We at HFZA believe that a strong and healthy SME sector will play an important role in the attainment of various socio-economic development goals that the UAE Government has set in its 'Vision 2012'. SMEs contribute to output and to the creation of jobs; they are a nursery for the larger firms of the future, are the next (and importan
t) step up for expanding micro enterprises, and help in the development of appropriate technology.
Over the past years our focus was set on this important sector. Our commitment and belief in what we can achieve with SMEs has resulted in huge success of Hamriyah SME Zone, MB Zone and E-office. At present, more than 5000 companies representing 137 nations have set up facilities at HFZ, with total investments exceeding US$ 3 billion. We would like to see more small businesses setting up operations in our Free Zone to enjoy the benefits. During our recent business trips to two prosperous Indian states – Kerala and Karnataka, we invited potential investors to learn about HFZ and its special SME oriented policies. We were pleasantly surprised to see the tremendous response and level of interest we got from the business community there.
Our efforts are aimed not only on attracting new companies to the Free Zone; we are also concentrating on helping people and the planet through our CSR initiatives. HFZ, together with the Ministry of Higher Education and Research, at the Green Transportation and Logistics Summit strongly advocated the reduction of carbon footprint as a key priority for businesses and individuals to ensure sustainability for our future generations. Likewise, our recent sponsorship of disabled sports competition was driven by our commitment to support sporting excellence and to develop opportunities for all people especially those with special needs.
On a parting note, let me say we can bask in the glory of being the one of the most highly desired Free Zone in this part of the world. But let us not sit in our laurels. We still have miles to go!
Best Regards,
Rashid Al Leem
Director General