Empower your business growth with Gulf News' Invest UAE

Juma Al Kait, Assistant Undersecretary for Foreign Trade Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Economy, headlines Gulf News’ Invest UAE seminar, taking place tomorrow at V Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road. The current edition of the seminar, part of Gulf News' ongoing series, focuses on driving SME growth, investment, and entrepreneurship in the UAE.

Al Kait will present the keynote address, exploring the UAE’s economic diversification strategy and the steps being taken to reduce the nation’s reliance on oil.

"The UAE's National Investment Strategy 2031 has been designed to direct capital into emerging sectors that support our vision of a diversified, future-proof economy based on knowledge and innovation. Together with the UAE Ministry of Investment, we will continue to lead in pushing this vision forward by promoting long-term partnerships with governments, multinational corporations and the global investment community, and by continuously enhancing the business ecosystem to ensure the UAE remains a safe, trustworthy and growth-focused destination for investment," says Al Kait.

" The Invest UAE Summit provides an important platform for not only articulating this strategy but for connecting investors to the full range of opportunities present in our rapidly evolving market. They UAE is excited about the new partnerships that will be forged – and the projects and joint ventures they will inspire," he adds.

The seminar has a packed agenda of panels, keynotes, and fireside chats designed to address the challenges and opportunities businesses face in their launch and growth stages.

During an exclusive keynote speech at the Invest UAE seminar, Ismail Al Naqi, Director General of the Free Zones Authority of Ajman, will discuss how free zones, such as the Ajman Free Zone, are playing a critical role in attracting investment and supporting business growth in the UAE.

“The strategic importance of free zones is evident in their substantial contribution to the UAE’s non-oil GDP. They have played a pivotal role in diversifying the economy into sectors such as technology, finance, and logistics,” says Al Naqi.

“For global investors, the thriving activity within these zones is a clear indication of the UAE's commitment to fostering a dynamic and forward-looking business environment,” Al Naqi says.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from serial entrepreneur Jigar Sagar, who will share his insights on the importance of nurturing homegrown unicorns in the UAE. He will discuss how building a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem can help the country grow its global competitiveness and achieve sustainable economic progress.

“The UAE is witnessing substantial growth in sectors such as advanced technology, artificial intelligence, research and development, and the digital economy. Businesses can capitalise on these opportunities by aligning their strategies with the nation’s innovation-driven agenda, investing in cutting-edge technologies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement,” says Sagar, Founder of Triliv Holdings.

“Collaborating with local institutions and participating in government initiatives can further enhance their position in these burgeoning markets,” he says.

Commenting on the value of the Invest UAE seminar, Sagar says, “The Invest UAE seminar offers entrepreneurs a chance to gain in-depth knowledge of the UAE’s dynamic market landscape. Participants can connect with industry leaders, understand emerging trends, and access valuable resources to strengthen their business strategies moving forward.”

The seminar brings together experts from business incorporation, free zones, taxation, legal, and finance sectors to discuss key issues concerning businesses in the UAE.

Free zones fuel economic diversification

Invest UAE will feature a panel focused on free zones, covering their role in attracting investment and driving business growth.

Speakers from leading UAE free zones will discuss policies, initiatives, streamlined regulations, and infrastructure in these economic zones that support business growth and help start-ups and SMEs contribute to the country’s economic diversification.

Rashid Sahoo, Director of Operations at Sharjah Media City (SHAMS), will join other free zone leaders on stage to discuss the role of free zones in driving the UAE’s business-friendly ecosystem.

These zones offer key benefits like tax incentives, full foreign ownership, and streamlined licensing processes, all contributing to the UAE’s economic growth, job creation, and foreign direct investment (FDI).

Sahoo emphasises the significance of initiatives like the Invest UAE seminar, which provides a platform to showcase the UAE’s thriving business environment, investment opportunities, and economic strengths.

“Initiatives like the Invest UAE seminar highlight high-growth industries, attracting targeted investments while fostering collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and government stakeholders.”

Fatma Amiri, Government Relations Manager, Meydan Free Zone, further underscores the importance of the UAE’s 40 multidisciplinary free zones in attracting foreign investment.

“By lowering entry barriers and offering operational advantages, free zones have become central to the UAE’s strategy to stimulate economic growth and position itself as a global investment hub,” she says.

Mustafa Shaker, Sales Director at Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), adds that Invest UAE’s emphasis on innovation and future-ready industries ensures that the UAE remains a key player in the global economy.

“The seminar not only attracts new investments but also supports long-term economic resilience, making the UAE a preferred destination for business expansion and growth,” Shaker states.

Business set-up insights 

A key focus of the upcoming Invest UAE seminar is business set-up, with a dedicated panel that will identify key growth sectors for investment in the UAE.

The panel will highlight opportunities in technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, providing valuable insights for entrepreneurs and start-ups looking to enter these high-potential industries.

One of the biggest challenges for new businesses is choosing the right free zone. They differ in costs, licensing options, infrastructure, and how clients perceive your business. Entrepreneurs can either spend time doing research or work with a trusted set-up advisor who understands the market and puts their business’s needs first,” says Jack Mouzer, COO, Dart .

“Invest UAE features speakers from diverse backgrounds, offering a holistic overview of doing business in the UAE,” he adds.

Mouzer encourages attendees to take advantage of networking opportunities, connect with new contacts, exchange ideas, and learn from others in the business community.

Corporate taxation is a critical issue for businesses, especially with the UAE’s tax regime now in full effect. During the panel discussion, expert speakers will break down key aspects of the corporate tax laws, highlighting their impact on operations and what companies need to do to stay compliant. This panel will provide businesses with the insights they need to stay ahead in this evolving landscape.

“With the introduction of corporate taxation, the UAE remains an attractive destination for investors for both institutional and individual investors. These changes provide transparency, certainty to the investors, making the UAE an attractive business destination,” says Alok Chugh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner, Helios Consulting.

“At Invest UAE, we will offer valuable insights into the latest tax regulations, including free zone benefits under UAE Corporate Tax Law, value added tax (VAT), and share practical knowledge on compliance requirements, filing procedures, and tax optimisation strategies,” Chugh says.

Sadiqa Afreen from Shuraa Tax Consultants, says that it is important to be aware of the thresholds and exemption criteria.

"Monitoring your financial transactions, maintaining accurate records, and regular audits can help keep you afloat without incurring any penalties," she says, adding, "Staying compliant can be done by either hiring an in-house expert or outsourcing your accounting and financial regulatory work to tax advisors."

The seminar will also offer insights into key areas such as business acquisition and licensing, providing guidance for companies looking to expand or restructure their operations.

Free Zones Authority of Ajman is Platinum Sponsor; Strategic sponsors are Sharjah Media City (Shams), Meydan Free Zone and Triliv; Rakez, Shuraa, and Dart are Silver Sponsors.

 Support partners are Ahmad Alagbari Chartered Accountants, Hussain Al Shemsi Chartered Accountants, Fame Advisory, Liberty Business Commercial Brokers, Helios Consultancy, and AKW Consultancy. V Hotel is Venue Partner, Arpan Flower is Flower Partner, and Trophy Partner is Crystal Gallery.

 Register now to connect with industry experts and thought leaders and drive your business forward.

V Hotel Dubai: Venue Partner of Invest UAE

V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton’s collaboration with Gulf News for the Invest UAE seminar marks a significant step in strengthening its reputation as a premier venue for high-profile business events.

“This strategic partnership positions the hotel as a dynamic hub for corporate leaders, investors, and innovators, reinforcing its role in shaping impactful discussions and networking opportunities,” says Soufiane El Allam, Complex Commercial Director.

Designed to host seamless and sophisticated events, V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton offers cutting-edge facilities, including state-of-the-art meeting spaces, high-speed connectivity, and advanced audiovisual technology.

The hotel’s Amazing Room provides business travelers with a perfect blend of comfort and functionality, featuring smart technology, modern interiors, and breathtaking views, creating an inspiring atmosphere to work and unwind.

“Beyond its facilities, V Hotel delivers exceptional event planning services, gourmet catering, and a prime location in the heart of Dubai, ensuring accessibility and convenience for attendees. By combining luxury, innovation, and efficiency, V Hotel continues to set new standards in the business events landscape, making every conference and seminar a truly memorable and productive experience,” El Allam explains.