.2bn) and an annual growth rate of 15 per cent. Regionally, the MENA market is valued at more than AED120bn ($32.7bn), while globally the sector generates more than AED6tn ($1.63tn) and supports over 19m jobs through 2m franchisees. In celebration of World Franchise Day on June 11, the Emirates Franchise Association, affiliated with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, hosted a high-profile forum under the theme 'Franchise Unites Us and Innovation Leads Us.' UAE franchises pass $27.2bn in revenue The event, held at the Chamber's headquarters, brought together a group of entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and public-private sector representatives with a shared interest in the rapidly growing franchise sector. Organised in collaboration with the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, the forum focused on strategies to expand UAE-based franchise brands both locally and globally. This economic footprint underscores franchising's role in empowering entrepreneurs, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable business ecosystems. Noor Al Tamimi, Chairwoman of the Emirates Franchise Association, said that celebrating World Franchise Day reinforces the franchise sector's status within the UAE's economic ecosystem, especially considering national efforts to diversify sources of income and promote an entrepreneurial culture. She emphasised that franchising today is a practical tool for business growth, enabling entrepreneurs to operate within an integrated operational system, allowing them to benefit from knowledge, training, and institutional support. Al Tamimi said: 'The Emirates Franchise Association continues to implement its national strategy aimed at enabling Emirati brands to expand locally and globally. The relaunch of the Association's corporate identity has been a significant turning point in its journey, especially after it received official recognition from the World Franchise Council, which made it the accredited representative of the UAE at this international forum.' She confirmed that the Association hopes to be a strategic partner in building an integrated franchise ecosystem in the UAE, one that is based on supportive legislation, accessible financing, specialised training, and international representation. The forum featured a key dialogue session titled 'Meeting of Minds', where franchise owners, consultants, and experts discussed opportunities and challenges in growing local franchises. Topics included legal frameworks, operational readiness, and financial support mechanisms critical to achieving competitive and sustainable expansion. A presentation showcased successful Emirati brands that have scaled through franchising, and celebrated the Association's ongoing efforts to build a future-ready franchise landscape based on innovation and efficiency. Among the highlights of the event was the 'Franchise Walk,' a showcase of select local and international brands, providing attendees with direct insights into diverse business models. Meanwhile, advisory sessions were held in collaboration with professional consultancy firms, offering hands-on guidance regarding the legal, regulatory, and operational aspects of franchising.
Al Etihad
11-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Emirates Franchise Association organises ‘Franchise Unites Us and Innovation Leads Us' forum
11 June 2025 19:42 ABU DHABI (WAM)The Emirates Franchise Association, affiliated with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, organised the "Franchise Unites Us and Innovation Leads Us" forum at the Chamber's headquarters in celebration of World Franchise Day, observed on 11th event was held in collaboration with the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, and featured a select group of entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and representatives from government and private sector entities involved in or interested in the franchise franchise sector is witnessing rapid growth both locally and internationally. In the UAE, revenues have exceeded AED100 billion annually, with an annual growth rate of 15%, while global revenues surpassed AED6 trillion. In the MENA region, the total market value is estimated at over AED120 the sector encompasses more than two million franchisees, providing jobs for more than 19 million people, reflecting its vital role in supporting economies and promoting forum is part of the Association's ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the importance of the franchise sector and its pivotal role in supporting the national economy and empowering entrepreneurs. Franchising is considered one of the most successful and sustainable models for the growth of SMEs as well as expanding the reach of local and regional forum was attended by Noor Al Tamimi, Chairwoman of the Emirates Franchise Association; Maher Taresh Al Alili, Vice Chairman of the Association; Sultan Al Hindasi, Member of the Association's Board of Directors; members of the Executive Committee; working groups; and several representatives from the UAE's chambers of her opening remarks, Noor Al Tamimi, Chairwoman of the Emirates Franchise Association, said that celebrating World Franchise Day reinforces the franchise sector's status within the UAE's economic ecosystem, especially considering national efforts to diversify sources of income and promote an entrepreneurial emphasised that franchising today is a practical tool for business growth, enabling entrepreneurs to operate within an integrated operational system, allowing them to benefit from knowledge, training, and institutional Tamimi said, "The Emirates Franchise Association continues to implement its national strategy aimed at enabling Emirati brands to expand locally and globally. The relaunch of the Association's corporate identity has been a significant turning point in its journey, especially after it received official recognition from the World Franchise Council, which made it the accredited representative of the UAE at this international forum.'She confirmed that the Association hopes to be a strategic partner in building an integrated franchise ecosystem in the UAE, one that is based on supportive legislation, accessible financing, specialised training, and international emphasised the Association's commitment to working with its partners at the Abu Dhabi Chamber, the Khalifa Fund, the Business Women Council, and all relevant national entities to expand the impact of franchising to reach every ambitious entrepreneur in the a recorded speech presented during the forum Simon Bartholomew, Secretary General of the World Franchise Council, stressed that World Franchise Day celebrates the global franchise community in recognition of its contributions to the international economic landscape, and raises awareness of the franchise sector's role in shaping modern encouraged all franchise associations around the world, as well as franchisors, franchisees, suppliers, and partners, to participate in World Franchise Day events to highlight the resilience that franchising offers entrepreneurs and its support for a sustainable economic future, encouraging more entrepreneurs to adopt this promising business forum included a dialogue session called, "Meeting of Minds," bringing together leading franchise owners in the UAE, along with specialised consultants and industry discussed key opportunities and challenges related to expanding local franchises along with the legal, operational, and financial support mechanisms needed to enhance their competitiveness and sustainable programme also featured an interactive visual presentation highlighting the Association's achievements and showcasing successful Emirati brands that have expanded locally and internationally through focused on the Association's efforts to support the development of an integrated franchise system in the UAE based on innovation, efficiency, and sustainable event also included several accompanying activities, most notably the "Franchise Walk," which showcased a selection of local and international brands. In addition, the Association organised advisory sessions in collaboration with several consultancy firms, offering specialised professional guidance on the legal, regulatory, and operational aspects of the franchise model. At the conclusion of the event, the Association reaffirmed its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening the supportive environment for franchising in the country. It called on start-ups and local brands to take advantage of the benefits of Association membership, which include guidance, training, institutional representation, and access to new markets through local and international partnerships.
Zawya
23-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Emirates Franchise convenes second meeting of 2025 to advance sector development
Abu Dhabi – The Emirates Franchise held its second meeting for 2025, chaired by Her Excellency Noor Al Tamimi, Chairperson of Emirates Franchise and Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with representatives from other emirates in attendance. The discussion covered the Franchise's operational plan, finalising bylaws, and setting strategic priorities to enhance its impact on the national economy. Board members, along with the Executive Committee and working groups from each emirate, reviewed progress on the organisation's agenda and highlighted key outcomes from recent discussions. These included identifying challenges within the sector, proposing solutions, and offering actionable recommendations to align UAE franchising with global standards. Emphasis was placed on driving innovation, boosting competitiveness, and creating a platform for collaboration among entrepreneurs, franchisees, and stakeholders to promote sustainable growth. Her Excellency Al Tamimi reaffirmed the Franchise's commitment to empowering the sector as a catalyst for economic diversification and entrepreneurship. 'The UAE spares no effort in providing enablers to achieve its economic vision. Our organisation will play a key role in advancing the franchise sector by implementing ambitious initiatives, including a flexible business framework that supports continued growth and prosperity,' she said. She also highlighted the importance of protecting intellectual property, raising awareness of franchising rights, and expanding the presence of Emirati brands locally and globally. She also stressed the importance of embracing innovative ideas, fostering a forward-thinking and ambitious business environment, expanding partnerships, and promoting franchising as a tool to strengthen the presence and engagement of entrepreneurs, while providing them with investment opportunities and meeting their needs to help them achieve their goals. Her Excellency Noor Al Tamimi emphasized that one of the main objectives of the franchise sector in the current period is to enhance its operational structure. The goal is to position the UAE as the ideal business environment for supporting and fostering the international growth of local franchises while also attracting global franchises to the UAE's business landscape, further reinforcing its status as a leading global destination for the franchising sector.
