Is Your Brand Ready for Expo 2025 in Japan?
In a powerful move to strengthen the UAE’s franchise ecosystem, the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) recently played host to the second dialogue session of the Emirates Franchise Association — and it was nothing short of impactful.
The session wasn’t just another meeting — it was a strategic gathering aimed at fostering open dialogue, sharing expertise, and aligning stakeholders around the Emirates Franchise’s ambitious 2025 operational strategy. Key figures in attendance included H.E. Noor Al Tamimi, Chairwoman of the Emirates Franchise Association and Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber; H.E. Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director General of SCCI; and H.E. Saleh Abdullah Lootah, Chairman of the Association’s Executive Committee — alongside several board members, entrepreneurs, and local business representatives.
At the heart of the discussions were strategic initiatives aimed at supporting national brands, enhancing competitiveness, and encouraging expansion into both regional and international markets. The session wasn’t just about vision — it was about action.
Cementing Strategic Alliances for Growth
One of the major highlights was the signing of three significant cooperation agreements between the Emirates Franchise Association and Francorp Middle East, Mazeed Financial Platform, and Destek Patent. These partnerships are designed to build a more robust franchise-supporting environment through collaborative efforts in areas such as intellectual property, fintech, accounting solutions, consulting, and technical support.
Through these alliances, the Association is paving the way for initiatives that provide franchisees and franchisors with access to joint workshops, events, and expert advisory — all crucial to scaling up in today’s competitive business landscape.
A Platform for Knowledge Exchange
Chairwoman H.E. Noor Al Tamimi emphasised the importance of such dialogue sessions as a way to deepen communication among key players in the sector. She noted how these forums are instrumental in identifying common challenges and crafting practical solutions that support sustainable growth — not just in the UAE, but globally.
Importantly, Al Tamimi reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to the UAE’s economic diversification goals. By empowering SMEs, attracting international brands, and offering a variety of membership options, the Emirates Franchise is laying a strong foundation for new opportunities in non-oil sectors.
Laying the Groundwork for a Franchise-Friendly Future
H.E. Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi echoed this sentiment, stating that the session served as a timely review of the Association’s 2025 roadmap. The strategy, he said, aims to elevate the business ecosystem, boost investment opportunities, and align with national visions like “We the UAE 2031” — all while cementing the UAE’s role as a regional franchise powerhouse.
Hamda Al Suwaidi, Technical Director at the Association, provided a detailed recap of key milestones from previous sessions and revealed what’s ahead. One notable announcement? The Emirates Franchise will host a World Franchise Day celebration on June 11, 2025, in collaboration with the World Franchise Council and the Canadian Franchise Association at the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s HQ.
There’s also a targeted workshop coming up with the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council to spotlight the financial returns of franchising — a key consideration for prospective investors. And in an exciting international move, registration will soon open for a “Brand Promotion Trade Mission” to Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, scheduled for June 19–23, 2025.
Driving Home the Value of Franchising
The session wrapped up with an insightful workshop led by Sherine Ajami of Francorp Middle East. The focus? Franchising as a strategic tool for scaling businesses, creating jobs, and injecting innovation across key industries. Attendees received valuable insights into model selection, brand protection, and the vital importance of ongoing training and support.
The event concluded on a high note, celebrating UAE businesses that are leading by example in the franchise space. H.E. Noor Al Tamimi personally awarded certificates of appreciation to Cedar International, Al Beiruti Restaurant, Laffah Restaurant, and Minutes Quick Services — all of whom have successfully leveraged franchising to expand both locally and abroad.
