International Franchise Exhibition Attracts Government Participation

The Ministry of Economy, represented by the National Program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and the Saud Bin Saqr Foundation for Youth Project Development will be participating in the sixth edition of the International Franchise Exhibition (IFE). Organized by Abu Dhabi Chamber, the exhibition is taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) between 16-17 October, 2018.

In addition to the government entities, the exhibition is expected to attract a number of top specialists and commerce experts, major brands and trademarks, and more than 3,000 local, regional and international visitors interested in commercial opportunities in the UAE.

H.E. Mohamed Helal Al-Muhairi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, said: “The participation of various government entities in this year’s edition of the International Franchise Exhibition is a reflection of the event’s strategic importance in the region. The exhibition forms a part of Abu Dhabi’s continuous efforts to attract local and international companies and provide them with an interactive platform that supports the expansion of their business and investments.”

“The UAE’s achievements in the field of franchising have undoubtedly contributed to the rapid growth of investments and partnerships in the sector as well as the increasing interest and high levels of participation in the International Franchise Exhibition,” added H.E. Al-Muhairi.

Dr. Adeeb Al-Afifi, Director of the National Program for SMEs within the Ministry of Economy, said: “Our participation in the International Franchise Exhibition supports our strategic objective of empowering Emirati entrepreneurs who own or manage SMEs to grow their businesses and expand across the region and the world. The high profile nature of the exhibition, the training and workshops available, and the participation of international brands and experts makes it an ideal environment for Emirati entrepreneurs to promote their businesses, enhance their understanding of foreign markets and invest in new and exciting opportunities around the world.”

H.E. Abdulla Al Darmaki, Chief Executive Officer of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: “Khalifa Fund is participating in the International Franchise Exhibition as part of its commitment towards supporting entrepreneurship and encouraging young Emiratis to establish their own projects. The exhibition is an opportunity for the projects funded and supported by the Fund to be promoted across regional and global levels–enabling SMEs to achieve sustainable growth and contribute to the achievement of the objectives of economic diversification in the UAE.”

Youssef Mohammed Ismail, Head of the Supreme Committee of the Saud Bin Saqr Foundation, said: “Participating in International Franchise Exhibition is a way for us to support and encourage Emirati entrepreneurs who are working to build businesses and establish themselves within the private sector. The exhibition also provides young entrepreneurs with insights on international best practices and opportunities to collaborate or develop partnerships with leading brands across a variety of industries. Our presence at IFE affirms our commitment to supporting the franchise sector and contributing to sustainable economic development in the UAE.”

The sixth edition of the IFE provides an opportunity for attendees to learn about a wide range of local and international companies and engage with experts from around the world, including companies operating in the UAE across a diverse range of fields including: tourism, hospitality, trade, health, education, food and beverage, retail, and more.

A series of exclusive educational workshops for visitors will be held on the sidelines of the IFE on October 16-17, giving participants the opportunity to learn from and engage with some of the sectors most influential leaders and experts. The workshops are designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed within the world of franchising.

The event’s management also provides a suitable business environment for holding meetings and sessions, providing spaces for exhibitors, visitors and delegates to meet and conduct business meetings.