Golden visas and tax perks: UAE’s formula for business success

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position as one of the fastest-growing entrepreneurial hubs in the GCC, with government-backed policies creating an attractive landscape for startups, according to Khaleej Times.

Tax incentives, free zones, 100 per cent foreign ownership, and initiatives such as Golden visas have helped foster a dynamic business environment, providing a strong foundation for both local and international entrepreneurs.

“The UAE’s infrastructure, advanced technology, and efficient logistics networks create an ideal environment for startups,” said Maryam Hassani, acting head of Trends & Innovation at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA). She emphasised that these efforts not only facilitate the startup process but also draw crucial foreign investment.

One prominent initiative driving entrepreneurship is the ECA’s focus on early childhood development (ECD) startups. Working closely with government agencies, the authority helps startups tailor their solutions to fit the UAE market.

Among its key programmes is the Anjal Z Program, launched in 2020 and backed by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). The initiative attracts global ECD startups, helping them integrate their solutions within Abu Dhabi.

“The Anjal Z Program is designed to bridge critical gaps in early childhood development while also contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification,” Hassani said. “The programme has supported more than 45 early and growth-stage startups, helping them establish a presence in the UAE.”

Another notable effort is the Abu Dhabi Youth Challenge (ADYC), a 54-hour boot camp aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs aged 18 to 26. It provides young innovators with mentorship, networking opportunities, and hands-on experience by partnering with startups from the Anjal Z Program.

Revamped in 2024 under the World Early Childhood Development (WED) Movement, the expanded ADYC+ initiative now welcomes professionals, academics, and researchers. “The redesigned ADYC+ attracted 270 applicants, from which 150 were selected,” Hassani said. “By the end of the first day, 58 innovative ideas were pitched, leading to the formation of 18 promising teams.”

With government-backed funding, strategic collaborations, and tailored support, the UAE continues to position itself as a global hub for startups. “By supporting global startups from funding to localisation, the government enables knowledge transfer, job creation, and enhanced competitiveness,” Hassani noted.

Through initiatives like these, the UAE demonstrates how effective policy-making can transform the entrepreneurial ecosystem while driving innovation in key sectors such as early childhood development.