Why more support is still needed for women-led start-ups in the UAE

Why more support is still needed for women-led start-ups in the UAE

The e-commerce boom witnessed last year is one of the factors driving positive growth for Dubai's start-up ecosystem in 2021, according to the president of TiE in the emirate.

The Dubai chapter of TiE, a global organisation which fosters entrepreneurship, was launched in 2003 and its president, Ashish Panjabi, believes several factors have come together over the years to place start-ups in a strong position moving forward.

In an interview with Arabian Business, Panjabi explained that one area which still needs support in the UAE is women entrepreneurship.

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This is one reason why TiE Dubai has brought the TiE Women global initiative, a competition for women-led start-ups, to the MENA region, said Panjabi. In the global finale, which will be held in Dubai on January 14, 26 start-ups will compete for a $100,000 price as well as mentorship support.

How has UAE's start-up ecosystem developed since TiE was launched in 2003?

I would say we were a region of consumers but are gradually moving to become one of producers and creators.

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