Business Hub Will Help British SMEs Gain A Foothold In The Middle East

The new UK-Dubai Business Centre will officially launch in the Middle East next month.

Aimed at helping British small and medium enterprises (SMEs) find their feet in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the initiative is the latest example of the two countries' blossoming relationship.

UK minister of state for trade and investment Lord Ian Livingston has championed the growing links between Britain and the UAE and he feels this latest venture will really benefit startup firms.

"The UK-Dubai Business Centre is going to act as a place where small companies can set up and be incubated," he commented from the British Embassy in Dubai.

Not only will the centre give SMEs access to office space and facilities in the emirate, it will also enable them to gain a far better idea of business conditions in the Gulf.

This is the latest step in an ongoing campaign by the UK government to support British SMEs on foreign shores.

A second UAE-based business centre is expected to open next year in Abu Dhabi and a representative from the British Embassy insisted the centres will improve the quality and quantity of support given to UK entrepreneurs in this part of the world.

Lord Livingston recently launched the GREAT Week UAE initiative - a programme of trade missions organised by UK Trade and Investment. The event gave 40 British companies from the retail, luxury and design industries an opportunity to showcase their latest products in the Middle East.

With London and Dubai being renowned as global shopping hubs, the government feels there is further scope for the UAE and UK to work together more closely in the retail industry.

Lord Livingston said he was delighted to visit the UAE for the first time as trade and investment minister.

"British companies remain at the cutting edge of global creativity which makes us a natural partner for this vibrant trading nation. British firms are experiencing increasing global demand and want to succeed in the Gulf," he added.

Expert Opinion

For the government and many others in the business world, small and medium-sized firms are integral to driving forward improvements in the economy. As a result of this, it is welcome to see new initiatives launched to provide the support that growing businesses need in order to take advantage of the opportunities which come their way. <br/> <br/>"Much research in recent months has focused on the growth in confidence among SMEs, including how many are considering their options in terms of developing offerings or services related to markets outside of the UK. <br/> <br/>"This centre could prove pivotal at ensuring that the innovation being nurtured in the UK is making its way to relevant areas abroad and that expertise from these shores is actively promoted. <br/> <br/>"We would urge businesses considering their future strategies to seek legal advice to ensure they are on the right track to enjoy success both at home and abroad." Steven Beahan - Partner