A closer look at Abu Dhabi’s efforts to empower entrepreneurs in Al Dhafra

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, through its Al Dhafra branch, hosted the Al Marfa Entrepreneurs Forum for Leadership and Empowerment, bringing together entrepreneurs, government entities, and business support organizations to strengthen the local entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Held at the Majlis of Mohammed Al Falahi Al Yasi in Al Marfa, the forum attracted broad participation from stakeholders across Abu Dhabi’s economic landscape, including government agencies, entrepreneurship support organizations, and business councils.

Participating entities included the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, and the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, alongside Abu Dhabi Chamber affiliates such as the Abu Dhabi Youth Business Council, the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, the Emirates Franchise Association, and the Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award. Representatives from the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Al Dhafra Region Municipality and the Family Development Foundation – Al Marfa also attended.

The event was designed to provide aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners with direct access to government entities, financial institutions, and industry experts. Organizers said the initiative aims to foster innovation, improve the business environment, and create new opportunities for collaboration that can support the growth of projects across the Al Dhafra region.

The forum featured presentations highlighting financing solutions, support programs, and initiatives available to small, medium-sized, and emerging enterprises. Attendees also heard success stories from entrepreneurs in the region, offering practical insights into building and scaling businesses.

Networking sessions provided participants with opportunities to connect directly with representatives from organizations supporting the business ecosystem, helping entrepreneurs explore partnerships, access resources, and identify growth pathways.

The Abu Dhabi Chamber said the forum forms part of its broader efforts to promote entrepreneurship and support national business owners by creating platforms for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises to the economic and social development of the Al Dhafra region.

During the event, participating organizations showcased a range of services, incentives, training programs, and advisory support designed to help entrepreneurs launch and expand their businesses. The forum also highlighted integrated government services and unified platforms to streamline procedures and improve access to business support.

The event concluded with a renewed emphasis on the role of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development across Abu Dhabi.