Latest news with #EntrepreneurMiddleEast
Entrepreneur
an hour ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Building Bridges: From Slovakia to the UAE
Dusan Elko's family business -which is now expanding into the UAE- proves that a successful entrepreneurship lies in cross-border collaboration, empathy-driven services, and the courage to evolve. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. For over three decades, Dušan Elko has been at the helm of a family-run enterprise that bridges Eastern European caregiving talent with the growing needs of Western Europe's aging population. The family's journey—from his sister's initial role as a caregiver to becoming a renowned employer, headhunter, and clinic owner—exemplifies the multifaceted nature of entrepreneurship. Remarkably, at the age of 77, Elko's mother continues to manage the office, embodying the family's enduring commitment. Now, with aspirations for global expansion, particularly in the UAE, Elko's story serves as a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and foresight. Q: What inspired your journey into entrepreneurship? It all began in the early 1990s, just after the fall of the Iron Curtain in Eastern Europe. Western Europe faced a significant demand for caregivers. Recognizing this opportunity, our family started employing skilled personnel from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Serbia, and Ukraine to work in private households in Germany. What started as a small operation initiated by my mother gradually evolved into one of the most respected recruitment companies and employers in the caregiving sector in Slovakia with abundance of vacancies at all times. Three decades is a long time in business. What's been the secret of the longevity of your business? Constant reinvention. The healthcare and caregiving landscape in Slovakia, and across Europe, has transformed significantly over the past decade. We've had to adapt creatively and quickly. For instance, when local demand for elderly care increased in Slovakia, we launched home caregiving services, which became an official implementation partner for EU-funded government programs led by the Ministry of Employment. Why are you now looking to the UAE and surrounding region for talent? Western Europe, particularly Germany, faces an acute aging crisis with a shrinking caregiving workforce. At the same time, Eastern Europe—our traditional labor source—is also experiencing similar demographic challenges. We realized we needed to look further. Filipino caregivers, for instance, are not only highly skilled and compassionate but also legally able to work in the EU through Slovakia, which can eventually lead to permanent residency and even citizenship. The UAE is a strategic bridge for this kind of talent migration. With Europe changing so fast, have you launched any new ventures to stay ahead? Absolutely. Identifying future trends—economic, social, and geopolitical—is key to staying competitive. One of our latest ventures is which provides advanced home nursing services, including physiotherapy, IV treatments, bloodwork, and injections. We've also leveraged our industry experience to launch an innovative dental and wellness clinic, bringing a holistic approach to health and eldercare. It's all part of our mission to evolve with the times. What's next on the horizon for your business? Building meaningful partnerships beyond Europe—especially in regions like the UAE—is our next chapter. We're not just recruiting talent anymore; we're creating a global caregiving ecosystem. With aging populations everywhere and growing demand for compassionate, high-quality care, we believe that Slovakia can be a key node in a much larger international network. And we're just getting started.
Entrepreneur
7 hours ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Sustainability in Business: Lessons from the Food and Beverage Sector
The future of sustainable business in the Middle East lies in partnership — with suppliers, regulators, and communities alike. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. In today's business landscape, sustainability has evolved from a corporate buzzword into a fundamental expectation. Across the Middle East, where economic growth and urban development are accelerating, businesses are re-evaluating how they operate — not only to remain competitive, but to be responsible stewards of the environment. The food and beverage (F&B) sector is particularly well-positioned to lead this change. With high energy demands, supply chain complexities, and significant packaging and food waste, the industry carries both a large environmental footprint and a powerful opportunity for impact. Drawing from experiences within one of the world's largest quick-service restaurant brands, this article explores how sustainability practices can be integrated into core business operations in a region as diverse and complex as the Middle East. The focus is not on promotion, but on practical strategies and challenges — and how companies can begin or deepen their journey toward environmental responsibility. Why Local Context Matters While global sustainability frameworks offer a helpful foundation, regional adaptation is essential. In the Middle East, climate, infrastructure, and policy differ widely between countries — from water scarcity in the Gulf to rapidly urbanising centres in the Levant. Businesses must tailor their strategies to reflect these realities. For example, energy use is a key area of focus, especially in hot climates where cooling systems are essential. Understanding and optimising HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems is not just a technical detail — it's a business imperative. Similarly, innovations like low proximity hoods in kitchens can reduce overall energy consumption significantly when implemented at scale. Investments in energy-efficient equipment, such as LED lighting and high-efficiency refrigeration, might seem minor in isolation. Yet, when adopted consistently across locations, they contribute meaningfully to both environmental impact and operational cost savings. Three Core Pillars of Sustainable Practice Sustainability efforts in the F&B industry often centre around three main pillars: environmental responsibility, responsible sourcing, and waste reduction. Each presents its own challenges and opportunities in the Middle Eastern context. 1. Environmental Responsibility Adopting energy-saving technologies, exploring renewable energy sources like solar (particularly in high-insolation regions such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia), and conserving water through low-flow fixtures and efficient cleaning practices are becoming standard in many progressive operations. 2. Responsible Sourcing Local procurement reduces emissions tied to transport while supporting regional economies. Businesses are increasingly working with suppliers who meet standards not only for quality, but also for ethical labour practices and environmental impact. Rigorous auditing and supply chain transparency play a key role in maintaining accountability. 3. Waste Reduction and Recycling The F&B sector produces large volumes of waste — food scraps, packaging, and single-use materials among them. Inventory control systems, food donation programs, and in-store recycling can help mitigate this. In some regions, composting is also gaining traction, despite infrastructure challenges. Challenges and Opportunities in Implementation Implementing sustainability measures in the Middle East comes with complexities. Regulatory environments vary, and upfront costs for green technologies can be a barrier. Infrastructure for recycling and renewable energy may be inconsistent across markets. Yet, these challenges also open the door for innovation. Businesses willing to invest in energy solutions or engage with local suppliers to build capacity often find long-term gains — both financially and reputationally. Moreover, as consumer awareness around sustainability increases, demand is growing for businesses that can demonstrate real action, not just intention. Looking Ahead: A Call to Action Sustainability is not a destination but a continuous process. As governments across the region introduce more robust environmental policies and incentives, there is growing momentum for businesses to step up. The future of sustainable business in the Middle East lies in partnership — with suppliers, regulators, and communities alike. For the F&B industry in particular, every decision — from equipment to packaging, sourcing to staff training — holds the potential to shape a more resilient, responsible business model. The companies that succeed will be those that not only adapt to change but help lead it.
Entrepreneur
3 days ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Nominate Now: The 2025 Leaders in Fintech Awards Are Calling for the Brightest Innovators
Entrepreneur Middle East will host the fifth edition of the Leaders in Fintech Awards on June 23, 2025, at the prestigious Habtoor Palace Dubai. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. As a celebration of the MENA region's vibrant fintech ecosystem, Entrepreneur Middle East will host the fifth edition of the Leaders in Fintech Awards on June 23, 2025, at the prestigious Habtoor Palace Dubai. This exclusive, invitation-only gala will gather the most influential figures in the industry to spotlight the individuals and organizations driving innovation and shaping the future of financial technology across the region. Staged under the banner of Entrepreneur Middle East—the definitive voice of the region's startup and innovation landscape—the event promises an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration. Nominations for each of the Leaders in Fintech Awards can be submitted through the official website linked here, which also lists all of the necessary guidelines for the process. Don't miss your chance to shine—submit your nomination today and be recognized among the region's fintech elite.
Entrepreneur
23-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Saudi Cultural Development Fund's Tailored Financing Could Accelerate the Kingdom's Filmmaking Ambitions
You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. The Saudi Cultural Development Fund (CDF), an investment fund to support the sustainable development of the Kingdom's cultural sector, hosted a roundtable and networking lunch at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, bringing together industry leaders, major studio executives, filmmakers, producers, and financiers. Titled "Collaborate and Invest: Shaping the Future of the Film Industry," the event explored tailored financing mechanisms driving sustainable growth in the film sector and foster international collaborations, aligning with Saudi Arabia's vision to become a global hub for creative filmmaking. During the event, CDF announced a significant expansion of its role in supporting film projects, introducing a comprehensive financial excellence framework. This approach, created in close collaboration with various partners within the Saudi film ecosystem, aims to streamline funding processes, enhance clarity, and expand access for stakeholders across the entire film industry value chain. The framework aims to improve the efficiency of the incentives process, targeting a 60% reduction in processing times for successful applications. Key components include: Clear Eligibility Criteria: Clear guidelines for accessing financial support. Clear guidelines for accessing financial support. Well-Defined Evaluation Process: Objective assessments for project funding to enhance decision-making. Objective assessments for project funding to enhance decision-making. Faster Processing Times: An integrated digital system for submitting, tracking, and managing funding applications. This new direction reflects CDF's strategic commitment to accelerating the growth of the Saudi film sector, aligning closely with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and cultural empowerment. By enhancing the funding infrastructure and fostering a competitive, globally connected film industry, CDF aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for the film sector. Related: UAE Homegrown Production House 1301 Films Aims to Promote MENA Region's Original Formats
Entrepreneur
20-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
ICYMI: The Inaugural 'Governance of Emerging Technologies Summit' Revives the Discourse on Ethical and Responsible AI Development
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Ethics in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), cross-border data governance, cybersecurity resilience, and post-quantum security were among the major topics of conversation during the inaugural Governance of Emerging Technologies Summit (GETS 2025), which was held in Abu Dhabi from May 5-6, 2025. Launched under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the event was organized by the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) in strategic partnership with the UAE Public Prosecution. The first-of-its-kind regional convention brought together 1,000 participants from more than 20 countries —including policymakers, legal experts, technologists, and youth leaders— with an aim to clearly define the frameworks for responsible governance of advanced technologies. Noteworthy dignitaries among the many high-level attendees at GETS 2025 included the Attorney General of Qatar, the Attorney General of Egypt, and the Deputy Attorney General of Oman. The two-day event put a spotlight on the UAE's position as a leading force in shaping responsible, inclusive, and forward-looking technology governance. That sentiment was perhpas most evident during a keynote speech from Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications. While addressing the audience, Olama underscored the UAE's early investment in building a national AI ecosystem that prioritises flexibility, responsibility, and competitiveness. "Guided by visionary leadership, the UAE recognised early on the importance of artificial intelligence and the need to shape its future through bold action and responsible governance," he said. "We have mobilised national capabilities, enacted forward-looking regulatory frameworks, and launched pioneering initiatives to stay ahead of rapid transformations and enhance our global competitiveness. The UAE's approach is rooted in flexibility, global collaboration, and the development of technologies that empower societies and drive responsible innovation. This summit reflects our national commitment, providing a global platform to advance policy dialogue and build a balanced international framework for governing advanced technologies." Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications at GETS 2025. Image source: GETS Olama's emphasise on innovating responsibly had earlier been highlighted by UAE Attorney General Chancellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, who decalred that "innovation without ethics is incomplete," during his keynote address. "And the future of emerging technologies must be guided not only by advancement, but by a higher purpose—serving humanity and society," he added. Dr. Al Shamsi's words hold added gravitas in the added knowledge that, during the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 in Davos earlier this year, the UAE government and WEF jointly launched the Global Regulatory Innovation Platform (GRIP)- a platform that aims to understand, evaluate, and design human-centered legislation that serves communities in an era of rapid technological and digital advancements. During a high-level dialogue, Faisal Al Bannai, Advisor to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology and Secretary-General of ATRC, reiterated this purpose-driven approach towards innovation by stating that, "Tech organisations must take some responsibility for the technologies they release. It cannot be that they issue it and let society deal with the consequences. This requires strong, ongoing collaboration between technology players and regulators." Backing up this conversation was Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State and Secretary General of the UAE Cabinet, who also shed light on the UAE's long-term vision for governance. "Embedding responsible technology governance into national policy is not a short-term ambition," Al Hammadi declared. "It is part of a broader commitment to shaping agile institutions, forward-looking legislation, and resilient societies capable of navigating the complexities of the digital age." Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State and Secretary General of the UAE Cabinet at GETS 2025. Image source: GETS Indeed, the notion that the right governance policies will eventually trickle into other entities in the UAE's wider business landscape was vividly pointed out by Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, when she spoke about the critical role of AI in preparing future generations. During a panel discussion —which saw Al Amiri being joined by experts from fMohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Abundance Studio, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lameen Abdul-Malik— she noted that fundamental technological transformations, particularly within AI, require accelerated efforts to prepare students and empower them with the necessary tools to contribute to the advancement of society. This, she added, also requires establishing ethical frameworks related to these technologies, enabling them to maximize their benefits and applications in daily life. "Integrating AI concepts and tools into academic curriculum represents a strategic investment in building more resilient societies prepared for the demands of the future," Al Amiri said, adding that that the education system in the UAE has worked to incorporate AI into its curricula, in a bid to stay future ready while also staying committed to anticipating the global education shifts and trends. Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, UAE Minister of Education at GETS 2025. Image source: GETS Similar sector-specific sessions delved into the role of AI in healthcare, civil defence, education, creative industries, and manufacturing. During one such session, Dr Amin Hussain Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary of the Health Regulations Sector at the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), along with representatives from NMC Healthcare and the Al Dhafra Youth Council, examined how governance frameworks must keep pace with the deployment of AI in clinical environments to ensure data protection and improved patient outcomes. In a separate session, leaders from Honeywell, BP, AIQ, and Coders Launchpad discussed the industrial transformation underway through smart manufacturing, and the safeguards needed to ensure responsible and secure deployment. Separately, in a key session titled "From Vision to Empowerment: The Roadmap to Justice 2030", Chancellor Salem Ali Al Zaabi, Head of Public Prosecution at the Office of the UAE Attorney General, presented the UAE Public Prosecution's Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030. The strategy aims to enhance efficiency in the justice system, support decision-makers, and improve service quality—while upholding the highest ethical and legal standards. Insights on creative sector governance were also shared at GETS 2025, as speakers from the National Library and Archives, Byteplus, and Lune Technologies addressed the risks and rights associated with generative AI and digital content ownership. With global reccomendations being shared over the course of the two days, the Summit also witnessed calls for a global charter on human-AI interaction that integrates ethics and equity into innovation from the outset, discourse on the need to empower youth in shaping governance, and multiple talks on prioritising digital trust and cybersecurity as national imperatives. Notable sessions included those by Changpeng Zhao (CZ), co-founder of Binance and Giggle Academy, who explored how regulatory systems can evolve to meet the demands of a decentralized Web3 landscape; and Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of the Technology Innovation Institute, who highlighted the dual imperative of innovation and resilience in an era shaped by AI and quantum disruption. GETS 2025 also brought post-quantum readiness and next-generation encryption to the forefront, with experts pushing for the pivotal need for early data audits, encryption upgrades, and alignment with post-quantum standards. The Summit also spotlighted digital inclusion and linguistic equality in AI, advocating for increased investment in local datasets, digital literacy, and AI accessibility to bridge global and language divides. Regional and global experts also explored the cyberrisks that are innate to emerging technologies and emphasized the need for coordinated action among governments, technology developers, and society to build a fairer, more secure digital future.
