Abu Dhabi broadens market presence with SME Expo

Dubai reigns are the Middle East’s most popular destination for startup entrepreneurs. Most major cities in the region is taking notice of the series of initiatives that have eased the process of setting up a startup in the Emirate, and they are following in its footsteps, battling to become startup hubs in the region.

While all cities have their strengths and weaknesses, they are going all out to attract startups to fortify their long term economic goals. Abu Dhabi, the capital of the country, is frequently launching initiatives in line with these aims.

In their latest attempt to boost wider market presence, they hosted Abu Dhabi’s SME Expo—a two-day event aimed to increasing SME contribution to the national economy and giving them a higher market presence in the increasingly competitive environment.

Dr Adeeb Alafeefi, director, National Programme for SMEs and Projects, said the event is part of the UAE government's strategic efforts to increase the contribution of the SME sector to the national economy. "The current share of the sector to the country's gross domestic product in 2018 is estimated to be at about 49 per cent. The exhibition will boost national efforts aimed at raising contributions to 60 per cent by 2021, in line with the objectives of the national agenda."

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