Artificial intelligence (AI) remains one of the biggest opportunities for entrepreneurs in the UAE. However, business leaders say founders should also explore sectors such as food security, manufacturing, logistics and regulatory compliance as the country’s startup ecosystem continues to mature.
The recommendations came during the RESET & RISE – The Road Ahead for Business event, organised by Ajman Free Zone. Industry executives said the UAE continues to attract entrepreneurs because of its efficient business setup process, business-friendly regulations and strategic access to regional markets.
AI continues to drive startup growth
George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone, said AI is transforming industries and creating new business opportunities.
“I think AI is a huge opportunity at the moment,” Hojeige said. “Businesses across industries are now looking at how they can integrate artificial intelligence into their operations.”
He added that entrepreneurs are increasingly launching businesses that address supply chain challenges while demand continues to grow for AI-powered services, data centres and e-commerce.
According to Hojeige, manufacturing, transport, logistics, oil and gas services and food security are also attracting strong investor interest.
Food security offers long-term investment potential
While AI dominated the discussion, Zubair Ul Islam, Director of Sales at Ajman Free Zone Authority, believes agriculture presents one of the UAE’s biggest untapped opportunities.
“It’s an underserved territory in this country,” Islam said, referring to agriculture and food production.
He noted that investment in indoor farming and locally produced food continues to increase as the UAE strengthens its food security strategy.
Islam added that if he were investing today, he would prioritise food security alongside AI.
He also highlighted manufacturing as another high-growth sector. In particular, he pointed to India’s tier-two and tier-three manufacturing hubs as potential partners for businesses expanding into the UAE.
Compliance becomes a business priority
Business leaders also warned that compliance has become essential for companies operating in the UAE.
Huzefa Vorajee, Founder and CEO of Evolve Accounting Group, said VAT and corporate tax have changed how businesses approach finance and governance.
“It’s no longer something that you can prove as a back office function. It’s something that’s front and centre of your business,” Vorajee said.
He added that investors increasingly favour jurisdictions with strong regulatory frameworks, not simply those offering lower taxes.
Entrepreneurs should plan beyond company formation
Hojeige said many first-time founders assume obtaining a trade licence is enough to launch a business.
Instead, he advised entrepreneurs to address accounting, VAT registration, payroll, HR, insurance and compliance from the beginning. Outsourcing these functions, he said, allows founders to focus on business growth.
Meanwhile, Sharjeel Akhtar, General Manager at A&A Associates, encouraged entrepreneurs to think beyond incorporation. He said succession planning, corporate structuring and asset protection should form part of every long-term business strategy.
Free zones continue to attract startups
The panel also highlighted why UAE free zones remain a preferred choice for startups and SMEs.
Hojeige said entrepreneurs continue to choose free zones because they offer faster licensing, greater flexibility and simpler setup requirements.
Islam added that different free zones now specialise in specific industries. As a result, manufacturers, healthcare companies and technology firms increasingly select jurisdictions based on their operational needs rather than cost alone.
Women entrepreneurs are building the future
Sanaa Ouahmane, business leader and author, said women entrepreneurs are entering the UAE market with greater confidence and stronger ambitions.
“Women are no more asking for a seat at the table; they are building the table,” Ouahmane said.
She encouraged aspiring founders to solve real business problems and build credibility, noting that investors often back resilient entrepreneurs as much as promising ideas.
