Abu Dhabi Chamber Launches Initiative To Empower Entrepreneurs And Small Enterprises In Al Ain

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry is enhancing its engagement with small enterprises through a new initiative. This effort, launched by the Chamber's Al Ain branch, focuses on retail, tourism, and agriculture sectors. The initiative aims to identify the needs of entrepreneurs and develop trade policies that support their growth. This reflects the Chamber's dedication to strengthening its presence across the emirate.

Direct interaction with business owners is a key feature of this initiative. It provides insights into the challenges and opportunities these enterprises face daily. This approach allows for data-driven decisions that can enhance support for small businesses. The initial phase included field visits to various businesses in the Al Ain region.

The initiative received positive feedback from business owners who appreciated the Chamber’s efforts. They viewed it as a significant step towards understanding and addressing their real-world needs. Shamis Ali Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Chamber, emphasized that this initiative demonstrates their commitment to empowering entrepreneurs.

Al Dhaheri stated, "At the Abu Dhabi Chamber, we see entrepreneurs and small enterprises as essential pillar of a resilient and future-ready economy. These field visits are more than a listening exercise — they are a platform for real partnership. By engaging directly with business owners, we are transforming challenges into concrete opportunities for growth, expansion, and long-term impact."

The Al Ain branch plays a crucial role within the broader Chamber ecosystem by driving inclusive economic development aligned with Abu Dhabi’s strategic priorities. The initiative aims to activate regional branches as catalysts for economic growth, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's status as a leading business hub.

The visits covered diverse local enterprises in Al Ain, showcasing various small business models in key sectors like retail, tourism, and agriculture. The tour identified nine opportunities to improve Al Ain's business environment. Notable stops included Hili Mall with over 100 retail outlets and Ayla Grand Hotel offering hospitality services.

Diverse Business Models Explored

Other visited locations were Bawadi Mall with 270 retail outlets and Al Ain Mall owned by Meer Group featuring over 300 shops. The tour also included Al Amaan Travel and Holidays from Bin Ham Group in tourism; Deep Café collaborating with over 30 local partners; Could Be Flower & Café combining café experience with a flower boutique; and Al Narjes Nursery hosting community-driven enterprises.

These enterprises include SILO Bakery and Coffee, POFA Café, Al Narjes Productive Families, Al Narjes Vegetables, Chai Jamr, and Al Narjes Handicrafts. Each contributes creatively to the local economy through collaboration and grassroots entrepreneurship.

This initiative by the Abu Dhabi Chamber seeks to build a resilient business environment while empowering entrepreneurs to achieve growth ambitions. It enhances Abu Dhabi's position as an essential hub for business and investment.

With inputs from WAM