Several influential business leaders from diverse sectors, including free zones, company set-up, legal, corporate tax, finance and real estate, are confirmed to speak at Gulf News’ The UAE Growth and Investment Forum, set for September 19 at the Godolphin Ballroom in Jumeirah Emirates Towers.
Highlighting the UAE's growing prominence as a major investment hub in the Middle East, the forum's agenda features a comprehensive analysis across 10 sessions on the strategies for launching, operating, and expanding businesses in the UAE.
Through a series of engaging panels, fireside chats, networking sessions and workshops, speakers will tackle key issues shaping the UAE’s business environment. They aim to address challenges impeding small and medium enterprises (SMEs) growth, and drive actionable solutions to advance the UAE's investment landscape.
The UAE Growth and Investment Forum
When: September 19
Where: Godolphin Ballroom in Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Register now on https://events.gulfnews.com/TheUAEGrowthInvestmentForum#/
In his keynote address, Ismail Al Naqi, Director General of the Free Zones Authority of Ajman and Platinum Sponsor of the event, will emphasise the critical importance of supporting the SME and start-up ecosystem, highlighting the role of free zones in shaping and advancing the nation’s investment landscape.
Why you should attend the forum
Panel discussions will address emerging investment sectors, highlighting key areas for SME and business growth. Additionally, expert-led sessions will examine how free zones can drive success and support the UAE's transition towards a knowledge-based economy.
“SMEs and new businesses are crucial to the UAE's economic landscape. However, they often face considerable challenges to grow their businesses,” says Danish Qazi, Senior Associate, BSA Law.
“As lawyers, we can assist these businesses in overcoming some of these challenges, particularly by addressing bureaucratic hurdles and providing guidance on the UAE's regulatory framework,” he says. Qazi will be speaking at the panel titled, Empowering growth: The impact of free zones on entrepreneurial success.
The forum offers a unique chance for participants to network with industry leaders, senior managers, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers. Attendees can exchange ideas and explore strategies for business growth. The event also features collaborative discussions aimed at solving challenges and advancing business success.
Focus on corporate taxation
While corporate taxation has transformed the UAE’s business landscape by increasing accounting transparency and streamlining processes, it has also raised concerns for SMEs and new businesses regarding compliance with the tax regime. This issue will be a key focus at The UAE Growth and Investment Forum, where top taxation and finance experts will address critical challenges in adapting to the UAE's tax system.
“At the upcoming Gulf News forum, our primary goal is to share our expertise and raise awareness about effective accounting and taxation practices. We aim to use this platform to educate businesses and the public on the importance of accurate financial reporting, proactive tax planning, and compliance with evolving regulations,” says Jaison Mandapathil, Manager – Compliance & Assurance, Hussain Al Shemsi Chartered Accountants, who will be speaking at the panel titled, UAE's competitive advantage with corporate tax.
“Our focus is on providing practical and actionable insights, such as transfer pricing and ERP capabilities, that businesses can implement to enhance their financial health and operational efficiency. Taking a knowledge-sharing approach, we seek to empower businesses make informed decisions, reduce risks, and foster a culture of compliance and transparency.”
During an exclusive session, Alia Noor, Associate Partner, Alif Group Taxation and Compliance Advisory, will offer practical tips to help businesses improve their accounting and tax practices.
Noor emphasises the importance of understanding the interplay between corporate tax (CT) and value added tax (VAT), especially for businesses in free zones. Adhering to transfer pricing standards and managing cross-border tax obligations requires careful attention, she says.
“By addressing common compliance challenges and offering tailored solutions, I will help businesses better understand their tax obligations and simplify their processes,” says Noor.
Another taxation expert, Pratik Shah, Founding Partner at TMSL, will highlight how businesses can leverage new technologies, such as automation and cloud-based solutions, to enhance their taxation efficiency.
“By simplifying processes like VAT compliance and corporate tax filings and also by adhering to proper documentation, companies can reduce manual errors, ensure timely submissions, and mitigate risks of non-compliance,” Shah says.
Register now to gain access to some of the nation’s most influential voices who can help advance your business forward.
Venue Partner of The UAE Growth and Investment Forum
The Venue Partner of the forum is Jumeirah Emirates Towers, which offers an easy access to Emirates Towers metro station. A prefered venue for events and conferences in Dubai, Godolphin Ballroom features beautifully crafted ceilings and crystal chandeliers and can accommodate up to 900 guests.
Sponsors and Partners
Platinum Sponsor of the event is Free Zones Authority of Ajman. Support Partners of the event are Hussain Al Shemsi Chartered Accountant, TMSL, FAME Advisory, Ahmad Alagbari Chartered Accountants, BSA Law, Dhanguard, and Neeja Corporate Services. Technology Partner of the forum is Tally.
