The UAE Growth and Investment Forum gets underway today at V Hotel Dubai

Gulf News’ the UAE Growth and Investment Forum gets underway today at the V Hotel Dubai, Al Habtoor City, bringing together senior policymakers, business leaders and investors for a day of discussions focused on investment opportunity, regulatory compliance, and the evolving role of free zones in the UAE’s growth strategy.

Dr Maria Hanif Al Qassim, Assistant Undersecretary for Policies and Economic Studies at the UAE Ministry of Economy, will deliver the keynote address, outlining the UAE’s economic transformation agenda and its positioning as a global hub for sustainable investment.

The one-day forum is designed to support companies at various stages of growth, offering access to expert-led panels, fireside chats and networking opportunities.

Topics on the agenda include corporate tax implementation, accounting standards, entrepreneurship in the UAE, free zone benefits and international expansion.

 Foreign investment continues to be a cornerstone of the UAE’s economic policy. With investor-friendly regulations and sector-specific ecosystems, free zones play a critical role in attracting global capital and enabling business set-up and growth.

Among today’s distinguished speakers is Ismail Al Naqi, Director-General, Free Zones Authority of Ajman, the forum’s Platinum Sponsor. His keynote outlines how the UAE’s location, infrastructure, and pro-business environment are positioning it as a key hub for global commerce.

 While commenting on how the Free Zones Authority of Ajman is driving investment and enabling business growth, Al Naqi points to recent initiatives aimed at simplifying operations and attracting new entrepreneurs.

 “We have introduced the One Click Solution, a groundbreaking innovation that simplifies business registration, residency, and banking services into a unified, frictionless experience. Our clients no longer need to navigate multiple touchpoints; everything is seamlessly integrated into one platform,” says Al Naqi.

 As investor interest in the UAE continues to grow, staying compliant with local regulations remains a priority. Speakers at the forum will share practical advice on understanding legal requirements and avoiding common mistakes.

 Syam P Prabhu, Founder & Managing Director at Aurion, says new investors often face confusion when selecting the right jurisdiction for set-up.

“For a first-time investor in the UAE who wishes to start a business, they are often bombarded with various company formation options available in free zones. The cost of incorporation varies widely from free zone to free zone.”

He notes that understanding the country’s compliance framework is just as important as selecting the right location. “Expert business advisors at Aurion can educate new investors about the regulations in place to keep their company in good standing throughout the year,” says Prabhu.

Corporate taxation is another central topic at the forum, with a couple of sessions dedicated to helping businesses understand new compliance obligations as the tax regime takes full effect.

“As the UAE’s corporate tax regime matures and is nearing the tax filing deadline, businesses must keep pace with recent regulatory developments to remain compliant,” says Priju Dominic, CEO and Founder, Dominic & Partners.

Dominic says attention to specific provisions is essential to avoid penalties and ensure accurate filings.

“Businesses must carefully consider the detailed guidance on critical areas like tax grouping, free zone tax regime, small business relief, and transfer pricing.”

The forum also highlights the UAE’s broader strategy to attract investment and enable long-term business growth.

 “Events like Gulf News’ The UAE Growth and Investment Forum offer a chance to promote the UAE’s investment-friendly policies, tax exemptions, and world-class infrastructure. More than just presenting facts, these events let us show how the UAE’s environment truly supports growth, providing businesses with a place to flourish,” says Al Naqi

The UAE Growth & Investment Forum by Gulf News is proudly supported by Ajman Free Zone as Platinum Sponsor, RAKEZ as Silver Sponsor, TRILIV, Meydan Free Zone, and Sharjah Media City as Strategic Partners, Aurion, Dominic & Partners, Ahmed Alaghbari, Tecpro Solutions, UHY, Rock Media Global Group, Al Wafaa Group, and Amber Clinics as Support Partners, Chocodate as Gifting Partner, and Crystal Gallery as Trophy Partner.