From tax benefits to Golden Visas: How UAE policies are helping businesses
The UAE has rapidly emerged as one of the fastest-growing entrepreneurial hubs in the GCC, thanks to a combination of supportive government policies and a dynamic business environment.
These policies include tax incentives, free zones, 100 per cent foreign ownership, and attractive programmes like golden visas, all of which provide a solid foundation for both local and international startups to overcome entrepreneurial challenges.
Maryam Hassani, acting head of Trends & Innovation at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), emphasised the critical role these initiatives play.
'The UAE's infrastructure, advanced technology, and efficient logistics networks create an ideal environment for startups," she explained. These efforts not only streamline the startup process but also attract foreign investment, which is crucial for their growth and sustainability.
One of the standout examples of this supportive environment is the ECA's initiatives, which focus on fostering startups in the early childhood development (ECD) sector. The ECA works closely with various government agencies to help startups tailor their solutions to meet the unique needs of the UAE market. This collaborative approach enhances the local startup scene by providing essential resources and guidance.
Among the notable programs is the ECA's flagship Anjal Z Program. Launched in 2020 and funded by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the programme aims to attract global ECD startups and help them localize their solutions within Abu Dhabi.
'The Anjal Z Program is designed to bridge critical gaps in early childhood development while also contributing to Abu Dhabi's economic diversification,' Maryam explained. 'The program has supported more than 45 early and growth-stage startups, helping them establish a presence in the UAE and tackle critical challenges in ECD.'
Another key initiative is the Abu Dhabi Youth Challenge (ADYC), a 54-hour boot camp designed for aspiring entrepreneurs aged 18 to 26. The program allows participants to explore the intersection of ECD and entrepreneurship, while also offering opportunities to intern with startups from the Anjal Z Program.
In 2024, the ADYC was revamped under the World Early Childhood Development (WED) Movement, expanding its reach to include professionals, academics, and researchers.
'The redesigned ADYC+ attracted 270 applicants, from which 150 were selected,' said Hassani, adding: 'By the end of the first day, 58 innovative ideas were pitched, leading to the formation of 18 promising teams.'
The ADYC program is structured to provide mentorship, team-building experiences, and a platform for participants to present their ideas to industry experts. 'We aim to equip young entrepreneurs with the essential skills needed to thrive in Abu Dhabi's rapidly evolving economy,' Hassani emphasised.
Through these various initiatives, the ECA illustrates how government policies can effectively support global startups. 'By supporting global startups from funding to localisation, the government enables knowledge transfer, job creation, and enhanced competitiveness,' Hassani reiterated.
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