Dubai’s Cashless Strategy Takes a More Coordinated Turn
As Dubai accelerates toward a cashless economy, coordination between public finance and free zones becomes the missing link.
13 Jan 2026 / by Riya Udhwani
10X Industry
Small Steps, Big Impact: How the UAE is Leading the Energy Shift
Small steps, big impact - that’s the essence of UAE’s National Demand Side Management (DSM) Programme. By focusing on energy efficiency across different sectors like construction, agriculture, and transport , the UAE is demonstrating how sustainability can drive economic growth and innovation. The DSM programme offers valuable lessons for SMEs and governments alike, proving that even modest energy efforts can lead to transformative progress.
26 Nov 2024 / by Riya Udhwani
The Future of SME Financing In Saudi Arabia: A Partnership with Purpose
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Saudi Arabia face a significant SAR 300 billion financing gap, hindering their growth and economic contribution. Through an innovative partnership, Tarabut and Geidea are poised to redefine SME financing with technology-driven solutions that align with Vision 2030’s financial inclusion and economic diversification goals. Could this collaboration mark a turning point for SMEs in the Kingdom?
26 Nov 2024 / by Riya Udhwani
How is the future of women's fertility care changing in the UAE?
“Throughout my career in various successful companies, I always wanted to make a meaningful impact, particularly in the lives of women. When the idea for Ovasave clicked, it was a no-brainer. I knew I had to quit my job and dedicate my time to creating a platform that would make the fertility journey more accessible and affordable for women in the UAE,” Torkia shares.
13 Jul 2024 / by Pratiksha Rastogi
What's the Deal
Building the Trust Layer for the AI Era
Skipr raised US$2M at US$10M valuation to expand from Hub71, enabling sovereign, secure AI-to-AI interoperability for national and enterprise digital infrastructure deployments.
5 Mar 2026 / by Mokshita P.
Saudi Arabia’s Biggest Gaming Investment Yet?
Saudi investment firm’s largest gaming move boosts local digital entertainment, acquiring Baloot-maker Kammelna with 6M downloads, signaling rising investor interest in homegrown tech and gaming.
27 Aug 2025 / by Mokshita P.
Can Zelo Fix the SME Cash Flow Crunch?
With a focus on receivables-based funding, Zelo aims to bridge the US$250B credit gap, offering fast, regulated capital access to SMEs across construction, logistics, healthcare, and more.
21 Jul 2025 / by Mokshita P.
Big Money, Bigger Mission—What’s Next for BioSapien?
With Globivest joining the investor lineup, BioSapien strengthens its financial base and appoints 12 experts to drive innovation in its MediChip localised cancer therapy.
8 Jul 2025 / by Mokshita P.
10X Technology
What’s Fueling SPARK’s Rapid Growth in 2026?
Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park reports robust growth, rising investor confidence, 7,500+ companies, global partnerships, BASE39 launch, and new startup packages driving innovation, sustainability, and technology expansion.
31 Mar 2026 / by Mokshita P.
Is Trango Tech Redefining Mobile Apps Across the GCC?
Teams in UAE and Saudi Arabia deliver scalable iOS and Android apps for startups and enterprises across fintech, healthcare and logistics.
27 Jan 2026 / by Mokshita P.
du & ADBWC Join Forces to Fuel Women-Led SMEs
MoU offers tech solutions, special services, and support to women-led SMEs in Abu Dhabi, boosting innovation, digital access, and economic participation.
2 Sept 2025 / by Mokshita P.
Abu Dhabi’s Leap Into Next-Gen Cybersecurity
ADGM, TII, Hub71, ASPIRE, and ADGMA join forces to deploy QKD-powered network, enabling businesses to test ultra-secure communications and prepare for the quantum future.
27 Aug 2025 / by Mokshita P.
What’s in It for ICV-Certified Businesses?
New collaboration offers exclusive digital tools, discounted services, and tech support to over 7,000 UAE-based SMEs, driving digital transformation and national industrial growth.
15 Jul 2025 / by Mokshita P.
Humain and the New Frontiers of Saudi Arabia’s AI Power
With the launch of Humain, Saudi Arabia is moving beyond AI adoption to full-scale ownership - of infrastructure, influence, and the future.
15 May 2025 / by Merlin Chacko
Is Abu Dhabi the New Silicon Valley?
Hub71’s 2024 Impact Report reveals US$2.17B raised by startups, 70 percent international participation, and sector-driven growth, positioning Abu Dhabi as MENA’s fastest-growing startup ecosystem.
25 Apr 2025 / by Mokshita P.
Can Augmented Reality Bring Your Brand to Life?
Projection mapping, augmented reality, and interactive displays revolutionise brand storytelling, blending art and technology to captivate and engage audiences in vibrant, personalised environments.
17 Mar 2025 / by Mokshita P.
SME Stories
Rukam Capital: Investing in Ventures That Are Shaping the Future
We reflect on the purpose-driven growth and experiences of Archana Jahagirdar, founder of a venture capital firm shaping the future of early-stage consumer-focused brands in India.
9 Jan 2025 / by Merlin Chacko
Sustainability Made Local: Sprudel’s Journey Of Making it in the Emirates
Sprudel, the eco-friendly water filtration company, proudly supports the UAE’s Make it in the Emirates initiative. By focusing on local manufacturing, the company not only strengthens economic resilience but also significantly reduces its carbon footprint. Partnering with Dubai and Sharjah-based manufacturers, Sprudel tailors its products to meet the local hospitality sector's needs while contributing to the UAE’s goal of increasing industrial GDP to AED 300BN by 2031.
5 Nov 2024 / by Riya Udhwani
Inside 1trepreneur: A Startup Community Built by Founders, For Founders
Born from the shared challenges of the startup life, three founders built a unique community where entrepreneurs help each other grow, overcome challenges, and thrive.
15 Oct 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
Can one innovative idea redefine cancer therapy? Dr. Khatija Ali believes it’s possible.
Driven by a personal tragedy and relentless curiosity, Khatija's journey from surgeon to entrepreneur highlights her commitment to reducing cancer’s side effects and improving patient outcomes. As Biosapien nears clinical trials in the UAE, her story exemplifies resilience, passion, and the power of belief in one’s mission.
16 Sept 2024 / by Pratiksha Rastogi
How an 18-year-old turned her fitness passion into a thriving business
At just 18 years old, while most people were preparing for college, Eve Lauren Heinz was already on a different path—one of entrepreneurship, fitness, and innovation. From interning at a protein bar manufacturer in Germany to launching her own company in Dubai, Eve’s journey exemplifies the courage to defy conventional norms, the power of family support, and the drive to follow one’s passions.
10 Sept 2024 / by Pratiksha Rastogi
BluSmart: Bringing Electric Mobility to the UAE
“For startups entering the automotive sector, success relies on staying ahead of the curve and identifying opportunities early on”
16 Jul 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
Trukkin: Pioneering a Digital Revolution in the Middle Eastern Logistics
Explore how Trukkin leads Middle Eastern logistics with pioneering tech, driving the transition from traditional to digital operations in this article.
7 Feb 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
Exploring the Power of Community with Playbook
Dive into the world of Playbook, a digital platform offering much more than a supportive network of community for women in MENA. Join us in conversation with Shreya Rammohan, as we explore the services that set them apart, with masterclasses, mentorship programs, and so much more.
29 Jan 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
Videos
SME Talks - Enabling B2B Commitment to Sustainability and a Circular Economy
Rana Hajirasouli, Founder of The Surpluss, shares some important sustainable practices & strategies that can be a game-changer for circular economy
25 Mar 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
SME Talks - A Sustainability & Growth Story
In conversation with Ayman Ismail, Vice President of Strategy, Business Development & Government Affairs, at Schneider Electric, as he shares their commitment to sustainability and collaboration with governments.
25 Mar 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
SME Talks - Simplifying Legal for Set Up and Funding
In conversation with Patrick Rogers, Co-Founder & CEO of Clara, as we explore how they can assist SMEs with simplifying legal processes
22 Mar 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
SME Talks - Charting Global Expansion without Franchising
In this episode of SME Talks with Eddy Massaad, Founder and CEO of Swiss Butter, we explore the innovative strategies behind their unique approach to growth in the restaurant industry.
22 Mar 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
10X People
Unlocking Long-term Growth by Investing in Communities
Companies are encouraged to integrate community engagement, sustainability, and social impact into core operations, fostering stronger ties and driving long-term business and societal resilience in 2025.
10 Mar 2025 / by Mokshita P.
Boosting Conversions: How Paymob’s Integration Powers MENA SMEs
Paymob becomes WooCommerce’s first preferred payment partner in MENA, empowering SMEs with seamless integration, over 50 payment methods, faster settlements, and omnichannel payment solutions for accelerated growth.
4 Feb 2025 / by Mokshita P.
Zaphira Nature: How One Founder Is Building a Brand Rooted in Purpose
From sourcing sustainable ingredients to listening closely to her audience, Hanane Bouchouicha believes that a small brand can slowly inspire big changes in niche markets
2 Jan 2025 / by Merlin Chacko
How to Make Your Employees Your Strongest Weapon for 2025
In times of uncertainty, is employee engagement just a ‘nice to have,’ or the key to keeping your business resilient and thriving?
17 Dec 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
Can Yogalogy Revolutionise Your Wellness Future?
As wellness innovations shape the UAE's healthcare landscape, we explore Aishwarya's vision for Yogalogy and its broader implications for mental and physical wellness.
19 Nov 2024 / by Mehak A.
How Are Emirati Women Shaping the Future of AI?
On Emirati Women’s Day, highlighting Fatima AlKhoori, Dr. Hanan Aldarmaki, Maha Alblooki, Maitha Alshehhi, and Wafa Alghallabi for their groundbreaking contributions in AI and machine learning.
29 Aug 2024 / by Mokshita P.
5 Emirati Women Who Paved the Path of Success for the Future Generations
This year, we honor five extraordinary women—Hana Al Rostamani, Aisha Al Mansoori, Amna Al Haddad, Amira Sajwani, and Amna Al Qubaisi—who are not just leaders in their respective fields but are also powerful symbols of what Emirati women can achieve.
28 Aug 2024 / by Pratiksha Rastogi
HIGH FIVE to Employee Engagement: A Conversation with Jatin Sahni on His New Book
Discover how the author's 28-year journey in corporate leadership inspired his powerful new 'cookbook' on employee engagement,
12 Aug 2024 / by Merlin Chacko
Artificial Intelligence
Can AI Help Solve the UAE’s Food Waste Crisis?
UAE food waste startup raises US$1.5m, expands partnerships and develops AI-powered surplus prediction technology to reduce waste and drive sustainable retail growth.
23 Jun 2026 / by Mokshita P.
Global Trade Faces a New Reality
Future of Trade 2026 finds AI drove 43 percent of global trade growth in H1 2025, while rising tariffs, resilient supply chains and critical minerals competition redefine global commerce.
23 Jun 2026 / by Mokshita P.
From Products to Ecosystems: Why SMEs Must Think Beyond Hardware in the AI Era
SMEs must pivot from hardware-centric models to integrated ecosystems to build long-term value.
16 Jun 2026 / by Mokshita P.
GCC’s First AI-Powered HSEQ Platform Is Here
Built for GCC compliance, bilingual SafeNexus.ai helps consulting firms digitise safety operations, targeting SMEs through scalable white-label solutions backed by Farnek Group expertise.
19 May 2026 / by Mokshita P.
New Cohort, Bigger AI Ambitions
Second cohort offers US$60,000 grants, hackathon, accelerator; builds on US$14M funding success, supporting SMEs, boosting innovation aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.
12 May 2026 / by Mokshita P.
Salesforce Removes the “AI Tax”
AI-powered tools now embedded in Suites, enabling SMEs to automate tasks, boost efficiency, and access enterprise-grade AI without added cost, complexity, or technical setup.
21 Apr 2026 / by Mokshita P.
Practical AI, Not Just Hype
Structured training and roadmap help UAE businesses adopt AI practically, focusing on governance, scalability, workforce upskilling, and aligning technology investments with measurable business outcomes and long-term growth.
7 Apr 2026 / by Mokshita P.
From Startup to Scale: Inside DominAite
Backed by National Technology Development Program, initiative offers funding, tech support, and market access to build globally competitive AI companies.
29 Mar 2026 / by Mokshita P.