The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has launched a new initiative through its Al Ain branch to empower entrepreneurs and small enterprises operating in the retail, tourism, and agricultural sectors. The programme aims to enhance the Chamber’s direct engagement with local business owners, gather practical insights, and shape trade policies that better meet the real needs of the private sector.
This initiative highlights the Chamber’s commitment to extending its active presence throughout the emirate and supporting inclusive economic development. It is designed to build trust through face-to-face interaction and generate actionable, data-driven strategies that strengthen small business performance and scalability.
First Phase: Field Visits and Feedback
The first phase of the initiative involved on-site visits to a diverse range of enterprises across the Al Ain region. These field visits offered the Chamber a clearer view of the opportunities and challenges faced by entrepreneurs in their daily operations.
The response from business owners has been overwhelmingly positive. Many welcomed the direct approach as a meaningful effort to understand and address their needs in a practical, tangible way.
A Platform for Partnership and Growth
Shamis Ali Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, emphasised that this initiative reflects the organisation’s long-standing commitment to empowering entrepreneurs.
“At the Abu Dhabi Chamber, we see entrepreneurs and small enterprises as essential pillars of a resilient and future-ready economy,” said Al Dhaheri. “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 opportunities for long-term growth.”
Al Dhaheri also underscored the strategic role of the Al Ain branch, which he described as a key engine within the broader Chamber ecosystem, driving economic inclusion in alignment with Abu Dhabi’s growth priorities.
Local Business Highlights and Key Opportunities
During the field visits, the Chamber identified nine priority areas to enhance the local business environment in Al Ain. The visits included several well-known enterprises, such as:
- Hili Mall, hosting more than 100 diverse retail stores
- Ayla Grand Hotel, offering integrated hospitality and tourism services
- Bawadi Mall, with 270 retail outlets and various entertainment options
- Al Ain Mall, owned by the Meer Group, featuring over 300 shops
Additional stops included Al Amaan Travel and Holidays, part of the Bin Ham Group, and Deep Café, which collaborates with over 30 local partners to foster community-based commerce.
The tour also spotlighted innovative concepts like Could Be Flower & Café, blending a floral boutique with a café experience, and Al Narjes Nursery, a local hub that brings together multiple community-driven ventures. These include:
- SILO Bakery and Coffee
- POFA Café
- Al Narjes Productive Families
- Al Narjes Vegetables
- Chai Jamr
- Al Narjes Handicrafts
These enterprises demonstrate the creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit shaping Al Ain’s evolving commercial landscape.
Building a Resilient Business Ecosystem
Through this initiative, the Abu Dhabi Chamber aims to build a more resilient and inclusive business environment, empowering local entrepreneurs to grow and compete effectively in the regional market. The programme supports the emirate’s broader vision of becoming a dynamic hub for investment, innovation, and sustainable economic development.
