Dubai is offering support for businesses, with a wave of new initiatives designed to ease costs, boost visibility and help companies grow
From rent relief to free retail space in some of the busiest destinations in Dubai and lots more. Here are some of the key initiatives you should know about.
Dubai South introduces flexible support package for SMEs
Businesses based in Dubai South are getting a helping hand.
The master development has rolled out a new support package for SMEs operating within its Business Park, designed to offer both immediate relief and long-term stability.
Key benefits include rent-free incentives tied to contract renewals, more flexible payment deferrals, and the waiver of minor admin penalties. For eligible businesses, rental rates will also remain unchanged during the support period.
The move is all about strengthening Dubai’s SME ecosystem, with Dubai South continuing to position itself as a hub for growing companies thanks to its flexible office solutions and strategic location.
Free retail space for small businesses across major UAE destinations
Small businesses are being given an opportunity to step into some of the UAE’s biggest retail spaces – for free.
The Ma’an initiative, launched by Majid Al Futtaim in partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, is focused on giving homegrown brands real exposure.
Selected businesses will be offered free space across major high-footfall locations, including Mall of the Emirates and THAT Concept Store. There’s also added visibility through platforms like VOX Cinemas, Carrefour and the SHARE loyalty programme.
To apply, businesses need a valid UAE trade licence and must have been operating for at least 12 months.
It’s a big step in removing barriers to entry and helping local brands get in front of a much wider audience.
Dhs1 billion support package announced to boost Dubai’s economy
Dubai has also unveiled a major Dhs1 billion package aimed at supporting businesses across the emirate.
Announced by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the package includes a range of measures designed to ease financial pressure and improve liquidity.
Among the key highlights:
- Deferral of select government and tourism fees for three months
- Hotels can postpone 100% of sales fees and Tourism Dirham payments
- Customs grace periods extended from 30 to 90 days
- Simplified residency processes for businesses and investors
The wider plan also includes initiatives like the Virtual Warehouses scheme, which simplifies the temporary import of goods, and continued investment in workforce wellbeing and Emirati employment.
It all forms part of Dubai’s long-term vision to remain one of the world’s most business-friendly cities.
Get 20% off Uber rides to support local businesses
Uber UAE has launched a new initiative encouraging residents and visitors to explore and support local businesses, with 20% off rides to a list of community hotspots.
From April 3 to April 7, you can use promo codes to unlock discounted rides:
- SUPPORTLOCALDXB for Dubai
- SUPPORTLOCALAD for Abu Dhabi
In Dubai, the offer applies to trips heading to spots like:
- Alserkal Avenue
- Al Seef
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
- Springs Souk
- Marsa Boulevard
- The Square Nad Al Sheba Gardens
While in Abu Dhabi, destinations include:
By lowering the cost of getting there, the initiative aims to drive more footfall to the kinds of small businesses and cultural hubs that shape everyday life in the UAE.
There’s also an added bonus for drivers – Uber matched in-app tips of Dhs10 or more during the campaign, effectively boosting driver earnings at no extra cost to riders.
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