Abu Dhabi SME Export Program boosts local businesses in global markets

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has seen significant progress with its SME Export Matching Programme, a key initiative launched in November 2023 aimed at enhancing the export capabilities of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in Abu Dhabi. The programme has already achieved notable milestones in its first cycle, with fourteen participating SMEs forecasting a 44% increase in their exports in 2024, compared to the previous year. These companies anticipate a total export value of AED 387 million.

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Since its launch, the programme has successfully connected businesses with over 800 strategic stakeholders, facilitating access to potential international customers, distributors, and business partners. The programme’s impact is evident, as SMEs have expanded their reach into vital international markets, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt, the United States, India, and Canada. The participating businesses represent a diverse range of sectors, such as engineering, construction, food and agriTech, pharmaceuticals, and plastics, underlining the variety of industries contributing to Abu Dhabi's export success.

The initiative supports both new and established exporters by offering tailored services designed to optimise their export strategies. This includes raising awareness of the support available within Abu Dhabi’s business ecosystem, ensuring that SMEs have access to resources that help them expand globally. The programme also helps businesses align with international trade standards and explore opportunities arising from new trade agreements, including Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs).

For new exporters, the programme provides essential training sessions on market research, export documentation, and trade mapping, all of which are vital for successful international expansion. More seasoned exporters benefit from International Strategy Workshops (ISWs), where they receive one-on-one mentorship tailored to their specific business needs. These workshops help refine strategies, ensuring SMEs can make the most of global opportunities.

The programme’s most recent workshop, “Empowering SMEs for International Success,” provided valuable insights from key government partners and introduced participants to the various export support services offered in Abu Dhabi. Among the speakers were representatives from the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Abu Dhabi Customs, Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the Emirates Development Bank (EDB), and the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX).

SMEs play a vital role in Abu Dhabi’s economy, making up over 90% of licensed businesses, employing nearly half of the workforce, and contributing 42.8% to the emirate’s non-oil GDP. As the emirate accelerates its efforts towards economic diversification and focuses on sustainability and innovation, SMEs are poised to play an even larger role in expanding Abu Dhabi’s global economic footprint.

Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, Executive Director of the SMEs Sector at ADDED, emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating, “We are committed to accelerating Abu Dhabi’s growth by supporting ambitious businesses with the necessary tools and opportunities for international expansion. The SME Export Matching Programme helps establish a robust, sustainable presence in global markets, boosting the competitiveness of our businesses and enhancing their international reach.”

Khalil Fadel Al Mansoori, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), added, “By enabling local businesses to expand internationally through strategic partnerships and initiatives, we strengthen their competitiveness on the global stage. This supports the nation’s economic prosperity and reinforces the UAE’s standing in the international market.”

Over the last decade, Abu Dhabi’s non-oil economy has grown by 59%, creating a dynamic and supportive environment for local businesses. This growth has been driven by cutting-edge infrastructure, including advancements in digital transformation, logistics, and smart technologies, providing SMEs with the tools they need to scale effectively. Additionally, the emirate has seen a 109% increase in skilled talent, further bolstering its competitive edge in global markets.

With these developments, Abu Dhabi has positioned itself as a leading hub for innovation and cross-border growth, making it an attractive destination for SMEs looking to diversify and expand internationally. The SME Export Matching Programme continues to be a cornerstone of this strategy, offering vital support to businesses in Abu Dhabi as they explore global opportunities.