UAE participates in the inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting in South Africa

H.E. Al Saleh highlights national initiatives and projects developed by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism to strengthen the country’s position as a leading destination for SMEs

The UAE participated in the inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting, held in Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa. The event was jointly organized by the UN-affiliated International Trade Centre (ITC) and South Africa’s Department of Small Business Development. The UAE delegation was represented by H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism.

The UAE’s participation aimed to strengthen collaboration and knowledge exchange in key areas such as entrepreneurship, SMEs, the green economy, finance, and digital transformation. This aligns with the country’s broader vision to enhance international partnerships and promote joint efforts with regional and global stakeholders to support SME growth, address sector challenges, and advance long-term sustainability.

In his speech, H.E. Abdullah Al Saleh stated: “Today, SMEs form the cornerstone of global economic growth, representing over 90 percent of companies worldwide. They play a vital role in creating job opportunities across all segments of society, driving economic diversification, and fostering innovation and creativity.”

Furthermore, His Excellency emphasized that the meeting represents a new milestone in advancing discussions around economic policies and initiatives that support the growth and prosperity of SMEs. He noted the importance of developing effective solutions to the challenges SMEs face - particularly in accessing the financing required to scale their operations and ensure long-term sustainability. Addressing these issues, he said, calls for collective efforts to design practical, enabling frameworks that empower SMEs to grow and compete in both local and global markets.

H.E. Al Saleh added: “Guided by the vision of its wise leadership, the UAE has prioritised the development of a legislative and regulatory framework for SMEs in line with global best practices. Today, SMEs make up 95 per cent of businesses in the UAE and account for nearly 86 per cent of private sector employment. The UAE is home to more than 50 public and private incubators and accelerators, providing vital support to startups and entrepreneurs. Notably, the country ranked first globally for the fourth consecutive year in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2024/2025 report, reaffirming its position as the world’s leading destination for entrepreneurship and SME activity among the 56 economies assessed.

His Excellency also highlighted the funding opportunities and enablers offered by the public and private sectors. They also provide SMEs across the UAE with access to training and financing.

Additionally, the Undersecretary reviewed national initiatives and projects developed by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism to enhance the competitiveness of the entrepreneurship environment and strengthen the UAE’s position as a leading destination for SMEs. Among these initiatives are the launch of the national entrepreneurship framework, the ‘Riyada’ Fund, and The Entrepreneurial Nation digital platform, which has played a key role in connecting entrepreneurs with funding and training opportunities. In addition, the share of SMEs in federal government procurement tenders and contracts has been increased to 10 per cent, alongside the provision of technical and training support to enhance their ability to compete in such tenders.

The inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting attracted over 700 participants, including ministers, officials, private sector leaders, and entrepreneurs representing more than 60 countries. The discussions focused on ways to support and empower SMEs on a global scale.

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