Organised under the theme “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future” EXPO 2020 Dubai is the world’s largest gathering to date. Originally scheduled for October 2020, the event was postponed 1 year due to the coronavirus pandemic and eventually opened to the public in October 2021 and is due to run until March 2022.
Over 190 countries have participated in EXPO 2020 and the event is believed to have already led to the birth of multiple cross-country business partnerships. Dubai’s economy is on the rise and the opportunities available to business owners and investors are growing rapidly.
If you are a business owner or entrepreneur that holds a dream of setting up a business in Dubai, then this is the guide for you. Read below to find out what we think will be the top business opportunities at EXPO 2020 and the industries to consider.
Tourism
According to the Khaleej Times, Dubai recorded 6 million visitors in the first 11 months of 2021, surpassing the whole of 2020. Already one of the most influential business domains in the UAE, the travel and tourism industry growth is set to continue through to 2022, amid the final months of EXPO 2020.
There are multiple reasons to go ahead with this industry, so if you hold an idea of starting a business in Dubai, now is the time to go for it.
Hospitality
As tourism rises, so will the need for hospitality services. 2020 saw numbers drop to an all time low for the hospitality industry, but as Dubai economy continues to rebuild, the hospitality market has almost made a full recovery.
As travel restrictions continue to ease, demand due to EXPO 2020 continues to increase and vaccination programmes continue to expand, the growing need for hospitality businesses is on the up. If you’ve been considering setting up in the industry for a while, now is a better time than ever.
Food and beverage
Another industry that will see positive impacts directly related to both tourism and hospitality is the food and beverage industry. In regards to the F&B market, there’s a new kid on the block almost everyday in Dubai and it’s a trend anticipated to continue far into the future.
Plus EXPO 2020 has provided a space for visitors to eat their way around the world, without having to leave the UAE. It would come as no surprise if some of the restaurants, food trucks and pop-ups from EXPO 2020 secured more permanent homes across the city.
If you’re an Investor looking to own a slice of this industry, we don’t think you will need to look far to find an ideal opportunity.
SMEs (Small and medium-sized enterprises)
Small and medium sized enterprises can take full advantage of EXPO 2020 and the opportunities that come with it. Its an international hub for like minded entrepreneurs across the globe to come together and build strategies to enhance their brand and seek a competitive edge.
There’s an opportunity to build relationships with potential investors, clients and customers in order for SMEs to build on success and take their businesses to the next level.
If you hold the idea of starting an SME in the UAE, then take the incorporation steps now.
Real Estate
As mentioned above, Dubai Expo 2020 is well on its way to increasing a number of business entities in various industries, indirectly uplifting the real estate sector. Dubai is facing a boom in both commercial and residential real estate markets, with the industry seeing increased demand in units, space and prices.
Dubai properties are in demand from those worldwide, which turns out to be an excellent opportunity for investors who are interested in coming forward and setting up or getting involved with a real estate business in Dubai.
Construction
The networking and partnerships anticipated to take place at EXPO 2020 are expected to introduce new demand for both commercial and residential complexes. Construction businesses will have a wider range of opportunities to get involved in both during and post EXPO 2020.
The industry is already rumored to contribute billions to Dubai’s economy and landscape, so if you are interested in securing your next business venture, now would be a great time to come forward and indulge in the opportunities on offer.
You will need to possess a construction license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in order to start a construction business in Dubai.
Overall, Dubai’s economy is finally starting to rebuild after the devastating impact of the pandemic, and with the help of EXPO 2020 we’ve seen a major boost in demand for multiple industries. With no sign of slowing down, its an ideal time for business owners and investors looking to own a slice of Dubai, to come forward and benefit from the ever-growing opportunities the city has to offer.
Its important to bare in mind that there can be specific procedures to follow when starting up a business in a foreign country. To ensure a smooth and successful process, we would advise you to seek the help of a business consultant to assist you in the initial stages.
If you are interested in visiting EXPO 2020, the event will be running until March 2022 and you can buy tickets here.