Small Businesses Flocking to Dubai for Growth

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have a massive opportunity to use the UAE to go global. As the UAE offers a conducive business environment with favourable policies, infrastructure, and a supportive government.
 
The UAE's SME sector is a vital contributor to its economy, employing a significant portion of the workforce and contributing substantially to the GDP. SMEs employ 86% of the workforce and contribute more than 60% to the country’s GDP.

The challenge for SMEs is to look and behave like global businesses and grow their footprint while connecting with international clients. International business is built on trust and it is difficult to build relationships if you don’t look like a legitimate organisation or if you’re not committed in the long term. Dubai SME found that over 50% of SMEs in Dubai are exporting their services. The global market is a huge opportunity.

There has never been a better time to operate as a small business in the UAE. With a major increase in government support and funding, businesses can use this as an incentive to grow big.

Non-oil exports reached $952.93 billion in 2023 for the first time in history, showing the UAE’s commitment to developing global trade partnerships and driving sustainable economic growth.

For the government, SMEs provide resilient trading, economic protection, and increased revenue. Alongside financial benefits for the country, SMEs also provide the capacity to support decarbonisation and sustainable production, essential for the planet.

SMEs must consider the benefits of this additional support, with Dubai alone launching a $138 million plan to help small businesses grow globally. SMEs contribute a substantial portion of the economy, employment, and product, meaning they are vital in diversifying the nation’s economy away from traditional oil reliance.

With all these advantage points to succeed, keeping up appearances as a global brand is the key to success on the world stage. Maintaining the look, behaviour and actions of a global business reassures customers and partners going forward.