A UAE Firm That Helps Emiratis Balance Work With a Dream Job
Commercialising a hobby while pursuing full-time work is becoming increasingly common among Emiratis.
A growing number of Emiratis realise that they are getting jaded in a full-time job while aspiring to be entrepreneurs in their own right. While the former is essential to pay the bills, the latter gives them something to aspire to - making their bodies tingle and igniting their souls. It is in fact, possible to strike this balance. Yes, one can transition from a mere 9-to-5 to a passionate occupation that puts money in one’s pocket and food on the table. And talking about nutriment, just ask Ali Ibrahim.
This 32-year-old’s CV indicates that he is an Air Traffic Controller. But from the age of 10, he was an enthusiastic cook with a penchant for Indian street food. Even while he pursued an educational degree aboard, putting together dishes consumed most of his spare time. So much so, that he earned the position of designated chef in his friends’ circle. But how was he to quit his specialised job at the airport for a tricky new business? The recent pandemic provided half the answer with the rest of the equation coming courtesy the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, alias Dubai SME.
Gaining membership to this unique establishment provided Ibrahim with the logistics, manpower and financial support he needed to establish a now burgeoning restaurant business. Yes, this 22-year-old firm, which was the brainchild of UAE’s top political leader - Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum – is helping future generations flourish. Indeed, the vision of the Gulf country’s once main authority has aided over 16,000 businesses take root and grow. This phenomenon is characterised by a competitive ecosystem, especially aiding start-ups across numerous sectors.
Among the many beneficiaries of this SME is Ali Al Quizi. This 47-year-old slowly transitioned from working alongside his cousins in a family business to striking out on his own. Earning a degree in Commercial Specialisation helped him realise his passion in the buying and selling business. Today, Al Quizi is the Founder and CEO of AHSKA General Trading which deals in the growing market for healthy foods and drinks. Leaving a legacy for his children and his country has been the driving force behind his enterprise, while the Dubai SME provided the fuel. It looks like a wave of young and enterprising Emiratis are ready and willing to perform the juggling act. Other local communities better beware that these ingenious and passionate men don’t cut into your business.
