The United Arab Emirates has announced a comprehensive soft landing package for five Indian startups. This initiative will help them expand operations in the UAE and scale their businesses globally. The selection was made under the India-UAE CEPA Council programme after a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process.
Director Ahmed Aljneibi expressed his excitement about the overwhelming response. He noted that 10,000 applications were received since the programme’s launch in June. Narrowing down to the top five winners was a challenging but rewarding task.
These startups will join an immersion programme in the UAE. They will receive extensive support to facilitate their expansion. The goal is to help them grow not just locally but on a global scale.
The soft landing package includes visas, accommodation, and transportation. Mentorship and trade licensing facilitation are also part of the deal. Opportunities to engage with investors will be provided to boost their growth.
Aljneibi hopes the startups find investment opportunities during their stay. The evaluation focused on businesses solving real-world problems relevant to the UAE and the MENA region. This ensures the selected startups can make a significant impact.
This is the first iteration of the UAE-India startup series. The council plans to continue this initiative in the future. It marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic ties.
Ajay Kabadi, Founder and CEO of DocketRun, shared his expansion plans. The company aims to work with heavy industries in the UAE, such as steel and aluminium. They plan to replicate the success benchmarks set in India.
Great results in India give them confidence for similar outcomes elsewhere. The UAE’s industrial sector presents a promising landscape. This expansion could set a precedent for other regions.
Raghavendra Meharwade, Mentor at DocketRun, highlighted the programme’s support. It enabled them to scale effectively and believe in their potential. The journey from 10,000 applicants to the top five was challenging but achievable.
Their focus is on saving lives and increasing industrial productivity. Proving use cases in the UAE at a larger scale is the next goal. The supportive environment played a crucial role in their success.
The CEPA agreement is fostering market access and investment channels. Technology exchange between India and the UAE is also being enhanced. This partnership is creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs.
The Gulf region is emerging as a global hub for advanced industries. Indian startups are keen to tap into the UAE’s innovation ecosystem. Expansion, partnerships, and capital opportunities are driving this interest.
This initiative reflects the growing role of CEPA in bilateral relations. It opens doors for more collaborations in the future. The economic partnership is set to benefit both nations significantly.
Indian entrepreneurs are increasingly looking towards the UAE for growth. The rapidly growing innovation ecosystem offers numerous advantages. This trend is expected to continue strengthening ties.
The soft landing package is a testament to the commitment of both countries. It supports startups in navigating new markets successfully. This effort paves the way for sustained economic collaboration.