Author: Afreen Razak

Meet Afreen Razak, a seasoned marketing professional with a strong emphasis on content writing and a decade of experience in the industry. With a specialization in social media, brand development, and digital marketing, Afreen possesses a well-rounded skill set that drives impactful marketing strategies. With her exceptional content writing skills, Afreen crafts compelling narratives that captivate audiences and align with brand messaging. She has a keen eye for storytelling and knows how to leverage persuasive language to engage and convert target customers. Her proficiency in crafting SEO-friendly content ensures maximum visibility and organic reach.

How To Set Up A Construction Business In The UAE

Posted on May 8, 2024July 29, 2024 by Afreen Razak

With a multitude of ongoing and planned projects to boost the country’s development, and the UAE’s real estate boom, it is fertile ground for construction companies. In fact, the UAE construction market is estimated at a sizable USD 41 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach over USD 50 billion by 2029.

The UAE has an enormous number of ambitious building projects both on-ground and on the horizon, such as the MBR City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Metro expansion, Dubai Wholesale City, the Valley, and the Dubai Financial Centre expansion, amongst many others. With these projects comes a demand for competent construction companies and engineering services.

With the industry’s swift tech adoption through technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), for efficient planning, designing, and project management, there is a particular demand for construction consultancy (including both concept and design consultancy) as well.

From specialized construction activities to construction engineering services, here are the business activities that entrepreneurs can choose from, to kickstart their enterprises when they get an instant license from SPC Free Zone.

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4320.00 – Electrical, plumbing and other construction installation activities

Electrical, plumbing and other construction installation involves the behind-the-scenes tasks that make a building functional and comfortable. These specialized jobs involve putting in the systems that bring utilities like water, gas, and electricity to a space, as well as climate control and other conveniences.

Under this specific license, construction companies can install electrical systems, elevators, heat and air-conditioning systems, along with plumbing for water, gas, and sewage systems, and any other necessary functions the building or project requires.

As the fastest free zone, SPC Free Zone provides businesses with instant licenses for these construction-related activities, helping entrepreneurs navigate complex paperwork with ease.

Third-party Approval: Approval from the Sharjah Municipality/Dubai Civil Defense is required for this business activity, post obtaining your trade license.

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4320.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4320.00 is exempt from this requirement

4321.00 Electrical installation

Effective electrical installation is absolutely crucial for new constructions. Faulty wiring and electrical systems can be a major fire hazard; proper installation minimizes the risk of electrical fires, protecting the building and its occupants. A well-designed electrical system also ensures your building has enough power for proper functioning.

It’s at this stage that sustainability can come into play as well, incorporating power-saving features. Competent electrical installation will also ensure everything is up to UAE’s codes, protecting occupants and avoiding legal issues.

4321.01: Under this license falls the installation of electrical systems in all buildings and civil engineering structures. Electrical wiring and fittings, telecommunications wiring, computer network, and cable television wiring come under this category as well. Installing fiber optics such as satellite dishes, lighting systems, fire alarms, burglar alarm systems, street lighting, electrical signals, and even airport runway lighting can be carried out too.

For residential buildings, this also involves connecting electrical appliances and household equipment, including baseboard heating.

It’s noteworthy to mention that constructing communications and power transmission lines and the monitoring/maintenance of electronic security alarm systems (such as burglar and fire alarms) are prohibited under this license.

Third-party Approval: Approval from the Sharjah Municipality/Dubai Civil Defense is required for this business activity, post obtaining your trade license.

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4321.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4321.00 is exempt from this requirement

4322.00 – Plumbing, heat and air-conditioning installation

Effective plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) installations are essential for comfortable and healthy living in the UAE’s hot climate.

Remember that the UAE experiences scorching temperatures and high humidity. Proper plumbing ensures clean water delivery and proper drainage, vital for hygiene and water conservation as well. An efficient HVAC system provides cool air and ventilation, creating a comfortable living environment and ensuring energy efficiency.

With all this mind, this business license that you can obtain instantly with SPC Free Zone is evidently critical for construction firms, including duct work installation. It’s important to understand the specific licenses under this subsection that allow for different installations.

4322.01: Installation of heating systems (electric, gas, and oil), furnaces and cooling towers, and non-electric solar energy collectors fall under this subsection. Similarly, installing plumbing, sanitary equipment, gas fittings, steam piping, and sprinkler systems (fire and lawn) can be carried out, along with instaling systems required for ventilation, refrigeration, or air conditioning.

4322.02: For clients and construction companies looking to weave in sustainable practices in their buildings, this license gives you access to the installation of solar energy systems.

Note that the installation of electric baseboard heating is prohibited under this category; instead refer to license 4321.00 above for this installation.

Third-party Approval: Approval from the Sharjah Municipality/Dubai Civil Defense is required for this business activity, post obtaining your trade license.

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4322.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4322.00 is exempt from this requirement

4330.00 – Building Completion and Finishing

In the competitive construction landscape of the UAE, effective building completion and finishing hold immense importance for companies, to ensure client satisfaction, high standards, project profitability and, of course, sustainability.

Being the fastest free zone out there, SPC Free Zone can provide firms with instant business licenses, a guaranteed banking account within 3 working days, and unlimited visas, amongst many other benefits.

Third-party Approval: Approval from the Sharjah Municipality/Dubai Civil Defense is required for this business activity, post obtaining your trade license.

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4330.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4330.00 is exempt from this requirement

It’s important to note, however, that certain building completion and finishing related activities do not, by themselves, require third-party approval. These are:

4330.03 – Installation of fitted kitchens, staircases, and shop fittings
4330.04 – Installation of furniture
4330.08 – Painting of civil engineering structures
4330.09 – Installation of glass, mirrors, and other similar fixtures

Apart from the above, a range of other business licenses (4330.01, 4330.02, 4330.05 – 4330.07, 4330.10 – 4330.12) all do require third-party approval as mentioned above. So, let’s take a look at what these involve.

In terms of finishing, this includes applying plaster, stucco, or other lathing materials to the finalized construction, painting of these buildings, and a final cleaning after construction. Creative interior work includes completing ceilings, wooden wall coverings, and movable partitions (such as those available in event halls at hotels) and the installation of doors, windows, and their frames.

Constructions that require shops, mobile homes, boats, or other internal fixtures fall under this stage, as well. Other fittings include those for floors and walls (ceramic, concrete, cut stone, tiles, marble, granite, slate, wallpapers), for stoves (ceramic stove fitting parquets) and other floor coverings (wooden, carpet, linoleum, rubber or plastic terrazzo).

It’s important to note that while this list is extensive, a range of activities are not covered under this license, including road painting, installing automated and revolving doors, general interior cleaning, specialized cleaning (both interior and exterior), interior decoration design work, and the assembly of furniture that isn’t already built into the structure of the building.

7110.39 – Construction Engineering Services

Construction engineering services are the glue that holds a construction project together. They bridge the gap between design and execution, ensuring a safe, functional, and successful outcome. These specialized engineers plan, design, and oversee the entire construction process.

Utilizing construction consultancy and concept consultancy expertise, this involves project management activities related to construction, under the broad umbrella of engineering design and construction consulting services. Working hand-in-hand with engineers, construction engineering service providers act as both project managers and consultants to see a project through to its end successfully.

Third-party Approval: Approval from the Sharjah Municipality/Dubai Civil Defense is required for this business activity, post obtaining your trade license

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 7110.39 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 7110.39 is exempt from this requirement

It’s noteworthy to mention that specific engineering and construction-related activities are prohibited with this license, including test drilling in connection with mining operations, development or publishing of associated software, computer consultancy, technical testing, research and development activities, industrial design, interior decorating, and aerial photography.

This is one of numerous licenses that SPC Free Zone offers entrepreneurs instantly, coupled with a guaranteed banking account within 3 days and unlimited visas for employees, investors, and partners. The fastest free zone, SPC further offers easy payment schemes through selected banks and can fast-track your business needs with its deep experience in the UAE’s construction industry.

Did you find what you were looking for? Explore the other guides in our Activity Hub for exploring unique business ideas in Dubai and navigate the essentials of business setup with ease.

You can also calculate your business setup costs easily using our handy cost calculator and choose from our customized company setup packages to find your perfect fit.

Get your business license in the UAE today and explore a world of opportunities waiting for you.

How To Set Up An Engineering Firm In The UAE

Posted on May 8, 2024July 29, 2024 by Afreen Razak

With its unmatched skyline, landscape, and infrastructure, the UAE is on an ambitious path towards swift development. The country is investing heavily in mega-projects, and it’s safe to say that the demand for engineering services and consultancy is booming, with specific demands for civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and architectural services. The growth of the industry is also being driven by the UAE’s focus on renewable energy projects such as solar and wind power and green buildings. This has created a demand for sustainable design and construction expertise.

There are several business activities you can choose from to set up your engineering firm in the UAE. The fastest free zone, SPC Free Zone, offers instant business licenses for all of these activities. Here are the most popular business licenses within this category:

7110.00 – Architectural and engineering activities and related technical consultancy

Under the broad categories of architectural, engineering, drafting, building inspection, and surveying and mapping services, this covers numerous essential activities for engineering firms.

Note that 7110.02 and 7110.03 under this license enable subsections of these activities below, which are specified underneath.

Under architecture, engineering firms can embark upon business design and drafting, along with town and city planning and landscape architecture. This gives firms the ability to flex their creative muscles and ensure their contribution towards the developing UAE landscape is a unique one.

When it comes to safety, skimping out on surveying is never an option. From informed designed decisions to construction safety and legal compliance, this license is essential for firms conducting geophysical, geologic, and seismic surveying. Geodetic surveying (including land and boundary, hydrologic, subsurface, and both cartographic and spatial informational activities) falls under this as well.

A vast majority of engineering design activities fall under one umbrella of this license. Remember that engineering design here specifically refers to the process of applying the physical laws and principles of engineering in the design of machines, materials, instruments, structures, processes and systems.

7110.21: Under this specific license, the following design activities, along with consultation for these activities are enabled:

Machinery, industrial processes, and industrial plant activities
Civil, hydraulic, and traffic engineering work
Water management
Involvement of electrical, electronic, mining, chemical, mechanical, industrial and systems, and safety engineering
Any project management for construction-related projects

But engineering and architecture isn’t limited to these just activities.

7110.3: Going a step further, consultants with this specific license can be involved in air conditioning, refrigeration, sanitary and pollution control engineering, and acoustical engineering, amongst others. This process is necessary for most indoor spaces, creating appropriate ventilation, temperature control, appropriate disposal systems, and sound quality.

Third-party Approval: Municipality approval – Technical Department is required for this business activity, post obtaining your trade license

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 7110.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 7110.00 is exempt from this requirement

It’s important to note that specific engineering and construction-related activities are prohibited with this license, including test drilling in connection with mining operations, development or publishing of associated software, computer consultancy, technical testing, research and development activities, industrial design, interior decorating, and aerial photography.

7110.11 – Engineering consultancy (of which, 7110.13, 7110.17, 7110.18, 7110.20, 7110.2, 7110.22, 7110.24, 7110.25, 7110.26, 7110.27, 7110.28, 7110.31, 7110.32, 7110.33, 7110.34, 7110.38 , 7110.39)

Every project has its specific needs, making access to reliable and innovative engineering consultancy solutions imperative. To make sure every project under your belt is completed with efficiency, safety, and according to the UAE’s stringent regulations, an engineering firm must have access to top-notch consultancy.

Being the fastest free zone out there, SPC Free Zone can provide firms with instant business licenses under this category, a guaranteed banking account within 3 working days, and unlimited visas, amongst many other benefits.

Third-party Approval: Municipality approval – Technical Department is required for this business activityFiling of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 7110.11 is exempt from this requirementAnti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 7110.11 is exempt from this requirement

It’s important to note, however, that certain business activities require special third-party approvals based on the nature of the business activity. All of these approvals must be obtained after securing your trade license, and not before.

So, here’s a breakdown of the various types of engineering consultancy this license empowers you to conduct.

Unique Third-party Approvals: No unique third-party approvals are required for the business activities below.

7110.17 – Mass Media Engineering
7110.20 – Electronic Devices
7110.18 – Engineering in Management information systems
7110.22 – Manufacturing and Materials
7110.24 – Raw Material Installation
7110.26 – Illumination and external lighting for buildings
7110.27 – Safety And Evacuation
7110.28 – Engineering with 3D printing technology
7110.31 – Communications Engineering

Unique Third-party Approvals: Third-party approval from the Ports & Customs Department (Sharjah) is required for this business activity

7110.13 – Engineering for Ship building

Unique Third-party Approvals: Third-party approval from the Sharjah Municipality is required for these business activities

7110.25 – Interior Design Engineering
7110.32 – Civil Engineering
7110.33 – Coastal Engineering
7110.34 – Mechanical Engineering
7110.38 – Electrical Network & Distribution
7110.39 – Construction Engineering

8110.09 – General facilities and services engineering consultancy

With consultancy in general facilities and services engineering, a firm can provide expertise in planning, designing, and managing facilities and the systems that keep them operational. These consultancies can be involved in all stages of a building’s life cycle, from planning and construction to ongoing operation and maintenance.

General facilities and services engineering consultancies can be a valuable resource for businesses and organizations of all sizes. They can help ensure that facilities are planned, designed, constructed, and operated in a way that is safe, efficient, and cost-effective.

Operations and maintenance are the core of this activity. This includes developing plans and procedures for the ongoing care and maintenance of the facility—general interior cleaning, maintenance, trash disposal, guard and security, mail routing, reception, laundry, and related services.

It’s important to note that this is distinctly separate from the core business activities and primary operations. Those providing services under this business activity must be involved in a significant number of services, not just one (for example, only providing laundry services). They also cannot completely carry out the entirety of business operations or provide and manage the company’s computer systems and/or data processing facilities. The operation of correctional facilities is prohibited as well.

With SPC Free Zone’s instant business licenses, obtaining this license can be a breeze, along with guaranteed banking accounts within 3 days and unlimited visas. Here are the other approvals you need to keep in mind.

Third-party Approval: Third-party approval from the Sharjah Municipality is required for this business activity, post obtaining your trade license

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 8110.09 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 8110.09 is exempt from this requirement

How To Set Up A Recruitment Company In The UAE

Posted on May 8, 2024July 29, 2024 by Afreen Razak

A recruitment company, oftentimes called an employment agency, acts as the bridge between employers with job openings and people looking for work. Recruiters are tasked with finding qualified candidates, through their own databases, online job advertisements, or direct headhunting.

Recruiters also screen applicants, provide recruitment consulting, conduct job interviews, negotiate salaries, and help companies streamline their hiring processes. They also serve as a useful avenue for a potential employee to get their foot in the door. Such companies can also work to provide human resources and supply workers for clients’ businesses based on requirements and specific circumstances.

In a region as diverse as the UAE, economic growth and diversification has created a high demand for effective recruitment consulting. Companies have various goals, focusing on hiring either local and international talent, and are looking for recruiters who can leverage digital tools, understand recruitment trends, and conduct effective candidate matching to bring them the best talent.

For entrepreneurs looking to reap the potential of the recruitment industry in the UAE, here are three key business licenses we recommend. As the fastest free zone, SPC Free Zone provides instant licenses for all these business activities, along with a range of other benefits. Let’s unpack these.

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7810.00 – Activities of employment placement agencies

To stand out as an employment placement agency, a company needs high efficiency, expertise in several key industries, access to a wide talent pool, and competitive pricing. On the other hand, they also need to provide networking opportunities, industry knowledge, and career guidance for job seekers.

With this license in tow, companies can list employment vacancies, conduct referrals, and place applicants for employment. Remember that none of these employees can be ones who work as employees of the agency itself.

6 distinct business licenses fall under this category (7810.01 – 7810.06). Apart from personnel search, selection referral, and placement activities (both offline and online), casting agencies and bureaus can operate under this license as well. This includes theatrical casting agencies that work to find the perfect performers who can bring characters on stage to life, sourcing the best talent for each unique role. Note that agents for individual artists cannot operate under this license.

Labor recruitment brokerage office services, meanwhile, connect the supply and demand sides of the labor market, specifically for blue-collar or manual labor jobs. Beyond blue-collar jobs, regular employment brokerage office services are included here as well, encompassing everything from accounting and marketing to project management services and more.

Recruiters can also operate within the medical industry. For medical manpower supply, recruiters can match qualified medical professionals with relevant healthcare facilities. This includes everyone from doctors and nurses to therapists, physicians, and other healthcare workers.

Third-party Approval: Business activity 7810.00 is exempt from this requirement

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 7810.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 7810.00 is exempt from this requirement

7820.00 – Temporary employment agency activities

Connecting businesses to temporary help services, let’s explore what this license enables recruiters to do.

7820.01:

Here, the recruitment agency provides temporary workers to businesses for short periods of time. These workers must be employed by a temporary help service, not the recruiter themselves. An important point to note is that the temporary help service is responsible for the workers—however, they will not directly supervise them at their place of employment.

For example, a business may be in need of an accountant. In this scenario, the recruitment agency acts as a bridge between the temporary help service, where the accountant is employed, allowing the accountant to work at the business for a short period of time and provide their expertise.

7820.02:

Similar to the business activity above, on demand labor supply for temporary employment allows blue-collar workers to be assigned to business for short periods of time. As employees of the temporary help service, these individuals will work at the business for a fixed period of time, and will not be supervised by the service.

For example, a construction business may require a few more employees to fill up their crew. In this scenario, they would reach out to the recruiter, who, in turn, reaches out to the temporary help service. They provide a number of skilled construction workers to the construction business for a few months. During this time, the workers will be supervised by the construction business themselves.

7820.04:

Tadbeer Centers in the UAE are licensed agencies that help with recruiting and employing domestic workers. They connect families seeking domestic help with qualified maids, nannies, and other household staff.

They also handle visa processes for domestic workers through the Tadbeer visa program, authorized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Acting as a government-sanctioned intermediary, they also offer additional services such as time-based packages and live-in/out options for domestic workers.

Note that this license excludes the activities of agents who work with individual talent for casting. Along with this, the license for providing freelancer services (7820.04) must be specifically selected under this overall category if a recruiter wishes to do so.

Third-party Approval: Business activity 7820.00 is exempt from this requirement

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 7820.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 7820.00 is exempt from this requirement

7830.00 Other human resources provision

Companies in this category typically fill positions for the long term and may handle all the human resource tasks involved, like recruitment, benefits, and payroll.

These companies act as the legal employer (employer of record) for the workers they provide. This means they handle everything related to paying the workers, including taxes and other financial matters, as well as human resource issues. However, they don’t manage the workers directly or supervise them on the job.

It’s important to reinstate that in this capacity, the recruitment consulting agency cannot play a hand in running the client’s business themselves, nor can they provide temporary workers.

Third-party Approval: Business activity 7830.00 is exempt from this requirement

Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 7830.00 is exempt from this requirement

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 7830.00 is exempt from this requirement

With SPC Free Zone’s benefits at an entrepreneur’s fingertips, setting up a recruitment company can be a breeze. Along with a guaranteed banking account in 3 working days and unlimited visas, SPC Free Zone empowers clients to make their payments with ease, over time, through selected banks.

Did you find what you were looking for? Explore the other guides in our Activity Hub for exploring unique business ideas in Dubai and navigate the essentials of business setup with ease.

You can also calculate your business setup costs easily using our handy cost calculator and choose from our customized company setup packages to find your perfect fit.

Get your business license in the UAE today and explore a world of opportunities waiting for you.

Building High-Performance Teams For Your Business: The How-To

Posted on May 2, 2024June 19, 2024 by Afreen Razak

Success in business is often put down to a single, talented individual. But, as in many other areas of life, it’s more often the result of high-performing teams. As Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, said: “No matter how brilliant your mind or strategy, if you’re playing a solo game, you’ll always lose out to a team.”

In my view, there is a great opportunity here for business owners in the UAE and GCC. We know diverse teams perform better, and there are few workforces more diverse than those in our region. The question is: are we leveraging this advantage?

One other point I also want to stress is that while recruiting the right people is crucial, developing a high-performance team is equally about creating an environment where they can learn, grow, and improve. So, in this article, I’ll give my take on whether we can say if great teams are hired or molded.

DEFINING THE HIGH-PERFORMANCE TEAM

What constitutes a team? Fundamentally, it is the collective endeavor of individuals striving towards a common objective. A team is made up of interdependent individuals who are jointly accountable for results.

What makes it special is that a team possesses the potential to surpass the collective capabilities of its individual members. Whether we call this “team performance” or “team effectiveness,” we’re talking about how well the team fulfils its basic duties, and how it goes beyond them (such as working cross-functionally), as well as its ability to respond to changing demands– through learning and innovation.

When we look at the small startup teams –huddled around kitchen tables, or working away in garages– that later grow into tech giants, we often find a cross-functional team of developers, designers, and marketers working together seamlessly towards a shared goal. Even outside of business, we can find examples to help us think about our own organizations: in the early NASA space program Apollo 11, it took an estimated team of 400,000 people to make the moon landings possible.

In all cases, whether the team in question is large or small, what they share is that they are cohesive units that consistently exceed expectations, innovate, and adapt in the face of challenges. They exhibit exceptional levels of collaboration, communication, and accountability.

THE NEED FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE TEAMS

It’s been found that high-performing teams can lead to a 20%–25% increase in performance. In the context of the GCC region and UAE specifically, where rapid economic growth and fierce competition prevail, cultivating high-performance teams is critical for companies striving to stay ahead. Whether in finance, technology, hospitality, or any other sector, organizations that prioritize the development of such teams are better equipped to navigate uncertainties as well as capitalize on emerging opportunities.

To my mind, these are the key components of high-performance teams:

SHARED VISION AND GOALS High-performance teams are driven by a common purpose and clear, achievable objectives. Every member understands their role in contributing to the overarching mission, and they are committed to its attainment.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION Open, honest communication is the lifeblood of high-performance teams. They foster an environment where ideas flow freely, feedback is welcomed, and conflicts are addressed constructively.
COLLABORATIVE SPIRIT Collaboration is ingrained in the DNA of high-performance teams. Members leverage each other’s strengths, support one another in times of need, and celebrate collective achievements.
CONTINUOUS LEARNING High-performance teams are not complacent. They embrace a culture of continuous learning and improvement. They seek feedback, adapt to changing circumstances, and proactively identify opportunities for growth.
RESILIENCE AND AGILITY In the face of adversity, high-performance teams display resilience and agility. They remain adaptable, innovative, and unfazed by setbacks, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

BUILDING HIGH-PERFORMANCE TEAMS

A quick glance at the numbers tells you everything you need to know. Let’s start with what happens if your team isn’t high-performance. A 2024 market data report shows that around 46% of failed startups cited a lack of team competence as the primary reason. That’s almost half of failed startups claiming it all comes down to the team. Another study shows that 75% of teams struggle with dysfunctionality.

As I’ve mentioned, one area of optimism for business owners in the UAE –where teams are, by the nature of the workforce, exceedingly diverse– is that increasing diversity within teams can create a 50% enhancement in performance. This is according to a study, which also found that when team members are empowered and working well together, companies show a 6% higher net profit margin.

So, what does a high-performance team look like, and how can leaders nurture and sustain such teams? As Steve Jobs said, “The best ideas have to win, otherwise good people don’t stay.” So, trusting others, and having arguments that are focused on the task at hand and don’t get personal, is key. (Now, it’s debatable whether Jobs himself truly followed this, but you can’t argue with his success!) In short, if your teams are engaged, they will stay with your organization for the long run.

One question often debated is whether high-performance teams are hired or molded. My view is that the truth lies somewhere in between. While recruiting individuals with the right skills, mindset, and cultural fit is undoubtedly crucial, investing in their development and nurturing a conducive environment for collaboration and growth is equally essential.

To achieve this, leaders must adopt a holistic approach that combines strategic hiring with team-building initiatives. This may involve implementing rigorous recruitment processes to identify top talent, providing ongoing training and development opportunities, fostering a culture of trust and psychological safety, and establishing clear performance metrics and feedback mechanisms. Managers should aim to cultivate cohesion within teams by promoting inclusion and recognition, ensuring that all team members feel valued for their unique contributions.

So, developing cohesion within teams requires a proactive approach on the part of managers. They should recognize that social cohesion is dynamic and can evolve over time, and as such, having regular check-ins with the team is crucial to gauge feelings towards one another, and identify the need for new strategies. Plus, building trust and familiarity through team-building activities remains vital. Additionally, managers should facilitate a sense of belonging among team members by highlighting the value of their individual skills and personalities in contributing to the team’s overall success.

Building high-performing teams in the UAE requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes skillful recruitment, continuous development, and a collaborative environment. By recognizing the diverse cultural landscape of our region, I believe we can harness its unique strengths and unlock untapped potential. This means investing in team cohesion, trust-building, and inclusive practices to enhance productivity and cultivate a sense of unity and shared purpose. If you create a “best idea wins” environment, you will prove the maxim that a great team will always outperform even the most brilliant individual.

NDWBF participation to bring South Asian and Arab markets closer

Posted on April 30, 2024June 19, 2024 by Afreen Razak

Home to more than 3000 Indian companies including publishers, retailers, and other businesses, SPC Free Zone is going to lead several meetings and networking opportunities to inform ecosystem players about the burgeoning prospects for expansion and growth that lie ahead of them when they choose Sharjah and SPC Free Zone as their regional gateway. SPC Free Zone’s participation in the NDWBF 2024 aligns with its mission to serve as a global hub connecting publishers from diverse regions with the lucrative opportunities, business-friendly policies and tax incentives available in the UAE.

A regional launchpad for the Indian and global publishing industry
Through their dedicated booth at NDWBF 2024, SPC Free Zone will offer attendees a unique opportunity to explore the array of services and advantages it provides to publishers. From cost-effective licensing solutions to flexible office spaces and access to a vibrant publishing community, SPC Free Zone stands as an ideal platform for those seeking to establish or expand their presence in the competitive world of publishing.

India, with its rich literary heritage and deep-rooted interest in publishing, shares a symbiotic relationship with Sharjah, and SPC Free Zone has become a preferred choice for thousands of Indian companies taking advantage of the 1,500 business activities that the free zone offers through their fast and efficient registration.

Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone Introduces First ’Instant Licence’

Posted on April 29, 2024June 19, 2024 by Afreen Razak

Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) has unveiled its latest offering — the “Instant Licence Service”. This comprehensive instant business licence has been developed to redefine the process of establishing businesses in Sharjah, offering a swift and cost-effective solution for business owners.

The service is a first-of-its-kind, encompassing a spectrum of essential components crucial for establishing and operating businesses in Sharjah. It is designed to expedite the business setup process, empowering entrepreneurs to realise their ambitions and gain instant access to the thriving economy within the region.

The comprehensive service includes essential components such as the Business Licence, a Memorandum of Association (MOA), a Lease Agreement for securing office or business space within the SPC Free Zone, and a Share Certificate documenting ownership and 1 shareholder.

The service also includes a Certificate of Formation that validates the business entity’s existence and a Business Activity Certificate, which specifies approved business activities under the licence.

This instant licence also allows the flexibility to choose up to three licence activities from over 1,500 options spanning various industries and provisions for an unlimited number of visa quotas, streamlining the process for securing visas for key personnel within the company.

Mansour Al Hassani, Director of Publisher Services at the Sharjah Book Authority and Acting Director of SPC Free Zone, said, “We adopt a clear strategy towards supporting the business environment in Sharjah and strengthening its status as an attractive global destination for investment. This strategy is embodied in studying the challenges of entrepreneurs, investors, and project owners in the region and providing comprehensive solutions for them, enabling them to advance their businesses from establishment to the development and growth stage.”

With this new offering, SPC Free Zone continues to position itself as a pioneer in supporting business ventures, aligning with the emirate’s vision of becoming a global hub for diverse industries.

UAE Free Zone Offers Instant Business Licence to Help Entrepreneurs Set Up a Company With Visas, Office Space and More

Posted on April 29, 2024June 19, 2024 by Afreen Razak

A free zone in the UAE is offering instant business licences as it looks to help entrepreneurs start a company in the country.

Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) has unveiled its latest offering — the “Instant Licence Service”.

This comprehensive instant business licence has been developed to redefine the process of establishing businesses in Sharjah, offering a swift and cost-effective solution for business owners.

Instant business licence in the UAE

The service is a first-of-its-kind, encompassing a spectrum of essential components crucial for establishing and operating businesses in Sharjah.

It is designed to expedite the business setup process, empowering entrepreneurs to realise their ambitions and gain instant access to the thriving economy within the region.

The comprehensive service includes essential components such as:

The business licence
A Memorandum of Association (MOA)
A Lease Agreement for securing office or business space within the SPC Free Zone
A Share Certificate documenting ownership and one shareholder

This instant licence also allows the flexibility to choose up to three licence activities from more than 1,500 options spanning various industries and provisions for an unlimited number of visa quotas, streamlining the process for securing visas for key personnel within the company in the UAE.

Mansour Al Hassani, Director of Publisher Services at the Sharjah Book Authority and Acting Director of SPC Free Zone, said: “We adopt a clear strategy towards supporting the business environment in Sharjah and strengthening its status as an attractive global destination for investment.

“This strategy is embodied in studying the challenges of entrepreneurs, investors, and project owners in the region and providing comprehensive solutions for them, enabling them to advance their businesses from establishment to the development and growth stage.”

With this new offering, SPC Free Zone continues to position itself as a pioneer in supporting business ventures in the UAE, aligning with the emirate’s vision of becoming a global hub for diverse industries.

SPC Free Zone earns ‘Great Place to Work’ certification

Posted on April 29, 2024June 19, 2024 by Afreen Razak

‘Great Place to Work’, a global authority on workplace culture, established over 30 years ago, highlighted key findings that showcase several aspects contributing to SPC’s achievement. The survey conducted by “Great Place to Work” unveiled high levels of trust and satisfaction among SPC’s employees, emphasising the supportive and collaborative atmosphere cultivated by the organisation.

SPC Free Zone stands out as a workplace of excellence, evident in its impressive statistics from the certification process. Boasting 94% for workplace hospitality, 90% for leadership behaviour, 86% for innovation, and 87% for engagement, the free zone exemplifies a robust workplace culture. Further, equity scored 72%, impartiality 76%, fairness 79%, and collaboration 83%, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and teamwork.

Specifically, an overwhelming 99% of employees feel physically safe at work, and the same percentage feels welcomed upon joining. Notably, 96% attest to fair treatment regardless of gender, while an equal percentage finds management approachable. Additionally, 95% express a deep sense of pride in their colleagues’ accomplishments. These statistics collectively affirm SPC Free Zone’s dedication to nurturing an hospitable workplace environment that values diversity, safety, fairness, and pride.

Outstanding customer experience
The Great Place to Work® Trust Model™, a data-based model for quantifying employee experience, has been the global standard for over three decades. It places the employee at the heart of its model, defining a great workplace as one where employees trust their leaders, take pride in their work, and enjoy the camaraderie with their colleagues. This all translates to an optimum experience for their customers and is shown through the great reviews as well as the speed and ease of services provided by SPC Free Zone.

Home to over 1,500 publishers and investors
SPC Free Zone’s devotion to being a great workplace extends beyond its internal culture. The free zone is a hub for over 9681 businesses and investors from more than 40 countries, including over 1,500 publishers and investors, offering state-of-the-art facilities for the creation and distribution of high-quality educational and cultural content. These efforts align with the “For All Methodology”, ensuring a consistently positive experience for every employee, regardless of their role.

With the “Great Place to Work” Certification, SPC Free Zone not only affirms its dedication to creating a workplace that values its employees but also sets a benchmark for organisations aspiring to achieve excellence in workplace culture and employee satisfaction, and continues to lead the way in shaping a positive and inclusive work environment for all.

The Rise of Remote Entrepreneurship: Setting Up Your Virtual Office in the UAE

Posted on April 29, 2024July 6, 2024 by Afreen Razak

The concept of running a business remotely has gained a lot of ground in recent years. It has undergone a profound transformation, expelling the notion that operating a business within the confines of a physical space is imperative for success. In this fast-paced world, entrepreneurs have championed the opportunities that remote working has to offer, especially with the potential to access advanced technology that has profoundly changed the way businesses can be managed.

With this revolutionary change in business, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has risen as a beacon of possibilities for entrepreneurs. It is a sought-after destination to set up virtual offices due to its world-class facilities and regulations, which enable expats to establish their businesses whether they reside in the UAE or from anywhere in the world.

In this article, we will dwell further to understand the captivating world of remote entrepreneurship and the benefits of setting up a virtual office in the UAE.

Discovering the Virtual Oasis: Why Choose the UAE?

With its world-class infrastructure, state-of-the-art digital connectivity, modern amenities, and reliable resources essential for remote business operations, the UAE is an unparalleled destination for entrepreneurs. Whether it’s high-speed internet, advanced telecommunications networks, or other modern facilities, entrepreneurs can rely on the UAE’s robust infrastructure to support their virtual endeavors. The UAE’s pro-business regulatory framework also creates an environment that is favorable, enabling entrepreneurs to establish and operate efficiently without facing any serious obstacles. Overall, with its top-notch infrastructure and policies that are business-friendly, the UAE emerges as the premium choice for entrepreneurs looking to explore the virtual oasis for their remote businesses.

Beyond Borders: Effectively Managing Remote Teams

When an entrepreneur establishes a business, managing a team well is the cornerstone of success. The advent of digital communication tools has revolutionized the way teams are managed, facilitating virtual team management and expanding the talent pool on a global scale. By using these tools, entrepreneurs can remotely find skilled workers from diverse geographical locations, which promotes diversity and enriches the skills of the team employed. Using virtual collaborative tools, entrepreneurs can successfully coordinate and oversee team activities. These tools make it easy for people in different countries to communicate, work together, and be productive. This method not only makes business operations more efficient, but it also encourages an open mindset for new ideas within the team.

The Remote Revolution: Transforming Entrepreneurship

The rapid development of advanced communication technology has given rise to a new wave of entrepreneurship. Nowadays, entrepreneurs can run their businesses remotely from almost anywhere, like a cozy café nestled in the mountains or by the beach. Modern communication tools have enhanced connectivity, which makes these locations ideal flexible workspaces. In addition to the convenience, being able to work from anywhere gives entrepreneurs a better work-life balance, which lets them put their personal wellbeing first while still chasing their professional goals. Standard office spaces no longer limit entrepreneurs, allowing them to enhance their business skills in a variety of settings. This newfound freedom not only boosts productivity and creativity, but it also fosters a culture of new ideas.

From Concept to Reality: Practical Steps for Setting Up

A careful approach and detailed preparation are necessary to turn an entrepreneurial vision into a real-world reality. Entrepreneurs need to create an outline for a solid business plan that details how they will operate remotely while taking market demand, target market, and competitive landscape into account. Establishing a virtual office that offers a professional address and administrative support for remote operations is the next critical step after laying the groundwork for the business strategy. Entrepreneurs also need to make investments in applicable digital tools that facilitate communication, project management, and distant collaboration. It is essential to precisely navigate through these processes in order to achieve effective business management and the entrepreneur’s goal.

Embracing the Future: Opportunities on the Horizon

Remote entrepreneurship has been growing rapidly, with various individuals choosing to embrace the virtual lifestyle of operating a business. It goes without saying that this is here to stay. The UAE is at the forefront of creating a business ecosystem for anyone embarking on this journey. With the freedom and flexibility that come with working remotely, entrepreneurs can easily transcend geographical limitations and access markets all over the world. As technology evolves, the UAE is ready to shape the future of business by providing a dynamic environment where new ideas, imagination, and opportunities come together to help entrepreneurs succeed.

SPC Free Zone: The Game Changer for Remote Entrepreneurship

When it comes to setting up a virtual office, the SPC Free Zone stands out as a key service provider. For remote entrepreneurs who find it ideal to set up a company in Dubai for their operations or anywhere else in the UAE, SPC Free Zone plays an instrumental role in this process. Offering simplified business setup services tailored explicitly for virtual offices, the Free Zone streamlines the process for entrepreneurs, ensuring a hassle-free establishment of their presence in the UAE.

Sector Spotlight: High-Growth Industries for Entrepreneurs in the UAE

Posted on April 29, 2024July 6, 2024 by Afreen Razak

The UAE has become a hotspot for entrepreneurs in recent years. During a time where many regions are struggling to reinvent, survive, and thrive, multiple business sectors in the UAE are rapidly growing.

So, why does the UAE have ample opportunities for entrepreneurs? Its strategic location gives entrepreneurs easy access to a large and diverse market. It has a business-friendly environment, with free zones like SPC Free Zone that facilitate simplified regulations, lower taxes, and streamlined business setup services to help entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground.

The supportive ecosystem in the UAE – combined with its openness to innovation and cutting-edge ideas – makes it a great place for entrepreneurs. Let’s explore which industries are thriving and expected to expand in the coming years.

Setting up businesses in these industries requires specific business licenses that SPC Free Zone can facilitate instantly, along with unlimited visas for partners, investors, and employees, and a guaranteed banking account within three working days.

Travel and Tourism

The tourism and travel industry is a major powerhouse in the UAE. The UAE has established itself as a leading tourist destination in the Middle East, attracting millions of visitors annually. Dubai alone contributes to a majority of this, attracting 17.15 million international visitors in 2022.

This number is a major leap from the past few years, with 14.36 million visitors in 2022 and approximately 12 million visitors in 2021. It’s clear that the growth is both steady and rapid.

The UAE’s luxury hotel sector brings in a large influx of tourists. Notably, Dubai is one of the most prime locations for these establishments. A modern metropolis, Dubai draws in luxury tourism. But beyond the towering skyscrapers and glamor, the UAE also has vast deserts, pristine beaches, exciting theme parks, and a rich cultural heritage to explore.

The UAE has cemented its place as a premier business travel destination too. The ongoing expansion of tourism can also be attributed to significant investments made in infrastructure, such as airports and transportation networks. As Dubai continues to play host to major international events, it’s clear that the industry is poised for continuous growth.

Entrepreneurs looking to enter this field have a host of options to pick from. Apart from establishing hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals, entrepreneurs can provide services as travel agents or tour operators. Beyond this, travel insurance can be an incredibly lucrative field. Alternatively, entrepreneurs can consider investing in actual transportation services such as airlines, railway, or cruise lines.

Construction

With numerous ongoing and upcoming initiatives aimed at boosting development progress, the construction industry in the UAE is booming. In 2024, the construction market in the UAE was valued at a substantial USD 41 billion, projected to exceed USD 50 billion by 2029. Simply put, it’s one of the most lucrative industries in the MENA region.

Construction companies work in tandem with engineers and architects to bring a vision to life. While there are several large industry players, the growing demand for construction firms creates space for entrepreneurs to thrive in this field.

Mega projects such as BR City, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Dubai Metro expansion are driving the need for competent construction firms. On the other hand, residential housing developments that cater to both local and international investors seeking to purchase real estate are in high demand as well. From iconic monuments to housing complexes and skyscrapers, construction is always ongoing in the UAE.

The construction industry in the UAE can be broken down into:

Residential construction
Commercial construction
Industrial construction
Infrastructure construction
Energy and utilities construction

As the industry rapidly embraces technology such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) for streamlined planning, design, and project management, there is also a notable increase in demand for construction consultancy services, from conceptualization to design consultation.

Real Estate

By now, you probably have a thorough idea of how swiftly the UAE has become a global hub. As the population in the country continues to grow and attract people from around the world, the real estate market is predicted to grow exponentially.

From commercial and residential real estate to tourist accommodation, an entrepreneur in this field has many options to choose from. After all, in 2023, the real estate market saw a remarkable surge – a whopping 56% increase from 2022, reaching AED 411.74 million.

The strong sales figures indicate a high level of investor confidence in the UAE’s real estate market, particularly in Dubai. This bodes well for entrepreneurs with a strong vision who are looking for suitable investors to propel their business journey. It’s certainly the right moment to enter the UAE’s thriving real estate scene.

But it goes beyond buying and selling. The success of the market is reflected in the rental market as well. Average rental growth reached 38% in just the first half of 2023. The numbers show us that there is a growing demand in the rental sector, particularly reflecting the influx of business travelers, long-term workers, and tourists.

Healthcare

With scientific developments, telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and robotic surgery, healthcare is being revamped around the world. The UAE is leading this change globally with scientific breakthroughs.

The UAE healthcare market is projected to reach $10.7 billion by 2025. Making healthcare affordable and accessible through technological developments and investment in infrastructure is a top priority for the UAE.

The country has a large number of both public and private facilities, medical centers, and clinics. The region is constantly looking to attract higher numbers of skilled professionals for the workforce, including care workers, nurses, doctors, specialists, and technicians. Entrepreneurs looking to enter this industry will benefit from gaining a thorough understanding of its landscape.

Remember that apart from large hospitals or clinics, care facilities for the elderly and specialist clinics are potential business avenues as well. For entrepreneurs who wish to make a real difference while contributing to a futuristic field, healthcare might be the best industry to step into.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Don’t take the valuable work done by this sector for granted – it’s carried out by skilled professionals and is one of the most profitable fields for entrepreneurs in the UAE.

As urbanization continues to rise in the UAE, it’s expected that there will come a growing need for efficient cleaning services. People have begun to lead increasingly busy lives, leading to a greater appreciation for services that save time and ensure a clean living and working environment.

Together with this is the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the general population. A greater awareness of how cleanliness prevents disease spread has made it a priority for most households and corporate environments. The industry is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate of roughly 5%, driven by these diverse factors.

Entrepreneurs who want to enter the cleaning sector should note that the market is divided into distinct segments, including residential cleaning, commercial cleaning, disinfection/sanitation services, as well as specialized offerings like window, carpet, and upholstery cleaning.

Simultaneously, the demand for effective disinfecting and exterminating services is quite high. For novice entrepreneurs entering the industry, we suggest focusing on a set of particular services to specialize in and develop expertise.

These industries all hold strong potential for entrepreneurs looking to take advantage of the UAE’s business potential.

4320.00 – Electrical, plumbing and other construction installation activities

4321.00 Electrical installation

4322.00 – Plumbing, heat and air-conditioning installation

4330.00 – Building Completion and Finishing

7110.39 – Construction Engineering Services

7110.00 – Architectural and engineering activities and related technical consultancy

7110.11 – Engineering consultancy (of which, 7110.13, 7110.17, 7110.18, 7110.20, 7110.2, 7110.22, 7110.24, 7110.25, 7110.26, 7110.27, 7110.28, 7110.31, 7110.32, 7110.33, 7110.34, 7110.38 , 7110.39)

8110.09 – General facilities and services engineering consultancy

7810.00 – Activities of employment placement agencies

7820.00 – Temporary employment agency activities

7820.01:

7820.02:

7820.04:

7830.00 Other human resources provision

DEFINING THE HIGH-PERFORMANCE TEAM

THE NEED FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE TEAMS

BUILDING HIGH-PERFORMANCE TEAMS

Instant business licence in the UAE

Discovering the Virtual Oasis: Why Choose the UAE?

Beyond Borders: Effectively Managing Remote Teams

The Remote Revolution: Transforming Entrepreneurship

From Concept to Reality: Practical Steps for Setting Up

Embracing the Future: Opportunities on the Horizon

SPC Free Zone: The Game Changer for Remote Entrepreneurship

Travel and Tourism

Construction

Real Estate

Healthcare

Cleaning and Maintenance

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