Abu Dhabi: Moza Obaid Al Nasri, Acting CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, revealed that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Abu Dhabi account for more than 90 percent of total businesses, employing nearly half of the workforce, and contribute 42.8 percent to the emirate’s non-oil GDP.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Nasri highlighted the crucial role of SMEs in propelling economic growth, innovation, and diversification. She pointed out that Abu Dhabi’s competitive and inclusive business environment is among the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in the MENA region, with a 28 percent increase in value.
Al Nasri emphasized the significance of the ‘Falcon Economy’ strategy, which targets high-growth sectors and highlighted ongoing efforts to create a supportive regulatory and financial environment for SMEs. These initiatives aim to encourage innovation and sustainable growth, bolstered by strategic investments.
Ahead of the Abu Dhabi Business Week, she reiterated the emirate’s comm
itment to empowering SMEs by offering resources and networking opportunities to tackle business challenges. The event is set to unite leaders from the public and private sectors to foster dialogue, policy development, and partnership opportunities.
Al Nasri concluded by stressing the role of the Khalifa Fund in supporting entrepreneurship through access to funding and expert consultancy, aimed at scaling both local and international business ventures. The Abu Dhabi Business Week will also feature the Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition, providing startups with the chance to present their ideas to investors for potential funding and support.
