Dubai participates at IMEX 2025 highlights the city's position as a premier destination for international business events
Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city's official convention bureau and part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism successfully participated at IMEX Frankfurt joined by key stakeholders. At IMEX, a delegation of 30 stakeholders from across the sector has joined DBE in showcasing Dubai's credentials as a premier global hub for business events. The delegation includes leading hotels, venues, DMCs, airlines and other service providers including Emirates, Expo City Dubai, and Dubai World Trade Centre, together highlighting Dubai's ability to deliver dynamic world-class events at the intersection of innovation, knowledge-sharing and sustainable growth. This comes as Dubai continues to earn global recognition, this week being confirmed as #1 globally for highest attendee number per association meeting in 2024, and once again ranking #1 in the Middle East for the total number of association meetings hosted during the period, according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). Cvent has this week also confirmed that Dubai maintained its #1 position among the Top 25 Meeting Destinations in the Middle East and Africa. The accolades further demonstrate the city's ability to both host prolific events and facilitate event growth for associations, allowing them to tap into the market and increase global access to members. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: 'As we engage with the global industry at IMEX Frankfurt, we are reinforcing Dubai's position as a strategic destination for impactful business events. Our consistent top rankings from ICCA and Cvent, and growing pipeline of major international events, are the result of a focused and collaborative approach with our stakeholders, as we work collectively to reinforce the emirate's position as a premier global hub for the MICE industry. Business events are integral to our tourism strategy and are increasingly driving progress across key sectors. They are playing a vital role in advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33 – to position Dubai as one of the world's most innovative, inclusive and future-ready cities, as guided and championed by the visionary leadership of the UAE.' Dubai's participation aligns with this year's IMEX theme – Impact 2.0: Activating the Future – emphasising the global events community's responsibility to address major global and community challenges while driving positive change through events, partnerships and initiatives. In line with this vision, Dubai continues to attract business events that not only grow visitation but also support innovation and deeper engagement across its economic sectors. This directly contributes to the D33 economic agenda, which aims to place Dubai among the top three global cities for business and leisure. Dubai's momentum was further underscored by a record 437 successful bids secured in 2024 to host international conferences, congresses and incentive programmes, a 20% year-on-year increase. These events are set to attract over 210,000 delegates to Dubai in the coming years, significantly contributing to the city's business and tourism ecosystem. Among the high-profile events won: Amway ESAN 2025, the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums 2025, the Global Symposium on Health Systems Research 2026, the World Congress on Medical Informatics 2027, ISAPS Olympiad World Congress 2027, Forever Living Products Global Rally 2026, the Scientific Assembly and Associated Events of the Committee on Space Research 2028 and The International Conference on Computer Vision 2029. Dubai continues to see strong growth in tourism aligned with its MICE strategy. In 2024, the city welcomed a record 18.72 million international overnight visitors, a 9% year-on-year increase. That momentum has continued into 2025, with 5.31 million international visitors arriving between January and March, marking a 3% increase compared to Q1 2024. Business events have been a key contributor to this sustained growth, generating economic impact across sectors and further strengthening Dubai's global brand. Further enhancing the city's capacity to meet rising demand in the events space, a key development includes an expansion plan for the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. As part of broader urban development initiatives including the Al Maktoum International Airport expansion, the project is a strategic investment aimed at reinforcing Dubai's position as a global platform for major conferences and exhibitions, enabling the city to host larger and more complex events that deliver long-term value that meets increasing demand and attendance.
IMEX remains a cornerstone of DBE's global engagement strategy, providing an essential platform to connect with international associations and networks. Dubai continues to use such platforms to strengthen global partnerships and attract events that support its economic, social and sustainability priorities.
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Al Etihad
2 hours ago
- Al Etihad
Global universities in Dubai announce transformative programmes and scholarships
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We will accelerate such collective efforts to contribute towards Education Strategy 2033 and Dubai Economic Agenda 'D33', and encourage young talent to discover the academic and scholarship offerings presented by universities at Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park.' Enabling Accessible Education Universities at Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City are reaffirming their commitment to making quality education accessible with a range of scholarships and grants. Amity University Dubai is offering up to 50% scholarships and a 30% bursary to support student access to quality education.'All our programmes are now fully accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation, and we are proud to stand among the UAE's higher education institutions,' said Dr Saif Al Seiari, Vice Chancellor of Amity University Dubai.'Our commitment for the coming year is to enhance student outcomes through deeper industry collaboration, research, and applied learning. 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"From pioneering interdisciplinary programs in fintech and liberal arts to forging stronger industry and global collaborations, every milestone reflects our commitment to innovation and relevance. 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Dubai is fast becoming a top study destination of choice with incentives such as the coveted Golden Visa for Creative professionals. The city's booming media sector needs qualified talent, and we look forward to continuing our role as the leading creative media university in the region to support the industry with world-class media specialists.'SP Jain School of Global Management, which celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Dubai campus in the 2024-25 academic year, is introducing the Master of Applied Finance and Wealth Management programme to prepare professionals for diverse careers in financial Jain's Executive MBA is ranked 23rd in the world for the QS International Trade Rankings 2025, and the institution is demonstrating its commitment to diverse student needs with a 'New Mothers' Jain, President of SP Jain School of Global Management, said: 'With world-class international universities in a safe environment and infrastructure that supports the growth of the AI sector, Dubai is an incredible destination for students.' Dubai International Academic City, the address of academic excellence in the region and Dubai Knowledge Park, the region's leading hub for lifelong learning, are part of TECOM Group's portfolio of 10 business districts, which includes Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Design District (d3), Dubai Science Park, and Dubai Industrial City.
Hi Dubai
2 days ago
- Hi Dubai
Building a Niche: Identifying and Capitalizing on Untapped Market Segments in Dubai
Dubai has entered a defining chapter in its economic journey. According to PwC Middle East's impact assessment, Expo 2020 contributed AED 122.6 billion in gross value added (GVA) to the UAE's economy and supported 905,200 job-years between 2013 and 2042. This momentum now fuels the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the city's economy by 2033 and elevate its position among the world's top three urban economies through 100 transformative projects spanning trade, tech, green energy, and entrepreneurship. In a city known for mega-developments and global appeal, it may seem difficult for niche ideas to stand out. But with over 95% of Dubai's economy now non-oil and sectors like logistics, retail, and digital commerce on the rise, there's growing demand for specialized, targeted ventures. Innovation is thriving—DIFC alone welcomed 1,081 new firms in the first half of 2025, a 32% increase year-on-year, signaling Dubai's strong pull for future-focused businesses. So why go niche? Because it's a strategy that makes sense, especially now. Niche businesses face less competition, enjoy stronger customer loyalty, and often command higher margins by offering deeply specialized products or services. As outlined by Delemon Technology's 2025 forecast, businesses that solve narrow problems in depth are likely to outperform generic players in both brand trust and profitability. In this article, we explore how entrepreneurs can identify and capitalize on untapped niche segments in Dubai. High‑Potential Niche Segments in Dubai – 2025 A. E‑commerce Micro‑Niche Stores Dubai's e-commerce space continues to expand rapidly, and within it, niche online stores are finding serious traction. Sectors like luxury pet supplies, custom skincare, modest fashion, and specialty electronics are seeing consistent demand. These micro-niches benefit from strong brand loyalty, relatively low competition, and higher profit margins. The best part? You don't need to scale wide—just deep. Imagine an online store that caters exclusively to designer pet accessories or eco-friendly tech gadgets, in a city where disposable income is high and personalization matters, these types of focused businesses are gaining ground fast. B. Health‑Tech & Virtual Wellness There's a growing appetite for health services that are accessible, tech-driven, and personalized. Dubai's residents are increasingly turning to telemedicine platforms, wearable diagnostics, and AI-powered wellness coaching to manage their lifestyles. After the pandemic, trust in remote healthcare services soared—and it hasn't dipped since. From virtual fitness consultations to mental health apps tailored for Arabic-speaking users, opportunities abound for startups that can blend convenience with credible care. C. Agritech & Urban Farming Dubai is investing heavily in sustainable food production. With limited arable land and high import dependence, the demand for local, tech-supported farming solutions is rising. Think vertical farms, hydroponic systems, and resource-efficient crop management tools. Entrepreneurs who can offer ready-to-install farming kits for homes, supply smart irrigation tech, or create niche B2B supply chains for local produce are stepping into a sector that's not only lucrative but also future-proof. D. FinTech & Blockchain Micro‑Solutions Digital wallets, crypto payments, and embedded finance platforms are becoming a part of daily life in Dubai. The city's push toward a cashless economy, combined with strong regulatory support through innovation sandboxes, makes it easier than ever to build in this space. There's a sweet spot in developing niche fintech tools like remittance platforms for expat workers, smart contract tools for small businesses, or ethical investing apps designed for Muslim consumers. The room for specialization is wide open. E. Sustainable & Ethical Consumer Goods Consumers in Dubai are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, especially in beauty, fashion, and everyday products. Clean beauty, circular fashion, and low-waste packaging are no longer fringe—they're in demand. Whether you're building a brand around vegan skincare, biodegradable fashion accessories, or refillable home care products, there's a market that's willing to pay a premium for responsible choices. This is especially true among younger, urban, and environmentally conscious shoppers. F. Immersive & Experiential Tech (AR/VR) Dubai is leaning into immersive tech in tourism, real estate, education, and retail. Augmented and virtual reality experiences are no longer gimmicks—they're being used to solve real business problems and enhance customer engagement. Imagine creating AR walkthroughs for retail stores, VR property tours for overseas buyers, or gamified language learning tools. In a city that thrives on innovation and spectacle, immersive tech opens the door to creative, niche-first solutions. G. Smart Mobility & Logistics Tech Dubai has already begun trials for autonomous taxis and is pushing for a fully electric taxi fleet within the next few years. The logistics sector, too, is seeing a rapid transformation, with AI-powered freight management, last-mile delivery automation, and EV-based courier services gaining ground. There's a clear opportunity here for businesses that can support this shift, whether that means providing EV infrastructure, route optimization software, or specialized courier services for sectors like health, food, or luxury retail. Validating a Niche in Dubai Market Signals: Research That Reveals Real Demand Before you invest time in a niche, confirm there's genuine demand: Search trends : Use keyword tools (e.g., Google Trends, local keyword platforms) to track search volume for niche-related terms in the UAE. Are people searching for "halal skincare," "remote healthcare Dubai," or "urban vertical farming kits"? : Use keyword tools (e.g., Google Trends, local keyword platforms) to track search volume for niche-related terms in the UAE. Are people searching for "halal skincare," "remote healthcare Dubai," or "urban vertical farming kits"? Gap analysis : Survey existing offerings—both local and international—in sectors like wellness, e-commerce, or agritech. Identify unserved or underserved needs. : Survey existing offerings—both local and international—in sectors like wellness, e-commerce, or agritech. Identify unserved or underserved needs. Consumer interviews: Speak directly with potential users—expats, local families, small businesses. Ask about pain points, frustrations, and unmet needs. Together, these methods offer a data-backed view of where niche opportunities actually exist in Dubai, rather than where they only seem promising. Tools & Tactics: From Pilot to MVP Test your hypothesis leanly before fully launching: Keyword analysis platforms : Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to check volumes, competition, and related long-tail keywords specific to Dubai or GCC regions. : Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to check volumes, competition, and related long-tail keywords specific to Dubai or GCC regions. Pilot campaigns : Run small-scale ads or social media campaigns targeting your niche segment. Measure clicks, form submissions, or sign-ups as proxies for interest. : Run small-scale ads or social media campaigns targeting your niche segment. Measure clicks, form submissions, or sign-ups as proxies for interest. Lean MVPs: Launch minimal viable products or pre-launch landing pages. Track engagement, collect feedback, and iterate quickly before investing in full inventory or app development. These lean validation steps minimize risk and help you find product–market fit faster in a high-velocity market like Dubai. Regulatory Pathways: Navigate Business Setup with Clarity Choosing the right legal structure can shape your ability to operate and grow: Mainland vs. Free Zone Feature Mainland Free Zone Ownership Up to 100% foreign ownership 100% foreign ownership Market Scope Can operate across UAE and internationally Limited to free zone plus export; mainland access via NOC Licensing Speed Typically ~1 month setup Typically ~1–3 weeks; faster and smoother Office Requirements Minimum ~200 sq ft office to open bank account Flexi desks or virtual offices allowed Taxation Subject to 9% corporate tax on profits (>AED 375K) Exempt if earning qualifying income; 9% applies otherwise Audit Requirements Mandatory Varies by zone; many small zones exempt SMEs Cost & Capital AED 25K–40K setup; AED 150K–300K capital practical AED 10K–50K setup; AED 50K–1M capital (depends on zone) Free Zone models are ideal for digital-first, export-based, or international services ventures. are ideal for digital-first, export-based, or international services ventures. Mainland models allow unrestricted business within the UAE and are suited for ventures targeting local consumers or B2B clients. ➤ Since March 2025, Dubai's Executive Council Decision No. 11 of 2025 has enabled free zone companies to operate onshore via formal pathways—such as licensing a branch, obtaining temporary permits, or running a mainland branch—without relocating the core entity. This adds flexibility if you want both free zone benefits and mainland market access. Innovation Sandboxes Free zones like DIFC (with its FinTech Hive), Dubai Internet City, and Meydan are especially tailored for startups in fintech, health-tech, immersive tech, and innovation sectors. They offer regulatory clarity, mentorship, and connection to investors and labs, making them ideal for niche-first ventures seeking a fast, supported scale-up path. Positioning & Value Differentiation Unique Value Proposition: Speak With Precision To truly stand out in Dubai's bustling niche landscape, your unique value proposition should be razor-sharp. Clearly articulate: Who you serve (hyper-specific persona or demographic) you serve (hyper-specific persona or demographic) What pain point you address pain point you address How your solution is uniquely different from anything existing This isn't just about being niche—it's about being meaningful. A wellness brand focused on postpartum nutrition for expat mothers, a fintech app serving freelance creative professionals, or a fashion line inspired by Emirati art storytelling—all need crisp messaging that resonates deeply, not broadly. Brand Identity: Local Roots, Global Appeal Dubai thrives on the convergence of cultures. A strong brand reflects this by blending local authenticity with global relevance. Drawing inspiration from local motifs, calligraphy, colors, or storytelling traditions creates emotional resonance, especially when done authentically. At the same time, maintain international professionalism in visuals, tone, and packaging (English plus Arabic). By respecting cultural nuance—such as honoring UAE values, appropriate visual language, and long-term trust-building—you embed credibility from day one. Smart Partnerships: Build Culture and Credibility The right collaborations can accelerate positioning and brand elevation: Influencer Academies & Creator Networks Dubai's new travel creator academies and micro-influencer programs uphold high standards for digital storytelling. Partnering with certified creators—who understand local ethos while producing global-quality content—helps your niche brand reach engaged and trust-based audiences. Artisan & Cultural Collaborations Teaming up with local design hubs, galleries, or cultural incubators such as Dubai Design District or Tashkeel can lend authenticity and storytelling richness. Artisan-crafted packaging, limited-edition motifs grounded in Arab heritage, or collaboration videos built around creation stories—all add cultural depth. Industry Labs & Innovation Forums Whether embedded in a fintech sandbox, health-tech accelerator, or sustainability incubator, participation in innovation zones gives niche brands access to credibility infrastructure. It creates narrative hooks like 'powered by' or 'developed with' and promising access to mentorship, beta testers, and investor networks. Go‑to‑Market Tactics Digital‑First Launch Dubai's population is highly connected and digitally active, making digital-first strategies a no-brainer. To reach your niche effectively: SEO with long-tail and voice-search phrases : Instead of broad keywords, focus on specific phrases your ideal customer might use—like 'halal skincare for teens in Dubai' or 'home hydroponics starter kit.' This ensures your brand is discovered by people who are already searching for exactly what you offer. : Instead of broad keywords, focus on specific phrases your ideal customer might use—like 'halal skincare for teens in Dubai' or 'home hydroponics starter kit.' This ensures your brand is discovered by people who are already searching for exactly what you offer. Targeted social media campaigns : Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn are essential for reaching segmented audiences. Tailor your ads based on interests, behaviors, and location. Focus on visuals and copy that speaks directly to your niche's values and problems. : Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn are essential for reaching segmented audiences. Tailor your ads based on interests, behaviors, and location. Focus on visuals and copy that speaks directly to your niche's values and problems. Micro-influencer outreach: Collaborate with influencers who have smaller, more engaged communities. Their followers often trust them more than big celebrities, and their niche alignment can boost conversion and loyalty from the start. Blending Virtual and Physical Formats Dubai is a hybrid market where people value both online ease and offline experiences. To build presence and credibility: Pop-ups and demo kiosks : Setting up short-term activations in malls, co-working spaces, or lifestyle events helps introduce your product, collect feedback, and build buzz. It's especially effective for product trials or awareness-building before a full launch. : Setting up short-term activations in malls, co-working spaces, or lifestyle events helps introduce your product, collect feedback, and build buzz. It's especially effective for product trials or awareness-building before a full launch. Immersive events: Hosting workshops, VR demos, or sampling experiences tied to local culture or lifestyle trends adds a layer of emotional engagement. These formats are great for storytelling, press coverage, and user-generated content. Building Community and Loyalty Your niche grows stronger when it feels like a movement, not just a business. Niche forums and peer networks : Create dedicated online spaces—WhatsApp groups, Discord communities, or invite-only mailing lists—where early adopters can connect, share experiences, and give feedback. A strong sense of belonging builds brand champions. : Create dedicated online spaces—WhatsApp groups, Discord communities, or invite-only mailing lists—where early adopters can connect, share experiences, and give feedback. A strong sense of belonging builds brand champions. Loyalty programs with meaning: Instead of standard discounts, offer perks like early access to new products, exclusive content, or VIP experiences. People are more likely to stick around when they feel valued beyond a transaction. Omnichannel Synergy Consumers in Dubai expect a seamless journey across all touchpoints. To meet those expectations: Connect online and offline : Use tools like WhatsApp for customer service, make your website mobile-optimized, and sync offers across platforms. Whether someone visits your pop-up or finds you on social media, the experience should feel consistent. : Use tools like WhatsApp for customer service, make your website mobile-optimized, and sync offers across platforms. Whether someone visits your pop-up or finds you on social media, the experience should feel consistent. Unify your brand story: Ensure your digital ads, influencer content, product packaging, and physical experiences all tell the same story—one that's clear, authentic, and tailored to your niche. Risks & Mitigation 1. Regulatory Complexity & Licensing Costs Dubai offers multiple business structures—from mainland setups to free zones—but navigating the right path isn't always straightforward: Rules vary by emirate and sector. Certain businesses (e.g, fintech, food, healthcare) need extra regulatory approvals, NOCs, or specialist licensing. Setup costs can range widely: free zone incorporation may start at AED 10K–50K, while mainland setup often runs AED 25K–40K, plus capital requirements. Hidden compliance costs may arise from licensing renewals, audits, and industry-specific regulations. Missteps can result in delays or penalties. Mitigation Steps: Consult specialized business setup advisors early on to identify the ideal structure for your niche. Factor in licensing types, regulatory fees, and renewal timelines during your financial planning. Where applicable, explore regulatory sandbox programs or innovation zones—such as those in fintech—that allow for controlled testing environments and faster market entry without bypassing compliance. 2. Market Readiness: Culture, Price Sensitivity, Adoption Dubai is culturally diverse, affluent, but also discerning: Consumer behavior mixes premium expectations with growing price awareness—shoppers expect high quality, but are selective and research-focused. The population includes about 90% expatriates, each with different spending patterns and loyalty triggers. Western expats value convenience and brand consistency; others may prioritize value or remittance-friendly pricing. Cultural nuance matters—holiday observances, modest design preferences, and local values all impact product acceptance. Mitigation Steps: Conduct segmentation studies and interviews across target communities (Emirati, South Asian, Western expats). Pilot pricing models to test sensitivity: entry-level vs premium tiers, bundled vs subscription services. Localize not just marketing language but product design, imagery, tone, and timing (e.g., Ramadan collections, Emirati-themed packaging). Logistics, Supply Chain, and Capability Barriers The UAE's logistics sector is growing fast but faces key challenges: Customs rules can be complex and change frequently—mistakes in documentation can result in delays or costly fines. High-volume ports like Jebel Ali are efficient but often suffer congestion, which affects delivery timing and reliability. There's a shortage of skilled logistics technicians, and demand for tech integration, last-mile solutions, AI-fueled tracking, and fleet digitization is in early growth stages. Mitigation Steps: Work with experienced clearing agents or third-party logistics providers early on. Build buffer time into delivery projections and offer realistic fulfillment windows to customers. Prioritize automation—track shipments, digitize inventory, and consider AI-based logistics tools to reduce errors and improve reliability. 4. Geopolitical & Compliance Risks Dubai sits at a global crossroads—this brings both opportunity and exposure: Regional tensions (e.g., Israel-Iran conflict) may impact trade routes, transport corridors, or investor confidence, not in the short term, but via cautious contingency planning. Financial compliance frameworks (anti-money laundering, cybercrime laws, data privacy) are still evolving. Violations—even unintended—can result in fines or bans. Mitigation Steps: Develop basic business continuity and crisis plans—divert shipping, backup suppliers, or staff protocols. Monitor updates from UAE authorities on AML/CFT regulations, data protection, and licensing mandates. Partner with legal advisors experienced in Zone-based and mainland laws to stay compliant as rules update. By 2025, Dubai will have become more than a hub for large enterprises—it's a city that values focus and clarity. The environment supports those who build with intention, offering targeted solutions to real needs. If you can define a clear niche, solve a specific problem, and align with the city's values, there's space to grow. In Dubai, precision isn't just rewarded; it sets you apart. Let your niche be the beginning. The rest will follow. Also read: Surviving the Off-Season: How Seasonal Businesses in Dubai Can Stay Profitable Year-Round Seasonal businesses in Dubai face unique challenges during the summer slowdown—but with the right planning, operations, and marketing, the off-season can become a time of growth. 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Zawya
3 days ago
- Zawya
Emirati Human Resources Development Council, Azizi Developments ink MoU to boost Emiratization
Dubai, UAE: The Emirati Human Resources Development Council (EHRDC) in Dubai has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Azizi Developments, marking a significant step forward in promoting Emiratization and enhancing the participation of UAE nationals in the private real estate sector. The signing ceremony, attended by several officials representing both parties, underscores EHRDC's ongoing commitment to strengthening Emirati participation across the private sector. The agreement establishes a robust framework for public-private cooperation, aimed at empowering Emirati talent by providing quality employment opportunities and equipping them with specialised training to succeed in the real estate development sector - one of Dubai's key economic drivers. Grounded in three core pillars, the agreement emphasizes creating employment opportunities within Azizi's developments, introducing training initiatives to enhance the skills of national talent, and enabling direct knowledge transfer from the company's experts to Emirati employees. Moreover, it seeks to close the gap between academic qualifications and labour market needs in the real estate sector. The partnership supports the goals of Dubai Economic Agenda D33, focused on enhancing the competitiveness of the business landscape, and aligns with the objectives of UAE Centennial 2071 which strives to build a sustainable, knowledge-driven economy. It also highlights the mutual dedication of both parties toward advancing Emiratisation efforts in the private sector and empowering national talent. His Excellency Abdulla Ali Bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of DGHR Department and Deputy Chairman of EHRDC, highlighted that the MoU reflects the effective collaboration between public and private sectors in advancing Emiratisation goals. H.E. also pointed out that the real estate sector holds significant potential for engaging Emirati professionals. H.E. added: 'This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our mission to enhance the contribution of Emirati talent within the real estate sector, a vital pillar of the nation's economy. The collaboration holds special importance owing to Azizi Development's role as a strategic partner, supported by its extensive experience in real estate development and its portfolio of iconic projects that are key to Dubai's urban landscape. Through this partnership, ambitious Emiratis will gain access to valuable hands-on experience and advanced skills through comprehensive training programs aligned with international standards, alongside employment opportunities in major developments. This will enhance their preparedness and competitiveness, enabling them to play a meaningful role in driving the sector's growth.' Mr. Mirwais Azizi, Founder & Chairman of Azizi Developments said: 'We are proud to partner with the Dubai Government Human Resources Department to invest in Emirati talent. At Azizi we see the hiring, training, and empowering of our Emirati employees not only as a business imperative, but also as a shared responsibility to build a better future in this wonderful country. I look forward to collaborating closely with DGHR and the Government of Dubai towards building a stronger pool of professional Emirati talent. Sustainable growth starts with people.' Abdulaziz Al Falahi, the Emiratization Recruitment Superintendent of the EHRDC, stated: 'We are collaborating closely with private sector partners to build an attractive and supportive workplace for UAE nationals. By enhancing their skills and empowering them to play an active role in key industries, particularly real estate, we are making a strategic investment in the future of our economy.' Both parties are committed to deepening their cooperation through employment and training programs tailored to the needs of the labour market. They focus on improving the administrative and technical capabilities of Emirati nationals while creating a supportive work environment in the private sector, and thus contributing to the sustainable development of the emirate. Azizi Developments has hosted an award ceremony for its growing Emirati workforce in the Conrad Hotel on the 23rd of July 2025, as part of which appreciation certificates were bestowed upon the UAE nationals adding value to the group of companies, and with the three main change makers having received the 'Emirati Hero' award. EHRDC remains dedicated to its mission of training, recruiting, and nurturing UAE talent within the private sector by developing an integrated system built on scientific and practical foundations. This commitment is reflected in the launch of targeted initiatives supported by comprehensive field studies that assess labour market demands, particularly within key economic sectors. These efforts aim to create a supportive environment for Emirati professionals through close collaborations with leading organisations across diverse industries. -Ends- About Azizi Developments Azizi Developments is a leading developer based in Dubai, UAE. With more than 45,000 homes successfully delivered to local and international investors and end users of over 100 nationalities, the developer prides itself on its extensive portfolio of modern luxury developments across Dubai's most sought-after residential and commercial destinations, its construction-driven approach, and its commitment to transparency and customer centricity. The developer makes it its international mission to develop lifestyles and enrich the lives of its residents with a focus on catalyzing the vision and development of the markets that it operates in. Azizi currently has around 150,000 units under construction, valued at several tens of billions of US dollars. The company is renowned for developing the world's second tallest skyscraper, Burj Azizi, as well as the master planned communities of Azizi Riviera, Azizi Venice, and Azizi Milan, among various other world-class projects across MBR City, Palm Jumeirah, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai South, Dubailand, Al Furjan, Studio City, Sports City and Downtown Jebel Ali. For further information about Azizi Developments, please contact: Tizian H. G. Raab Head of PR & Communications and Advisor to the Group CEO Azizi Developments Email: tizian@
