Dubai Airport Freezone takes initiative to promote entrepreneurship

It provides a supportive, physical and intellectual environment for new business ventures that have a strong potential to grow into successful enterprises and contribute to the economic development of UAE.

"The Dubai Airport Freezone is leading the way in retaining the intellectual capital of Dubai and continues to fuel the growth of Dubai through entrepreneurship," said Mr. Nasser Al Madani, Assistant Director General of the Dubai Airport Freezone. "The Freezone, in the past 14 years has contributed to the economy of the UAE by serving as a launch pad for many international companies."

He added that the DEC would be a good opportunity for entrepreneurs to start a business with guidance and support from mentors, academicians and experts in running a startup business.

"In times of recession it is the new ventures or small businesses that lead to an upturn in the economy. He mentioned that studies have proved that a third of job creation is due to new businesses."

Addressing representatives of Business Councils at a meeting held at the Dubai Airport Freezone Head Office, Mr. Madani said, "We want some 'star' companies out of DEC - businesses that are innovative and would become successful."

He said "Research shows that over 87 percent of small businesses, that were launched through a business incubation center, were still in existence after the first five years. Thus, it is proven that working through a business incubation center improves the chances of survival of a business through the first few critical years of a business. "

Amna Lootah Executive Director Finance, Leasing and Customer Operation the Dubai Airport Freezone and the Director of the DEC Project, said, "The objective of meeting with the Business Council leaders is to introduce the project to the business councils and promote it among members of business councils in Dubai."

Ms. Lootah added,"Advantages of using the services of the Dubai Enterprise Centre include one point of contact for set up, operations and consultation, physical infrastructure and business set up, access to qualified mentoring, setting goals, milestones, business plan, evaluations, marketing, funding, and support in understanding legal jargon, and ongoing networking and training."

Advantages of being an entrepreneur, she said, "Is to make your own decisions and be your own boss, unleash your creativity and offer a product or service nobody has offered before, create jobs and contribute to the economy, and achieve financial independence."