Posts

How the Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program is Redefining Business Growth in the UAE?

Image
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are at the heart of economic transformation, and in Abu Dhabi, they’re getting the boost they need to thrive.  The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) launched the SME Champions Program with a clear vision: to make SMEs a cornerstone of the UAE’s long-term, diversified economy and to boost business setup in Abu Dhabi .  Since its launch, the program has already facilitated $183 million worth of procurement deals, connecting SMEs to new opportunities that would otherwise take years to achieve. From local startups breaking into major supply chains to established SMEs scaling their services, the initiative is proving to be a real catalyst for growth.    - Tackling the Challenges SMEs Face   Like many global markets, SMEs in Abu Dhabi have traditionally struggled with limited access to finance, difficulty competing with large suppliers, and low visibility among potential clients. The SME Champi...

Investing in Dubai Real Estate: A Foreign Investor's Guide to Long-Term Success

 Dubai continues to shine as a top-tier investment destination, not just for entrepreneurs pursuing business setup in the UAE , but also for foreign nationals seeking high-yield property opportunities.    With zero property, income, or capital gains tax, and average rental yields ranging from 4.87% to over 10%, Dubai stands out among global real estate markets.  In 2024 alone, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) recorded nearly 181,000 property transactions valued at AED 522.5 billion (US$142.2 billion). Foreign investors accounted for 60% of that value, driven by favorable ownership laws, flexible financing options, and a clear path to residency.  So, how can international investors capitalize on Dubai’s booming property sector? Let’s break it down.  - Understanding Ownership Options in Dubai   Foreign nationals can buy property in designated freehold zones, enjoying full ownership of both land and structure. Areas such as Downtown Dubai,...

Dormant or Dissolved? Making the Right Call for Your UAE Company

 When it comes to business setup in the UAE , the initial excitement often overshadows what happens later, when circumstances change, markets shift, and strategic priorities evolve. Many business owners eventually face a crucial question: should you keep your company dormant or close it completely?  Both options carry implications for compliance, costs, and future flexibility. The right choice depends on your business strategy, budget, and market outlook. Here, we break down the key differences, regulatory requirements, and practical considerations, so you can make an informed decision.  - The New Compliance Landscape in the UAE   The UAE’s federal Corporate Tax (CT) regime, effective from 1 June 2023, introduced a 9% tax on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000 (USD 102,090), with certain exemptions for small businesses and qualifying Free Zone entities.  From January 2025, large multinationals will also face a 15% Domestic Minimum Top-up ...

A New Chapter in GCC Investment: Saudi Arabia's Stock Market Now Open to Regional Residents

Image
  Saudi Arabia has taken a major step toward regional financial integration. From February 2025, the Kingdom’s stock market, Tadawul, is open not just to GCC citizens but also to residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.Oman.    This historic change, driven by the new Investment Law and updates from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) , marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic transformation.  - What Has Changed?   Previously, only GCC citizens could invest directly in Tadawul, while residents needed to navigate the Qualified Foreign Investor (QFI) program or use indirect investment channels. The new rules now allow:  Direct investment in listed and unlisted Saudi companies  Equal opportunities for individual and institutional investors living in GCC states  Elimination of swap agreements or QFI requirements (if funds are sourced within the GCC)...

Saudi Arabia's Amended Investment Fund Rules: What They Mean for Fund Managers and Investors

 Saudi Arabia’s financial sector has taken another decisive step towards global competitiveness with the Capital Market Authority (CMA) announcing wide-ranging amendments to its investment fund rules.    The changes, effective immediately from July 9, 2025, reshape how funds operate, expand investor access, and enhance market transparency.  For fund managers, investors, and firms exploring business setup in Saudi Arabia , these updates carry both opportunities and new compliance requirements. Here’s a detailed look at what’s changed, and why it matters.  1. Expanding Fund Distribution Channels   One of the most significant changes is the CMA’s green light for licensed electronic money institutions and digital fund distribution platforms to sell investment fund units online, including via mobile applications.  This is a milestone for the Kingdom’s fintech ecosystem, making it easier for retail investors to participate and for foreig...

Future of Tech: Business Setup in Saudi Arabia's Cloud Computing Special Economic Zone

Image
Saudi Arabia is accelerating its digital transformation and the Cloud Computing Special Economic Zone (Cloud SEZ) in Riyadh is proof of its forward-thinking vision.  Strategically located at the Innovation Tower in King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), this SEZ is designed to attract investment in cloud computing, AI, and data-centric industries.  As part of the National Strategy for Digital Transformation and the ICT Sector Strategy, the Cloud SEZ supports the Kingdom’s ambitious goal of attracting $13 billion in tech-related investments by 2030. For businesses looking to expand in MENA’s tech space, this SEZ offers a powerful launchpad.  - What Is the Cloud SEZ?   The Cloud SEZ is a dedicated zone created specifically for cloud computing and digital technology companies. It offers a highly optimized environment for the setup of data centers, cloud platforms, and AI operations, with regulatory and infrastructural advantages that su...

National Investment Strategy: A Pillar for Economic Transformation

Image
  Saudi Arabia’s National Investment Strategy (NIS) is a key pillar of Vision 2030 and a bold move to transform the Kingdom from an oil-reliant economy into a global investment hub. With its sights set on economic diversification, private sector empowerment, and foreign investment attraction, the NIS is redefining the business landscape in Saudi Arabia. - Vision 2030: Laying the Foundation Launched in 2016, Vision 2030 aims to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil revenues by strengthening non-oil sectors like tourism, technology, logistics, healthcare, and renewables. The NIS plays a foundational role in achieving this by creating a competitive, investment-friendly environment driven by regulatory reform, financial incentives, and sectoral development. - Key Sectors Driving the Strategy The NIS focuses on industries with high-growth potential and global appeal: · Renewable Energy: Projects in solar, wind, and hydrogen energy · Tourism & Entertainment: Developments like NEOM...