In a move to deepen its engagement with entrepreneurs and small businesses, the Al Ain branch of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has launched a dedicated initiative aimed at identifying the needs and challenges of small enterprises in the retail, tourism, and agricultural sectors.
The initiative is centered on direct field engagement, enabling the Chamber to gather first-hand insights from business owners about their operational realities. By fostering closer connections and open dialogue, the Chamber aims to generate actionable, data-driven recommendations that will inform more responsive and inclusive trade policies. The first phase of the initiative involved on-the-ground visits to a wide range of local businesses throughout the Al Ain region, an approach that received strong positive feedback from the business community. This effort highlights the Chamber’s commitment to enhancing its presence across the emirate and delivering targeted support to drive business growth.
His Excellency Shamis Ali Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating: “At the Abu Dhabi Chamber, we view entrepreneurs and small enterprises as a cornerstone of a resilient, future-ready economy. These field visits go beyond listening; they are about building genuine partnerships and transforming challenges into tangible opportunities for growth and impact.”
He emphasized that this initiative reflects the Chamber’s ongoing mission to empower small business owners and enhance their role in contributing to local economic development. “By connecting directly with enterprise owners, we are shaping trade policies that are not only practical and inclusive but aligned with Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision as a leading regional hub for business and investment,” he added.
The visits spanned various well-known establishments across Al Ain, including Hili Mall, Ayla Grand Hotel, Bawadi Mall, and Al Ain Mall, each representing vital touchpoints in the retail and tourism sectors. The Chamber also visited Al Amaan Travel and Holidays, part of the Bin Ham Group, and Deep Café, a thriving local business that collaborates with over 30 regional partners.
Innovative enterprises such as Could Be Flower & Café, a hybrid floral boutique and café, and Al Narjes Nursery, a hub for grassroots entrepreneurship, were also featured in the tour. The nursery houses several community-driven businesses, including SILO Bakery and Coffee, POFA Café, Chai Jamr, and Al Narjes Handicrafts and Vegetables, all of which are contributing to Al Ain’s dynamic and diversified economic landscape.
As part of its engagement, the Chamber identified nine key opportunities to further enhance the business environment in Al Ain. These insights will guide the Chamber in crafting tailored support strategies and scalable solutions to address sector-specific challenges.
Through this initiative, the Abu Dhabi Chamber reaffirms its role in fostering an inclusive, innovative, and resilient economic ecosystem, empowering entrepreneurs to thrive while strengthening the emirate’s position as a premier destination for business and investment.
