< Previous50 Grow from Dubai Supplement – August 2023 E T HER Offering a simplified rental and retail system, tenants of ETHER bene t from 0% capital costs and no extra expenses on sta ng, utilities or stationery. Growing businesses can also make use of additional bene ts such as logistical, operational, and marketing infrastructures, allowing for peace of mind as they develop. With a fully digitalised booking plat- form through the website – etherbycs. com, local entrepreneurs can gain access to the booming Abu Dhabi market in seconds. ETHER also entirely takes away the stress and hassle of setting up a physical location, further cutting down the costs associated with any start-up. ETHER’s flexible contracts come complete with various services and facil- ities and require no capital investments from retailers. O ering a ordable three, six and 12-month contracts, along with versatile and elegantly furnished lots that vary in size from 4 sqm to 56 sqm, and o er a choice of shelves, a depart- ment or a three-wall boutique, ETHER gives brands of all sizes a chance to turn their ideas into reality and put their products in front of a brand-new inter- national audience. How will concepts such as ETHER make UAE more attractive for start-ups and even locally based companies? ETHER's pioneering concept of provid- ing short-term, a ordable rental spaces for artisans, local, and international brands in a vibrant retail space can signi cantly enhance the appeal of the UAE for start-ups and locally based companies. By reducing barriers to entry with reasonably priced rental space and shared resources, entrepre- neurs can test their ideas without the burden of high upfront costs. Addition- ally, the exposure to a diverse customer base, networking opportunities, and access to international trends o ered by ETHER can help businesses grow and ourish. Moreover, the platform focus on unique and individual products creates a captivating shopping experi- ence that attracts more customers, making the UAE an enticing destination for those seeking a modern and trail-blazing marketplace. ETHER by Cloud Spaces: The co-retail concept store empowers start-ups to foray into Abu Dhabi’s vibrant retail sector Malak Smejkalova, General Manager of ETHER by Cloud Spaces, highlights the company's unwavering commitment to providing exceptional support for businesses Malak Smejkalova, General Manager of ETHER by Cloud Spaces Presenting everything from home- grown fashion labels to interna- tional labels,ETHER celebrates originality and champions the most bold and disruptive names in technology, fash- ion, home, art, lifestyle, NFT, beauty, accessories, and food. ETHER provides a shared rental space solution that accommodates numerous brands and retailers in Abu Dhabi. This innovative approach reduces upfront expenses, enabling businesses to establish a presence in Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, the largest shopping destination in Yas Island o ering an exceptional shopping, dining, and entertainment experience for both residents and tourists in a uni ed setting. Providing regional businesses with a cutting-edge, stylish, and welcoming co-retail space, ETHER is giving back to the local community and supporting local and international brands who are ‘ready to go retail’ and ‘own’ their own ideas, experiences, presence, space and, most importantly, their future. What are you providing that is unique and distinctive? By bringing together a diverse array of brands and artisans, our co-retail concept o ers a truly exceptional opportunity for artisans and brands from various back- grounds to engage in mutual learning, share techniques, and collaborate on innovative products or designs. This not only enhances the shopping experience, but also promotes cultural understanding and appreciation. Our concept empha- sises the value of authenticity and crafts- manship by showcasing both local arti- sans and international brands, thus fostering sustainability. This approach appeals to customers who value hand- made, artisanal products and seek genu- ine experiences. Furthermore, going beyond traditional shopping, our concept creates immersive spaces where custom- ers can directly engage with artisans, participate in workshops, and witness the creative process rst-hand. This trans- forms the shopping experience into something truly extraordinary and completely di erent to a typical shopping experience. What level of exibility is provided in terms of booking physical spaces through your o cial website? Workspace Solutionscloudspaces.ae LOCATIONS Abu Dhabi: Yas Mall - Yas Island ADGM (Al Sarab Tower) - Al Maryah Island The WTC Mall - Al Danah Dubai: Circle Mall - Jumerah Village Circle FLEXIBLE WORKSPACE SOLUTIONS Designed for dynamic startups, freelancers, businesses, or established enterprises! Private & Semi Private ofces Dedicated Desks Meeting Rooms Photo & Recording Studios Day Passes Event Spaces Speciality Café52Grow from Dubai Supplement – August 2023 LE T ' S WORK Dubai's Ejari and licensing services, along with long-term office space solutions, have gained popularity among businesses. These offerings provide simplicity and ease for businesses to establish their pres- ence in Dubai. The services o er stream- lined processes for acquiring licenses and registering with Ejari, making it conven- ient for businesses. And as Dubai contin- ues to attract local and international companies, the demand for these services is expected to increase. Sustainability has always been at the core of Let’s Work. How are coworking spaces inherently sustainable? And how do you leverage existing assets to maximise their utilisation? Let’s Work aims to align with Dubai's future sustainability ambitions as our proximi- ty-based workspaces reduce commuting times and CO2 emissions. Our environ- mentally conscious spaces prioritise energy e ciency and eco-friendly mate- rials. And our collaborations with sustain- able partners ensures responsible prac- tices throughout the network. How has Dubai been fostering digital nomads and freelancers and where do you feel that your business will help further foster this segment? Dubai has created a conducive environment for digital nomads and freelancers and Let's Work provides exible and well-equipped office spaces for this segment. We offer a ordable and exible membership options cater to the needs of freelancers and networking and collaboration opportuni- ties are encouraged among members. What are some plans in pipeline that will further contribute to Dubai’s growth and expansion? We plan to expand workspace locations across Dubai as well as enhance services and amenities to meet evolving needs. We are also collaborating with local businesses for exclu- sive bene ts and implement sustainability initiatives within workspaces. We foster a strong community through networking events and workshops and leverage technol- ogy for seamless experiences. By adapting to changing work trends, Let’s Work contributes to Dubai's growth and expansion by provid- ing a conducive work environment. Let’s Work: Turbocharging Dubai’s remote working sector As the leaders in global remote working, the Let’s Work app has changed the landscape of the way we work in Dubai as users can book workspaces on-demand, offering exibility and convenience. It also provides access to co-working spaces and business centres across the city; Omar AlMheiri and Hamza Khan, co-founders of Let’s Work, highlight how the app also optimises resource utilisation and fosters collaboration Omar AlMheiri (left) and Hamza Khan, co-founders of Let’s Work With its o erings of being exible, professional, a ordable, how does Let’s Work contribute to Dubai’s growth speci cally? Let's Work plays a vital role in driving Dubai's growth by attracting a diverse range of remote workers, freelancers, and entre- preneurs to the emirate. This influx of talent enriches the local workforce and fuels innovation. Let's Work further supports the growth of start-ups and small businesses by o ering cost-e ective and exible work- space solutions that meet their unique needs. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship, Let's Work enhances Dubai's reputation as a leading hub for forward-thinking busi- nesses. Moreover, Let's Work contributes to the diversification of the economy by promoting remote and flexible work arrangements, aligning with the evolving needs and preferences of the workforce. How conducive was Dubai for this remote working concept? Dubai provides a conducive environment for remote working with its robust infra- structure and business-friendly atmos- phere. Let's Work has capitalised on Dubai's conducive environment by o ering exible, professional, and affordable workspace solutions. Post the pandemic, Let's Work has experienced upward growth in Dubai due to increased acceptance and adoption of remote working. The platform has expanded its network of partner locations, providing users with a wide range of options. It has adapted to changing needs and maintained its position as a leading remote working platform in Dubai. You are also providing simplicity and ease for businesses by providing Ejari and licensing as well as long-term o ce space for companies. How popular is this o ering? Workspace Solutions54 Grow from Dubai Supplement – August 2023 LE T ' S WORK Abdulaziz Fahad Al Jouf is a Saudi entre- preneur and the founder and CEO of PayTabs RAKBANK Since PayTabs' inception, e-commerce has evolved tremendously. With this evolution, our primary objective is to level the playing eld and create opportunities for micro, macro, and every other merchant worldwide to connect with consumers across the globe seamlessly. This ambitious vision necessitates leveraging all available digital assets and technologies and integrating ourselves into retailers' strategies. This transition is crucial because we rmly believe that the differentiation between "online" and "o ine" will eventually be diluted as more merchants embrace the mainstream payment ecosystem. How has PayTabs fostered local expertise to propel forward? PayTabs has dedicated itself to fostering local expertise in Dubai, leveraging its profound understanding of the MEASA region's market dynamics. This underlying knowledge enables us to customize our services according to the unique requirements and preferences of customers in Dubai. By nurturing a competent workforce, actively engaging with local talent, and forming key partnerships with local stakeholders and businesses, we have established ourselves as a prominent participant in the ntech industry within the region. Our commitment to empowering professionals and supporting their growth further enriches Dubai's ntech ecosystem and strengthens our grasp of the local market. What is the key factor that underscores the importance of corporate identity for foreign companies operating in Dubai? Dubai is a city that embraces innovation and the latest trends. To succeed in this market, foreign companies must showcase their unique value proposition, innovation, and adaptability. A strong corporate identity is essential for foreign companies operating in Dubai to differentiate themselves, build trust, connect with the local audience, attract talent, form partnerships, and leverage government support. It plays a crucial role in establishing a competitive advantage and achieving long-term success in the dynamic business environment of Dubai. PayTabs: A ground- breaking payment processing company PayTabs is an online mobile, social, and next-generation payment processing powerhouse for merchants and super merchants, founded in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia PayTabs innovative full-stack payment platform offers secure and user-friendly digital payments, social commerce, and payment orchestration, allowing merchants from all sizes and industries across the MENA region to expand their reach and online presence. PayTabs focuses on innovative technology, exceptional customer service, and e cient security measures to provide businesses with customised payment processes. With global scalability, PayTabs aims to be a trusted partner in helping businesses succeed in the digital marketplace by having the blue sky vision to make digital payments simple, secure, and accessible for all. What is unique in the Dubai ecosystem that empowers PayTabs to become the industry leader in payment infrastructure? The city’s ecosystem has played a vital role in PayTabs’ growth in the Emirates. Its regulatory framework, favouring business interests and its transformative digital economy, has granted us exceptional access to sophisticated technologies that promote innovation. Most importantly, strategic collaborations with key business hubs, merchants, and partners in Dubai have reinforced our credibility and expanded our market share What makes Dubai conducive for payment solutions business? Businesses can thrive in this global financial hub because of a strong technological foundation, simplified regulatory processes, and an efficient compliance framework. Dubai's diverse and affluent consumer base and its position as a major tourist destination creates a pulsating marketplace for digital payment solutions like no other. The cityscape’s transformation initiatives and strategic connectivity further enhance its appeal, making Dubai a prime destination for businesses in the payment industry. What has been the most notable development in Dubai's payment industry? Dubai has been a front runner in embracing digital payment methods, aiming to create a cashless society to enhance convenience for residents and visitors. NFC technology and contactless payments have gained momentum and popularity in Dubai. Consumers can use their smartphones or contactless-enabled cards to make payments at various merchants, including retail stores, restaurants, and public transportation. A decade ago, would you have thought it possible to pay with the tap of your Apple Watch or your smile? What are your projections for new merchant additions in the current scal and the near future? Banking for start-upsInnovation Meets Integration Re-imagining Work, Live, and Play in Dubai's No.1 Digital Free Zone 800 FZ1 Built for Business, Designed for Life.Self Storage Mini Warehousing E-commerce Fulfillment International Shipping Local Moving UAE'S MOST LOVED STORAGE PROVIDER! 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