Dubai SME 100 - 2015/2016

SPECIAL REPORT MARCH 17, 2016 KT CONNECT

UAE’s Choice 2016

DuBAI SME: CHEERIng AnD RECOgnISIng THE SECTOR Dubai SME has strengthened the sector and given the industry the platform to network and perform better

S

mall and Medium Enterprises are the backbones of economies worldwide. In Dubai, the sector makes a definitive contribution to the economy and employment. Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEO, Dubai SME, the agency of the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai, mandated to develop the SME sector, talks about the role of the organisation, potential of the sector and more, in an exclusive interview. Excerpts: Tell us about the inspiration behind Dubai SMe100.

In 2009, His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued a law expanding the mandate of Dubai SME to cover the whole of SME sector. Earlier, Dubai SME used to focus on supporting local Emirati entrepreneurs only. With its expanded mandate, Dubai SME started looking at new initiatives that can serve the SME sector on a whole and Dubai SME100 is one among such initiatives.

Launched under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of

Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEO, Dubai SME

EDITORIAL

Editor: Vaman Vassudev Kamat | Supplements Editor: Suchitra Steven Samuel Sub-Editor: Sadiq Shaban | Reporters: Farhana Chowdhury, Suneeti Ahuja-Kohli PRODUCTION Designers: Mohammad Ejaz Khan, Sidharthan | Imaging: Venugopal Prabhu ADVERTISING Director Advertising: Haroon Qureshi | Senior Advertising Manager (Supplements): Philip Smith Assistant Advertisement Manager (Supplements): Bilal Saeed Dubai HeaD Office: P.O. Box 11243, Tel: +971 4 3383535, Fax: +971 4 3383345/46, E-mail: supplements@khaleejtimes.com abu DHabi: P.O. Box 3082, Tel: +971 2 6337666, Fax: +971 2 6351122, E-mail: ktimesad@eim.ae Website: www.khaleejtimes.com

KT Connect

A Publication of GALADARI PRINTING & PUbLIShING LLC SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

3

DUBAI SME 100

Launched under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Dubai SME100 identifies top-performing SMEs in the city to help groom them into bigger and more sustainable enterprises, and to support them in their growth into larger and internationally oriented companies.

Dubai, Dubai SME100 identifies topperforming SMEs in the city to help groom them into bigger and more sustainable enterprises, and to support them in their growth into larger and internationally oriented companies. More than just a ranking, the objective of Dubai SME 100 is to inspire willing and able SMEs that have the potential to be world-class enterprises, to invest in innovation and people, and to sustain growth. The ranking also serves as a tool to help SMEs identify capability gaps for improvement.

The ultimate outcome is for Dubai to have more growth-oriented, innovative, capable, and sustainable enterprises that can fly the UAE flag high.

Since its launch in 2011, how has it helped transform the SME sector in the emirate?

During its last three cycles, Dubai SME100 initiative has been able to identify the top performing SMEs in Dubai. Of the top 100 identified in 2015, 88 have achieved double-digit revenue growth over the last three years, compared to 81 such companies in the 2013 ranking, and 53 in the 2011 cycle.

Companies that have achieved over 20 per cent growth in revenues are classified as high-growth companies. In 2015, 69 among the top 100 fell in this category, which is an increase of 28 per cent over 54

4

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

such companies in the 2013 ranking.

Comparatively, this was a 32 per cent increase from 41 companies in 2011. Net profits of 78 companies in the 2015 list saw double-digit growth in the last three years, compared to 71 companies in the 2013 list and 48 in 2011.

What factors are taken into consideration when selecting top-performing SMEs for the ranking?

The Dubai SME100 ranking identifies and ranks companies based on a set of financial and non-financial performance parameters and then helps ranked companies acquire new capabilities and develop the business.

The financial parameters look at the growth of the company in sales and in net profit, whereas the non-financial parameters look at the company in terms of innovation, human capital development, international orientation, corporate governance, and corporate social responsibility.

To date, how many SMEs are present in Dubai? How many were registered in 2015 alone? Which sectors do they specialise in?

SMEs account for 95 per cent of the establishments in Dubai. Micro firms account for 72 per cent of the overall business count in Dubai, followed by small and medium firms accounting for 18 per cent and 5 per cent of the business count,

DUBAI SME 100

respectively. In terms of a sector-wise split of the number of establishments, the trading sector accounts for a majority of SMEs in Dubai at 67 per cent, followed by the services sector, which has 35 per cent, and manufacturing sector has the rest at 8 per cent.

Number of total applicants for the third cycle of the SME100 (2015) reached 4,532, an increase of 49 per cent compared to the 3,041 companies registered in the second cycle. The companies registered in 2015 had a total revenue estimated at Dh69.5 billion and a workforce of around 144,000. (See Overall Applications table for more details.)

Tell us about the rise in female entrepreneurs in Dubai.

There is a definite increase in the number of women setting up SMEs in the UAE. In recent years, we’ve seen greater interest from female entrepreneurs especially in the

The Dubai SME100 ranking identifies and ranks companies based on a set of financial and non-financial performance parameters and then helps ranked companies to acquire new capabilities and develop the business.

SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

5

n illio .5 b 9 6 Dh

Overall Applications on illi b .3 53 Dh 5 ,57 93

Number of total applicants for the third cycle of the SME100 (2015) reached 4,532, an increase of 49 per cent compared to the 3,041 companies registered in the second cycle. The companies registered in 2015 had a total revenue estimated at Dh69.5 billion and a workforce of around 144,000.

28,298

Total Applications

1,092

41 3,0

fields of design as well as food and beverage. In 2015, 285 female entrepreneurs registered through the Intelaq programme for licensing homebased businesses.

In your opinion, how have SMEs contributed to the economy? Please support your answer with latest statistics.

Almost 95 per cent of the establishments in Dubai are SMEs, 72 per cent among them being micro enterprises. According to the State of SME Report of Dubai SME, which surveyed 500 SMEs and evaluated 300 for financial performance, the total contribution of SMEs to Dubai's gross domestic product (GDP) stands at 40 per cent. Sector-wise, trading SMEs account for 47 per cent of the total GDP contribution with services and manufacturing following with 41 per cent and 13 per cent, respectively.

The survey also shows a high export orientation among local SMEs as 51 per cent of them draw some part of their revenues from regional and international markets. Moreover, 60 per cent of Dubai SMEs have more than 20 per cent of their sales revenues provided by export markets.

What is the Dubai SME five-year Strategic Plan? Please elaborate. What has been done to date in line with the objective?

Our SME2021 plan focuses on three main areas: ❖

6

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

Increase entrepreneurial activity in the economy

❖ ❖

Cycle 3

Total Employment

4,532

Cycle 2

Dh14.7 billion

Cycle 1

Total Revenues

3 ,08 144

Enhance the competitiveness of Dubai’s SMEs (through innovation, productivity and quality) Integrate SMEs with high-growth economic opportunities in Dubai

We’ve undertaken several research studies and all confirmed that SMEs here are low on productivity. Therefore, we’ve set certain benchmarks to increase their competitiveness and encourage them to adopt certain best practices that will help them achieve higher productivity. Of course, productivity ultimately leads to an increase in capacity, expansion across new markets and higher revenues.

We’ve grouped our strategic initiatives under four main dimensions that cover Entrepreneurship Promotion, Ecosystem Development (policy and regulation), Business Development Programmes, and Research and Statistics.

Anything else you would like to add?

Dubai SME will formulate appropriate strategies and initiatives over the coming years to improve the SME sector and hopefully, increase their value-addition to the Dubai economy in tandem with the growth of the Dubai economy.

To build and enhance the environment for SME development, all stakeholders in the economic and business development of the country should work with the Department of Economic Development and Dubai SME in making the city the number one place in the world to start, grow and expand their SMEs into global enterprises.

2015 DUBAI SME 100 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

40.

41.

42.

43.

44.

45.

46.

47.

48.

49.

50.

Dimara International i-General Trading Dubai Desert Extreme LLC Bin Touq Fire and Safety Paramount Computer Systems FZ LLC Sea of Incense and Perfume SamTech Middle East GreenParking RSA Logistics INDEX Holding Appetite Catering Services LLC Levtech Consulting DMCC Beta Information Technology Co. Quick Registration German Imaging Technologies (GIT) Dubai LLC Barrel Energy L.L.C Pure Logic Group NIMAI MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS entourage marketing & events COFFEE PLANET LLC Emitech Technical Services LLC DNS GENERAL TRADING LLC SPF Realty MASSAED Installation of Elevators and Escalators ixtel technologies Biz Group Easy lease Motorcycle Rental LLC Nets International Communication LLC Corporate Business Services Pasta Regina LLC Orient Planet DC Pro Engineering Centena Group Home Grown Nursery LOGISTICS COMPANY LIMITED WMS Metal Industries AKM FOODSTUFF TRADING LLC PAPERS WORLDWIDE LIMITED LINKVIVA FZ LLC Infotouch FZ LLC Socialize BIN TOUQ TRANSPORT LLC Radiant Engineering Mediatech FZ-LLC MAClines General Trading LLC Diva Modeling & Events FZ LLC TED COMPUTER SYSTEMS LLC. Merlin Digital TechKnowledge FZ LLC Zaabeel Studio

51.

52.

53.

54.

55.

56.

57.

58.

59.

60.

61.

62.

63.

64.

65.

66.

67.

68.

69.

70.

71.

72.

73.

74.

75.

76.

77.

78.

79.

80.

81.

82.

83.

84.

85.

86.

87.

88.

89.

90.

91.

92.

93.

94.

95.

96.

97.

98.

99.

100.

The Box Self Storage Services LLC Edelman DABO AL SHAMI SUGAR & GRAINS PACKING Dubai Technologies OP3 Design LLC PTL SOLAR FZ LLC MODEC BUILDING MATERIALS TRADING LLC Blossom Nursery Constromech FZCO Timelapse Middle East Kings Palace Real Estate PJSC Help AG Middle East FZ LLC RELIABLE INTERNATIONAL COMPANY L.L.C Centre for Musical Arts Codic Studios Nahar Building Materials LLC (Nahar Group) Careem Networks FZ LLC Aspen Engineering Services LLC SIMPLE OFFICE Alkawthar Bottled Drinking Water The Links Group Ltd. LM TRDG LLC InternsME CHILLY WILLY TRADING CO LLC Spectrum UAE Limited DOCTOR VENDING HTP Global Technologies LLC Sanipex FZE Topnet Distribution FZCO PetroGas Piping Raw Coffee Company Universal Soil Testing Lab Al Sharqi Shipping Co LLC DEC Dynamic Engineering Consultants Eton Institute FZ LLC ADONIS DECOR LLC Tablix Technology LLC MD Interior Design Carfax Private Tutors souqalmal.com BARCODE GULF LLC TOURDUBAI FLOATING RESTAURANT LLC HIMATRIX MIDDLE EAST FZCO Iqraa Arabic Langauge Center Global Trust Enterprises petit bout chou/potentiel nursery Insignia FZ LLC Duplays Sports Services DMCC IBC Cafe2go SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

7

DUBAI SME 100 SamTech Middle East

Integrating best practices in business SamTech Middle East has been recognised

by Dubai SME awards for three consecutive cycles for its socially responsible and a fast growing business model

SamTech is an active member of the ‘Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network’ that serves as the focal point for the business community to share and exchange best practices in implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

With 13 years of experience as a systems integrator, particularly in vehicle tracking, SamTech Middle East is a leader in IoT (Internet of Things), M2M (machine-tomachine) and smart location-based solutions. SamTech designs, develops and deploys integrated wireless communication systems and on-board diagnostics to manage mobile and fixed assets.

SamTech Middle East’s long history in the tracking and monitoring space has been a solid foundation for IoT deployments.

The company's innovative solutions and applications are conceived, planned and developed in Dubai utilising state-of-the-art hardware and applications in partnership with the leading vendors in the IoT industry.

SamTech continuously strives to bring groundbreaking end-to-end turnkey solutions to meet client requirements, which enable smarter decision making, allow operational efficiency and productivity, and enhance the quality of services offered by enterprises and government institutions throughout the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

SamTech holds the expertise and know-how to offer state-of-the-art solutions with a focus on serving clients by leveraging its diverse pool of technical resources and rich

Samir I. Abdul Hadi

SamTech’s innovative solutions and applications are conceived, planned and developed in Dubai utilising stateof-the-art hardware and applications in partnership with the leading vendors in the IoT industry.

practices in implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). This emphasises SamTech’s commitment to provide solutions that create smart and sustainable communities.

One of SamTech’s innovative smart city solutions, showcased in CISCO’s IoT World Forum 2015 last December, was the Smart Waste Management Solution that provides the fill-level of waste containers and generates collection plans with route optimisation for a cleaner environment.

Major milestones

ecosystem of partners. Some of the key technology partnerships signed last year were with Thuraya Telecommunications as the first Satellite M2M service provider and with Microsoft as Application Developer.

SamTech is an active member of the ‘Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network’ that serves as the focal point for the business community to share and exchange best

In November 2015, SamTech was ranked seventh among the best 100 Small and Medium Enterprises in Dubai (Dubai SMEs). SamTech has been awarded twice consecutively with the Dubai Chamber (CSR Label) in 2013 and 2014. In 2012, it ranked 19th among the fastest growing companies in the Middle East, according to Arabia 500 and the AllWorld Network organisation.

SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

9

DUBAI SME 100

FortIFyIng BAck-EnD SyStEMS For BEttEr pErForMAncE With state-of-the-art Information technology and physical Security Solutions, tED computer Systems helps companies evolve and strengthen their businesses

Managed Services, we provide Multi-Brand Annual Maintenance Contracts, Network Operations Centre (NOC) and Automated Managed Services, Resident Engineers, on-call support and so on.

Suneeti Ahuja-Kohli TED Computer Systems offers an array of products and services in Information Technology and Physical Security Solutions, for which it has been duly recognised at the Dubai SME100 this year.

The company supports more than 700 organisations in the government and private sector with its state-of-the-art technical support and products. In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times, Nitin Vangani, Group Business Head — Sales, talks about the business, reasons behind its spectacular growth, expansion plans and more. Excerpts: Give us an overview of the company.

The TED Computer Systems is an Information Technology and Physical Security Solutions provider that focuses on empowering businesses with cutting-edge technology solutions. Since 2012, TED Systems has been at the forefront of providing the latest technology solutions to the region. With strong presence in the UAE, TED supports more than 700 organisations in the government, financial services, corporate, hospitality and oil and gas sectors. We have local offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. With a customer-centric approach and state-of-the-art technical support, we always strive to exceed customer expectations.

We provide ICT Integration and Physical Security and Surveillance solutions that facilitate evolution of businesses.

Over the years, we have been honoured with prestigious awards, namely Dubai SME100 2015, Ministry of Public Works, etc.

As a company we have grown significantly on two fronts: 1. Transformation from an IT System integrator into a complete IT solutions company with in-house resources of over 30 technical teams.

2. IT solutions company that has formed major divisions internally in a short span

10

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

Nitin Vangani, Group Business Head – Sales of time as part of growth viz., IT infrastructure, security solutions, datacentre solutions, and AV solutions.

Now we are expanding our area of focus to Enterprise Consulting, Product Distribution, Security products (Surveillance and Power Solutions) and UPS. Tell us about your portfolio of products and services?

We offer passive networking, active networking, data centre solutions (servers, storage, DR, consolidation, virtualisation, cloud), software solutions (virtualisation, OS, utilities, development tools, database, CRM and BI solutions), user experience computing (workstations, laptops, desktops, mobile computing, VDI/VCE, kiosks and digital signage), and imaging and printing solutions (desktop to multi-function printing, managed printing, scanning and document management solutions).

TED System’s experienced team is capable of delivering high-end and advanced physical security and surveillance solutions that include CCTV, access control, perimeter security and other related technologies.

On top of these solutions, we have built our service capabilities and team for supporting installation and warranty, professional services and managed services.

In professional services, we offer capacity assessment, audit, data centre build, and migration services such as OS migration, exchange migration, DB migration, physical to virtual platform migration etc. Under

Which industries do you cater to?

Information Technology is a backbone and an integral part of any business or organisation. Therefore, we cater to all industry verticals where they need any solution or service related to IT and physical security and surveillance solution.

A few sectors where we have exhibited our strength and capability in delivering tailor-made solutions include hospitality, education, government and public industries.

ICT is a dynamic sector, which sometimes makes it difficult for companies to stay abreast with the latest advances in technology. What challenges does this pose for your business?

Availability of right skills for the rapidly changing technology and trends in the ICT industry are the two major challenges for us. We overcome the challenge with the help of our strong in-house technical team.

The strength and asset of TED is our team of technologically advanced and enthusiastic team who is passionate enough in the latest technology and customer care.

We always focus on developing the internal skills of our team with the help of our partners by arranging training and workshops for all the team members.

How many branches do you have and where?

We operate from two locations in the UAE: our corporate office in Dubai and another fully functional office is in Abu Dhabi.

What are your plans for this year?

Indeed, our main plan and vision is to expand the verticals we serve, expand our client portfolio and position us among the top system integrators in the UAE. We are working on the latest technology partnerships and adding more skills in our team to server our clients better.

We have started a new business unit for enterprise consulting, which will be focusing on ERP solutions, advanced business processing, HR solutions, industry specific consulting such as retail, FMCG, etc.

DUBAI SME 100 Dimara International

BESpokE HoSpItAlIty ConCEptS

the standard of products and services at Dimara is inspired by genuine hospitality

Mohamed Sharif Al Zarooni, CEO

Dimara believes in the philosophy of direct sales and has a goal-oriented approach in this regard.

It focuses on specific market segments whose needs match its offerings.

Dimara International is a multifaceted organisation that develops and manufactures hospitality products and solutions.

The group includes companies that offer procurement/turnkey projects division for new hotels, introduce designer fashion brands into hospitality concepts through Dimara galerie, and a fully-owned manufacturing facility — Dimara Industries.

The Dimara group of companies develop, design, produce, consult and implement tailor-made solutions with extraordinary service, strategy and innovation.

While the scope of business is always expanding at Dimara, its commitment and service to clients remain unchanged. A proud member of the Sheikh Mohammed Establishment, and an ISO-certified organisation, Dimara International is recognised as the best commercial business in the emirate and recently received a Corporate

the company is geared to expand its product offerings and services through global strategic alliances to serve its clients better.

Social Responsibility (CSR) award from Dubai Chamber.

Dimara plans to continue its growth and maintain its status as the leading provider and consultant for body care amenities, bed and bath linen, and soft furnishings accessories in the Middle East.

The company is geared to expand its product offerings and services through global strategic alliances to serve its clients better.

Dimara’s standards of products and services are inspired by genuine hospitality and achieved by its committed business partners and

dedicated team members.

To create bespoke hospitality concepts, the company is expected to keep the focus on refined luxury, pure ingredients and natural methods. Dimara’s mission is delivered through its core values that include: • • • •

Exceptional service Honesty and transparency Innovative passion Professionalism and proficiency

Dimara believes in the philosophy of direct sales and has a goaloriented approach in this regard. It focuses on specific market segments whose needs match its offerings. Focusing on targeted segments has been key to Dimara’s success and may continue as its central strategy for years to come.

With more than 50 employees and over 12,000 square metres of warehousing facility, the company offers a complete service solution.

SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

11

DUBAI SME 100 Centre for Musical Arts

Hit high notes in life through music The Centre for Musical Arts helps students create a musical bond, which further shapes their character Practice is the key for healthy musical growth, but it can be a bit of a mystery for most parents. The Centre for Musical Arts (CMA) has observed that a large percentage of questions that parents ask are centred on practice.

Here are some essential points that apply to any instrument or skill:

Tutors at CMA teach children to practice efficiently and effectively.

They know the pleasure that stems from a wellplayed piece, which the student can be proud of, and are aware of the effort put in to reach those goals.

• Practice is essential to growth.

• Practice is an art, requiring effort and imagination.

• Practice is a daily habit. Shorter, frequent sessions are more beneficial than one longer and less focused session.

• Practice needs positivity. It is important to establish positive energy and attitude toward practice as a family to give students maximum support and encouragement.

• Practice should be planned and part of a regular routine. Most of us have packed schedules, but if practice time is not scheduled in, it will most likely fall through the cracks.

Tutors at CMA teach children to practice efficiently and effectively.

They know the pleasure that stems from a well-played piece, which the student can be proud of, and are aware of the effort put in to reach those goals. CMA works closely with families to create a musical bond with their children and shape his or her character, promoting a sense of value, commitment and care to detail.

CMA was established in 2006

Tala Badri DipABRSM, BMus, BA

and provides high quality musical experiences for the young and the young at heart. Their vast offerings of music lessons and affiliated programmes have attracted an

ever-growing number of students in Dubai and surrounding areas. By investing into its facilities, including a state-of-the-art performance centre in 2015, CMA has attracted some of the world’s finest music instructors, who are keen on imparting their skills to the community in a world-class environment.

Besides lessons within CMA, affiliated schools in Dubai use CMA as a platform for instrumental lessons within school hours — this encompasses private tuition, small group teaching and ensembles.

If you feel learning and practicing an instrument will assist your child in becoming a well-rounded and determined individual, visit www.cmadubai.com.

SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

13

adoniS DECOR L.L.C

TURNKEY INTERIOR CONTRACTING INTERIOR DESIGNING & DECORATION MEP CONTRACTING EXHIBITION STANDS WOOD JOINERY WORKS GRC, GRG & GRP WORKS FIRE ALARM & FIRE FIGHTING GLASS & ALUMINIUM WORKS STEEL CONTRACTING

Your key to interior world ...

P.O.Box : 9535, Tel. : 04 347 8008, Fax : 04 347 8007, email : adonis@eim.ae, www.adonisdecor.com

adoniS DECOR L.L.C

We take great pleasure to introduce our company and certainly looking forward to develop a prosperous business relation hereafter. We will be honored if ?86C% 2% #!!#A;7%8;& ;# >CA6C &#7 8% ;<C /C3" of Interior Designing and Decoration (Interior & Exterior).

Adonis 'écor LLC is one of the innovative Interior

& Exterior Designing and Architectural company in the United Arab Emirates. It’s relatively self-sustained infrastructure encompassing the creative team of technical experts, art consultants and project managers* are ready to offer a unique combination of commercial experience, high quality service and after sales support.

The people in *!"$47 '%#"9 ,,( havC an insight understanding of Designs, Styles and Aesthetics. We can interpret our client’s requirements and frame their ideas into the most creative perspective in a realistic way to AC-C$; ;<C8A 8%"868"7238;& 2%" C%<2%$C ;<C8A >#$823 >;2;7>)

Our Mission

Maintaining long term relationship with our customers and caring for our clients as well as our well wishers with constructive ideas and thoughts.

Our Vision

Giving wings to the dreams of interior and exterior ideas and work towards a maintenance free world.

MUNEER.S.ARACKAL MD & CEO

Together with well equipped work shop, skilled craftsmen and other high skilled workers we under take many projects at the same time. Our company has the capability of providing the entire Interior and Exterior architectural needs from design, conceptualization, calculation 2%" site execution

CERTIFICATES & 80153 AWARDS M5)** Customer Delight Award 2015 Adonis decor also received M5)** Award 2015, B#A demonstrat8%? extraordinary passion,commitment and overall excellence in caring for the customer’s needs.

.28 (;964:4#-6;7 1C <26C 8%;CA%2;8#%23 $CA;8B8$2;8#% B#A 97238;& +2%2?C'C%; 5&>;C' ISO 9001 : 20/+ and :%68A#%'C%;23 +2%2?C'C%; >&>;C' ISO 14001 : 2004 from reputed auditing agency BAS ( Bureau of Assessment Services.) @7A 4C23;< ( 52BC;& ( :%68A#%'C%; =#38$& 045:. 8> $CA;8B8C" 2> !CA 8%;CA%2;8#%23 >;2%"2A" #B @$$7!2;8#%23 4C23;< 2%" 52BC;& ,>>C>>'C%; 5CA8C> (OHSAS18001 : 2007).

2015

Ranked

13

We are…

What we do…

❖

A system integrator for Information and Communication Technology Systems

❖

Consultation and design of ICT system architecture

❖

Specialise in providing ICT infrastructure enterprise solutions

❖

Project management, implementation, and systems integration

❖

Offer distinguished quality assurance and accumulated experience

❖

Maintenance of contracts with SLA metrics to ensure customer’s business continuity

We provide multi-technology solutions for enterprise customers, who seek successful integration of complex systems.

www.betait.net

Tel +971 4 706 1111

Fax +971 4 706 1112

sales@betait.net

DUBAI SME 100

We will continue our journey and fulfil our mission, and like I always say, this is only the beginning.

We will keep working together as a close-knit team to ensure and achieve absolute customer satisfaction.

— Wadih Haddad

Wadih Haddad, Founder

The Box

Redefining the world of storage The Box Self Storage has diversified its growth platform to openly embrace and incubate start-up companies

18

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

When Wadih Haddad set up The Box Self Storage from his apartment in 2006, the world of self-storage was in its infancy in the Middle East.

In the following years, after weathering economic challenges, his idea of providing people and small businesses a safe place for their belongings proved to be inspirational.

It was the company’s clear focus on the customer and a wider self-storage boom that helped build a cult that covered all corners of the Middle East — from the UAE to Qatar, and even Lebanon.

Today, The Box is a DubaiSME 100 company, having responded to the fundamental consumer need with a disruptive, innovative retail business model. Its organic model enabled the discovery of various other opportunities too such as Black Box, which provides secure document storage and records management.

The Box has diversified its growth platform to openly embrace and incubate start-up companies. Wadih, who was selected by

Endeavor, an organisation that identifies and supports entrepreneurs with the greatest potential for economic and social impact in their region, also garnered several awards over the years and frequently exercises his expertise by offering entrepreneurs bespoke business mentoring.

He is involved in the Entrepreneurs’ Organisation Programme, which acts as a catalyst enabling first-stage entrepreneurs to catapult their businesses to the next level.

His passion is palpable and infectious, as he says: “We will continue our journey and fulfil our mission, and like I always say, this is only the beginning. We will keep working together as a close-knit team to ensure and achieve absolute

customer satisfaction.”

Wadih's success is attributed to his humble and inquisitive investment in his team and work environment.

He believes in people above profits. The Box team members are empowered to take decisions and encouraged not to fear making mistakes. This philosophy builds the confidence in each and every employee and is multiplied across the organisation resulting in a business filled with intrapreneurs.

With regards to growth, The Box believes that its strong foothold in the UAE is a stepping-stone to extend its reach in the GCC and Levant region through franchises and/or investing in our own infrastructure.

Being a DubaiSME 100 company, The Box will continue to strive and outgrow its position in the ranks across all five categories — people development, international orientation, growth performance, corporate governance and financial soundness.

DUBAI SME 100 Links Group

Doing business in the UAE

Links Group gives foreign-owned organisations control over their business in the region

John Martin St.Valery, Founding Partner

Julie Irving, Partner

Established in 2002, Links Group partners, protects and enables foreign companies to enter the market while safeguarding their status as business owners.

Combining business acumen with robust legal counsel, the team ensures clients are protected at all times, and that they can build a business which they own and control.

As a corporate nominee sponsor, Links Group offers beneficial ownership protection to foreign companies and advises corporations and individuals on how best to structure and restructure a legal commercial presence in the UAE and Qatar, including trade licensing and visa-related services. The company is also associated with the Foreign Investment Office of the Dubai Economic Department.

Specifically, Links Group’s corporate nominee partnership structure, which was pioneered by the team 14 years ago, allows foreign-owned companies to work with a highly structured board as their local partner. This structure provides foreign businesses with a corporate entity to act as their 51 per cent nominee, local partner, shareholder or sponsor, thereby minimising the risks associated with appointing an unknown individual nominee, while at the same time satisfying corporate governance requirements.

Links Group’s operations are governed by a stringent corporate

governance framework covering an ethics policy, a remuneration and fiscal committee and external audits, both financial and legal.

Independent non-executive directors bring probity and independence to the board, while all executive board members are required to take external training to be certified as competent board directors. This framework ensures that all stakeholders of Links Group business — staff, shareholders, clients and partners — operate in a fully transparent manner.

In 2015, Links Group ranked first in the area of corporate governance and 71st overall on the Dubai SME 100 List. Making to the list for the third consecutive cycle, Links Group attributes this achievement to its clear growth strategy to attract foreign investment to both the UAE and Qatar.

Participating companies were ranked based on a combination of financial and non-financial themes across six categories — business growth, financial soundness, innovation, human capital development, international orientation and corporate governance.

Much can be accredited to the Dubai Government’s strategy to diversify the national economy by 2021 and encourage growth in the non-oil sectors. Although the UAE Government remains committed to supporting and developing local enterprise, it also recognises the importance of bringing in external manpower and expertise to achieve ongoing, sustainable growth.

Representing a wide range of clients, both in terms of where the companies are headquartered and also in terms of their sector of business, Links Group’s mission is simple: to partner, protect and enable companies to have beneficial ownership and control over their business in the Gulf region, and to be recognised by clients, potential clients, employees and competitors as best in its field.

SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

21

DUBAI SME 100

PAthBrEAkIng APProAch throUgh InnovAtIvE chAnnElS the group ranked first in corporate governance and Innovation under class A of Dubai SME100 awards

In order to keep up with the dynamic technological scenario, we have centered our ideologies on innovation and have focused on emerging advancements in technology. our entire team is inspired to strive harder to create value through innovation.

— Sanjay Raghunath

22

With three decades of timehonoured tradition with excellence, the diverse Centena Group proved to be among Dubai’s Top 100 SMEs at the Dubai One Hundred SME, 2015. Pioneers in the fields of science and technology in exploring and identifying advanced applications in the emirates, the Group ranked 33rd overall among the Dubai’s Top 100 SMEs. Centena Group ranks among the top five corporates in Human Capital Development, International Orientation, and Corporate Social Responsibility under Class A of the Dubai SME 100. It has achieved this feat and several other laurels under the visionary stewardship and highly proficient management of Sanjay Raghunath, its Chairman and MD. This unique distinction has listed Centena Group twice in Dubai SME 100 companies in 2013 and 2015.

“It is a very proud moment for the Centena Group to be recognised as one of Dubai’s leading SMEs. It encourages us to move ahead in our journey towards excellence, reiterating our beliefs to contribute more meaningfully and improving the quality of life of the community we serve. In order to keep up with the dynamic technological scenario, we have centred our ideologies on innovation and have focused on emerging advancements in technology. Our entire team is inspired to strive harder to create value through innovation,” said Raghunath.

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

Sanjay Raghunath, Chairman and MD

centena group has a strong foothold in various industries through its group of companies, namely Maritronics, tensosys, Emphor, Screencheck, and AtlAB. Dubai-based Centena Group has been offering the latest, state-ofthe-art world-class business solutions to specialised industries including Maritime, Life and Analytical Science Applications, Industrial Automation, Identification and Electronic Security, and Educational Training Systems for over three decades.

An idea to explore an innovative product and unique channel in technology gave birth to the pathbreaking approach of diversifying its distribution business into manufacturing.

Centana Group has successfully expanded its realms and is establishing itself as an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) for a number of products.

“Electronics has been the hardware of global technological

advancement in the second half of last century and continues to be so.

Centena’s growth strategy is based on the furtherance in various sectors and has helped us demonstrate prolific growth in the presence of regional and global challenges,” added Raghunath. The electronics industry hasn't been affected much due to the global downturn and is rapidly evolving.

Understanding this trend and significance, the brand has successfully translated the use of technology to another thriving industry in the region — education.

Today, Centena Group of companies has successfully established itself as a reputed and trusted name in various industries.

It has a strong foothold through its following companies, namely Maritronics, Tensosys, Emphor, ScreenCheck, and ATLAB. In sync with the UAE’s Vision 2021 to offer a first-rate education system, ATLAB is empowering one of the growing economies with a prospective talent pool of top-notch professionals. ATLAB specialises in designing and delivering innovative technology-based and hands-on learning solutions.

ATLAB also helps equip training facilities for vocational schools, technical universities and various industries by providing a practical experience for operators by emulating solutions to prepare and meet the challenges of the new workplace.

The trend of giving back to the society has gained momentum in the region and Centena Group is actively involved in offering services to the less fortunate, particularly in the field of education through its CSR initiative, Centena Foundation.

Centena firmly believes that innovative education is the cornerstone of building brighter futures and stronger communities.

For more information, visit www.centena.biz

DUBAI SME 100 Pure Logic Group

Offering consulting advice since 2008 Pure Logic Group has delivered projects in the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Libya and Europe in a diverse range of sectors

Our company vision is to offer the highest level of professional consulting advice available in the region.

Our staff endeavours to deliver on promises and commitments and always go above and beyond what is required.

— Samuel Lehain CEO

Pure Logic Group, established in the UAE in 2008, offers expert consulting advice to local, regional and global clients engaged in the construction and development sectors. Its range of services includes an industry leading energy management division, project management, claims and arbitration advice, as well as specialist services to suit market conditions, i.e., fit-out management and tenant coordination consulting.

As an approved Chartered Building Consultancy (CBC), it is committed to professionalism, quality and integrity of service. Its management system is audited and certified to ISO 9001. With experience in a diverse range of sectors, which includes government, aviation, hospitality, residential, commercial, retail, education, and petroleum and gas, it delivers projects in the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Libya and Europe. Consequently, with the rise in demand for its services Pure Logic opened a second regional office in Oman in 2012.

“Our company vision is to offer the highest level of professional consulting advice available in the region. Our staff endeavours to deliver on promises and commitments and always go above and beyond what is required,” says Samuel Lehain, its CEO. ❖ ServiceS Project management: Pure Logic

Samuel Lehain, CEO Group has a different approach to project management compared to other consultants. Its project management system is designed to be delivery-focused and streamlined. “We don’t believe in administrative heavy systems and procedures and adapt to each individual client’s needs,” he adds.

Fit-out management and tenancy coordination services: Pure Logic Group has developed a code of compliance and set of guidelines for master developers and community managers. It ensures that all-new tenancy fit-outs comply with the landlord’s requirements as well as local authority regulations. energy management: Logic Utilities, part of the Pure Logic Group of companies, was one of

the first specialists in the UAE to offer complete utility solutions and services. It assists developers and owners’ associations that have been unable to acquire direct billing services from their central cooling service supplier by providing a unique metering, maintenance, billing and collections package. It guarantees a professional metering installation undertaken by knowledgeable, and experienced technicians. claims and cost management: Pure Logic Group has developed one of the strongest claims team in the region. This team of legal experts, contract specialists and forensic investigators combine to offer an exceptionally proactive group of professionals that can mobilise quickly.

SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

25

DO CUSTOMERS WANT BETTER BANKING STANDARDS? Are you satisfied with your current bank?

Would you recommend it to your friends and family? The NPS Survey conducted

by Souqalmal.com, the UAE’s #1 financial comparison website, will take an in-depth look at the various aspects of the overall banking experience of customers in the UAE and KSA. It’s the first of its kind in the UAE to allow customers to vote for their bank. Ambareen Musa, Founder and CEO of Souqalmal.com, discusses the relevance of the NPS Survey, the results, and how it can transform your banking experience.

What is the NPS Survey?

The results of the NPS survey have been used to conceptualize and launch the Souqalmal.com Bank Satisfaction Index – an all-inclusive assessment of the level of satisfaction amongst bank customers in the UAE. The NPS Survey, is the most in-depth one conducted by Souqalmal. com and evaluates various aspects of the overall banking experience. The parameters covered include customer service, product offering and financial education. The data from the NPS Survey has been used to award the Most Recommended Bank in KSA and UAE.

What does it mean to the consumer?

The NPS Survey assesses customer service, product offering, banking channels and financial education. The survey also helps reveal what’s bothering bank customers the most, and which are the main customer concerns that banks need to address in a bid to retain existing customers and attract new ones.

What are the major insights this survey sheds light on?

According to the NPS survey by Souqalmal. com, 34 percent respondents of in the UAE and 38 percent in KSA would actively recommend their bank to friends or colleagues.

But when compared to the results from polls conducted in previous years, consumer satisfaction is visibly on the rise. The percentage of respondents in the UAE who would actively recommend their bank has gone up from 27 percent in 2014, and is significantly higher than the 15 percent in 2013.

survey results reveal a need for better branch and call-center experience, transparent product information and prompt complaint resolution amongst top customer priorities.

It’s essential for banks to understand what is important to their customers and what improves their level of satisfaction and drives their loyalty, because only a happy customer is likely to stick around and recommend their bank to others.

BETTER BANKING STANDARDS NEEDED, SAY 66% OF UAE RESPONDENTS

The results highlight improvements bank customers are actually looking for. The

2015

Chilly Willy Trading Chilly Willy Trading was established in February, 2008 company of the Chilly Willy group, who are manufacturers, importers, exporters, wholesale & general merchandise. The manufacturing company M/S Chilly Willy Food and Beverage Industries LLC operates in Techno Park.

Ranked

74

th

Satheesha Venkatramana

We manufacture and export tomato paste, tomato ketchup, rose water, vinegar, chilly sauce, hot sauce, and garlic sauce products in an ultra-modern factory. The company is HACCP approved by M/S. TUV Middle East, ISO 22000

www.chillywillydubai.com

Email:satish73@eim.ae

DUBAI SME 100

ClASS In trAnSforMAtIon Cyber security is Paramount in a connected world

Premchand Kurup, CEO, Paramount

Paramount’s client list includes some of the most respected and admired names in the Middle East including leading airlines, telecom companies, government departments, banks, and oil and gas companies.

28

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

Paramount, the regional leader in cybersecurity, enables customers to protect their critical information assets and infrastructure through a prudent combination of people, process and technology.

Founded in 1992, transformed into an Internet Security Solutions Provider in 1999, reconfigured in 2007 through a Management Buy Out (the first MBO of an IT Company in Dubai Internet City) and reinvented in 2015 to morph into a trusted cybersecurity solutions provider, Paramount is a “Class in Transformation.”

Paramount was one of the first companies in the region to be certified on four ISO standards, which include ISO 9001-2008, ISO 27001-2013, ISO 20000-1-2011 and ISO 22301-2012.

Today, Paramount’s client list includes some of the most respected and admired names in the Middle East including leading airlines, telecom companies, government departments, banks, and oil and gas companies. The company was adjudged as one of the top five SMEs in the UAE and was nominated as the “Best Place to Work”. It was also awarded “Great Place to Work” for female employees. Leadership development programmes, personal growth labs and project management workshops are regularly conducted to unearth the ‘hidden talent’ in people and nurture the next generation of leaders.

What distinguishes Paramount in the marketplace is its team of accomplished cybersecurity professionals and their track record. A 145-strong workforce, with over 100 security consultants and engineers, makes Paramount one of the largest reservoirs of cybersecurity talent in the Arabian Gulf. The 13-member management team of Paramount has an aggregate of over 200 man-years of industry experience including 93 man-years in the cybersecurity arena.

The company takes equal pride in having an engaged and motivated workforce that actively participates in various CSR activities, lending great support to the society. The company contributes 2 per cent of its profits, and employees voluntarily contribute one day’s salary to a CSR fund, which is effectively used in various meaningful initiatives and well-designed programmes towards educational

A 145-strong workforce, with over 100 security consultants and engineers, makes Paramount one of the largest reservoirs of cybersecurity talent in the Arabian Gulf.

assistance, Iftar camps and medical camps for labourers, among others. They have also partnered with various schools across the UAE to create awareness among students on the need for information management, security and online safety.

In 2015 Paramount was received the CSR Label and the “Happiness in the Workplace Award” from the Dubai Chamber, while in 2012, the company was awarded the MRM — Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Business Excellence.

The company’s mission is to be the most admired security services company in the Gulf region and the leadership believes that their CLEAR (Caring, Learning, Energising, Achieving and Respecting) value system will help them achieve this end.

DUBAI SME 100

Making a difference

Bin Touq Transport LLC, a transportation and waste management company, isn’t just chasing bottom line growth but is growing the business responsibly, and is getting recognised for its efforts Suneeti Ahuja-Kohli Established in 2008, Bin Touq Transport LLC has built a formidable name for itself in the industry. It specialises in bus rentals, cargo transport services, and water transport, which includes waste management, sludge removal, TSE water supply, and sweet water supply. In an exclusive interview with the Khaleej Times, Omar Al Emadi, Chairman, talks about the challenges and opportunities in this business, expansion plans and more. Edited Excerpts: Give us an overview of your business.

Omar Al Emadi, Chairman, Bin Touq Transport

30

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

BIN TOUQ TRANSPORT LLC (BTT) has been active in the transport field since 2008. In seven years of operations, we have established a good network of clients and are proud to serve some of the biggest names across the UAE by offering them efficient services.

BTT has vast industry experience in heavy and light truck transportation services, and provides comprehensive heavy truck transport solutions to all kinds of businesses. Our experienced management team, drivers and skilled staff are highly professional, who offer services after thorough consultations with clients.

The company specialises in water transport (waste management, sludge removal, TSE water supply, and sweet water supply), bus rentals, and cargo transport services. BTT offers flexible and cost-effective transport services that operate 24 hours a day and 7 days a week to suit customers’ requirements, and ensure complete customer satisfaction.

Our business is related to transportation and waste management — two sectors that are in great demand in the UAE. We are constantly working to improvise our services and frequently introduce improved and reliable systems of transportation and efficient means for waste disposal.

BTT has earned trust and repute from clients and the government by following the framework issued by the authorities in the areas of waste management. We abide by the regulations for waste management and recycling.

Moreover, our waste management business follows the same approach as do companies in developed countries.

We follow the three ‘R’s: reduce, reuse and recycle the waste management strategically as per the rules and

DUBAI SME 100

regulation. Therefore, BTT has successfully created and designed excellent processes for recovering, reducing and disposing the waste, which is the key reason behind our economic growth and development as a private company.

Our core values (Commitment, Satisfy the Client and Safety) have allowed us to be one of the most successful member companies in Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Leaders. Our reputation is important to us and we promise to provide high-quality service to have long-term relationships.

What prompted you to set up this company?

Basically after studying the market, we identified excellent opportunities and high demand in this space. Dubai is one of the top cities in development and swiftly delivers projects, which has created demand for our business. Moreover, we wanted to contribute to the local economy and be a part of the economic development as loyal citizens.

What challenges do you face?

There are lots of challenges related to transportation and waste management business. For instance, understanding the law, rules and regulations, and then adjusting operations to implement the rules correctly and officially to avoid any kind of problems in the future. Moreover, as a new company it was tough to foray into the competitive space and get business from clients, especially the ones who have their own suppliers for a long time.

To start a new principle in the market, and overcome challenges successfully, Bin Touq Transport along with its management team and employees worked hard to serve the clients with high level of integrity and quality by respecting their needs, providing competitive rates, and accomplishing tasks well before the deadlines, which increases client satisfaction.

The vision of the company is the welfare of the environment. How do you take care of this aspect?

We aim to do this by adopting the best practices that are environmentally friendly and safe; follow due diligence and procedure when dealing with waste management; recycle and focus on population growth; and comply with the environment legislation.

Our planet deserves to be healthy, and BTT follows eco-friendly business practices

to ensure a positive impact. Furthermore, waste disposal is closely monitored by the UAE government, which allows us to follow the right procedure for industrial commercial waste with positive systems that will not affect the environment negatively.

We also follow these practices: • All staff undertakes environmental training as part of their induction into the business • Fitting tracking management systems on BTT fleet minimises daily travel distances reducing our fuel bill and carbon emissions • Set internal targets to reduce the use of diesel, water, gas, electricity and other materials at all our depots.

Enlist some of the milestones.

One of the important focus areas in waste management business is to set effective milestones that can be achieved successfully by the management as well as the employees. Therefore, BTT is concentrating on areas such as contracts, service delivery, budgeting, employeerelations, and satisfying the customers.

We are keen to identify different methods of waste collection and transportation and understand the advantages and disadvantages of various processes. Some of the aspects of business being looked into include trucks, loads, operations, maintenance, distances, workers and their commitments, safety, security, insurance, customers, approaches, budget, and marketing materials.

Going forward, we wish to achieve significant results in project management, planning, processes, business contracts, suppliers, updated systems, completed services, scheduling orders, documentation, time action, mission operations, attitude control, power, training plans, updated process, develop benefits case and marketing campaign.

The company has been a part of Dubai SME. How has the association helped in business?

Dubai SME helped us in marketing our business to different clients across the UAE. The association also helped us in resolving some of the problems faced in our day-to-day operations such as the ones related to human resources by providing us with the needed consultancy and strategic plan that supported our long-term business by organising courses, seminars and workshops.

Tell us about the scale of operations and expansion plans.

Employees are our prime assets, and they are fully aware of their job and tasks at hand. The management is always there to motivate and guide them in order to make sure that the plan is effectively followed.

The operation system at BTT is transparent, so the information is available for the employees to refer and get the answers for their questions. This has built a team of highly effective employees with strong skills and talents.

In developed companies, highly skilled employees and strong operations are the two main pillars of successful companies.

BTT is practising this method efficiently by establishing challenging careers for our business operation and ensuring that the employees are well-trained and knowledgeable.

Moreover, we have several systems in place that allow our business to grow responsibly such as internal systems, tracking systems, HR tools and financial plans. These allow our management to become strong, deal professionally with clients and achieve business targets, and also build a positive reputation, earn profit and encourage loyalty among employees.

BTT has 150 employees and two offices in Dubai. In the future, we plan to open more branches in the Gulf region.

Our vision is to be one of the leading companies in the field of transportation in the UAE. We plan to double our fleet size and employee strength in five years.

Do you also run a water treatment plant?

Not yet, but it is on our agenda. We are planning to build a private water treatment plant in the future.

Concluding note...

Bin Touq Transport LLC as a private company run by individuals is following right and useful methods in disposal of waste water and solid management. By following the right process and original practices, we have earned the trust of our clients and become one of the successful companies in the UAE. We follow unique business practices and highly value professional employees and efficient vehicles. Besides, the government is supporting our business by providing immense support. Our vision is to go global, and provide our services all over the world.

— suneeti@khaleejtimes.com SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

31

DUBAI SME 100

Transforming businesses through technology and consulting forward to expanding our operations in these geographies.

How many firms have you assisted so far?

Since inception, we have created value through process improvement and automation for over 150 customers. Last year, we worked with around 40 customers in the region and beyond.

Since its inception in 2009, Levtech Consulting has created value for over 150 businesses through process improvement and automation It is important for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to adopt the right technology at the right time. With business applications such as ERP or CRM, SMEs can ensure better growth and internal governance. Levtech Consulting has been helping SMEs and large enterprises make the right choice in these areas. In an interview with Khaleej Times, Anilesh Kumar, CEO, Levtech Consulting, talks about the importance of such moves and business in detail. Excerpts: Tell us a bit about your organisation.

Levtech Consulting is a leading technology consulting firm that delivers the best-ofbreed business solutions from software vendors such as Microsoft and Infor, and industry-specific consulting services based on global best practices and domain expertise. The company was set up in 2009 and operates offices in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, US and India.

We have excellent talent in the areas of Business Consulting and Project Management for Enterprise Applications such as ERP, CRM, EAM, HRMS, and Business Intelligence. Today, we have a team of over 200 consultants that have helped over 150 organisations transform their businesses.

What solutions and services do you offer?

Solutions provided by Levtech Consulting include Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Enterprise Asset Management (EAM), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Human Resource Management System (HRMS), Business Intelligence (BI), Retail systems and web/mobile app development.

Our primary services are end-to-end project implementation and support services for business applications. We also provide business process re-engineering services, technology and system audits, and niche IT staffing services. The key industries

We play the role of a trusted technology advisor for our clients, guiding them on how to convert technology and systems into a competitive advantage. While clients focus on their core business, we aim to build an internal business applications roadmap for our customers, piecing the right solutions together and ensuring that customers see tangible value and RoI on a continuous basis.

Anilesh Kumar,

CEO, Levtech Consulting

we service include manufacturing, retail, construction and contracting, distribution and real estate.

Tell us about your reach within the UAE and beyond.

We started this company in the UAE and continue to see significant activity in the IT market here. We have over 75 customers in the UAE, which include several prominent names in the private and public sector.

In Qatar and KSA, we have set up independent entities and acquired a large number of ERP clients. Our office in India continues to be a resource base and we also have a global support centre in Bangalore (India) that supports our global customers.

Our offices in Singapore and the US provide consulting services to customers in these countries. In future, we are looking

What role does Levtech play to assist start-ups?

It is very important for SMEs to adopt the right technology at the right time. It is also vital for companies to understand the various nuances involved in selection, deployment and internal evolution of a business application such as an ERP or CRM. These mission-critical applications have a great bearing on the organisational growth and internal governance, and it is very common for business owners to make wrong choices or take incorrect decisions during this journey.

At Levtech, we play the role of a trusted technology advisor for our clients, guiding them on how to convert technology and systems into a competitive advantage.

While clients focus on their core business, we aim to build an internal business application roadmap for our customers, piecing the right solutions together and ensuring that customers see tangible value and RoI on continuous basis.

Tell us about the Dubai SME100.

We were delighted to be ranked 12th in our first attempt at the Dubai SME100. This was possible due to our steep and consistent growth as a company in terms of revenues, customers and team members, and more importantly, our dedication to high-quality delivery of services to our customers.

What advice would you like to share with young aspiring entrepreneurs?

I believe entrepreneurship is all about thinking differently and executing at the speed of light to achieve an early advantage, wherever possible. As an entrepreneur, the greatest satisfaction comes out of evolving a pathbreaking thought into actionable steps and executing it with precision, and further scaling that into a successful, repeatable model. The leadership element of entrepreneurship is also very important, and an entrepreneur needs to keep constantly experimenting and improvising to be a better leader.

SPECIAL REPORT | KHALEEJ TIMES

33

DUBAI SME 100 Global Trust Enterprises FZCO

Giving industries an engineering impetus Global Trust Enterprises FZCO strives to provide reliable support to various sectors and corporations with valueaddition at competitive pricing Farhana Chowdhury

Global Trust Enterprises FZCO offers more than 1,000 brands and products from its global network of manufacturers and suppliers.

It also boasts an impeccable track record with all financial institutions since its inception.

34

Patience and perseverance are key factors that helped Managing Director Abdul Aziz establish Global Trust Enterprises FZCO and nurture it into becoming a leading supplier of a wide range of products that cater primarily to the oil, gas and petrochemical industries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Established in the year 2006, Global Trust Enterprises FZCO offers more than 1,000 brands and products from its global network of manufacturers and suppliers, and operates via its headquarters based in Jebel Ali Free Zone. It is associated with many internationally renowned manufacturers and suppliers from across Europe, North America, and Asia.

“We also cater to water, power, infrastructure, steel, aluminium and copper industries, to name a few, and recently added railways and aviation to our expertise. Our portfolio of end-users consists of various prestigious corporations.

We also supply engineering goods such as chemicals, catalysts, lubricants, equipment, spare parts, etc.,” said Aziz.

Global Trust Enterprises FZCO strives to provide reliable support to industries and corporations with value-addition at competitive pricing.

“We give them an engineering impetus. At the moment, more than 50 per cent of our staff are

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

Abdul Aziz, Managing Director, Global Trust Enterprises FZCO

Advice to Aspiring entrepreneurs “Always enter in the industry you want to be in, be very careful and try to achieve excellence. Results may not come immediately but try to raise the bar every day in terms of quality, service and excellence — whether it involves customer relationship, procurement or logistics — and in a matter of time you will be successful.

"At the same time, you have to be honest, hardworking and open. You also have to be ready to bite the bullet sometimes when things do not work out.

"Plan long-term instead of just a few years ahead, and do not run after money. Chase excellence instead and rewards will come to you in due time. “ — Abdul Aziz, Managing Director

highly qualified engineers, which in my opinion is something that is greatly lacking in the marketplace,” he added.

The organisation conforms to high quality standards with certifications such as ISO 9001 for Quality Management, ISO 14001 for Environment Management, and OHSAS 18001 for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.

“We also have an impeccable track record with all financial institutions and are continuously recognised by Dun & Bradstreet Credit Bureau from a financial

perspective,” he said.

Despite the fluctuating market, Abdul Aziz emphasised that the organisation successfully handled its cash flows responsibly and considers it as one of their biggest achievements.

“Now we are going towards backward integration, and trying to establish ourselves as an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor where we see a big scope,” he said.

To date, the organisation has served projects in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Iraq.

— farhana@khaleejtimes.com

DUBAI SME 100

Making businesses smart and secure efforts of team Tablix. It is momentous to be awarded second year in a row.

Tablix offers exemplary integrated technology solutions to companies across the GCC and Indian subcontinent

What is your mission and vision?

Our mission is to use our unique portfolio of reliable, innovative and cost effective services to deliver extensive value to clients.

We will shape and lead the markets in which we choose to compete and build long-term client relationships. We believe our valuable employees make a world of difference.

Our vision is to be a part of people’s life by creating unprecedented and enduring value with our innovative technology solutions and world-class service.

Suneeti Ahuja-Kohli With superior products and services, several SMEs turn the tide in their favour even in turbulent times. Tablix Technology LLC is one such name. Since inception in 2006, the company has weathered economic storms and emerged as a strong player in the integrated technology solutions. It has been recognised twice at the Dubai SME100. In an interview with Khaleej Times, Gopu Nair, MD, talks about his business, challenges, and more. Edited Excerpts: Give us an overview of your company.

We are a design and engineering house focused on integrated technology solutions. our core business areas are security and control systems, communications infrastructure and audio visuals. We cater to various technological demands of clients, enabling them to achieve their business goals through innovative design and engineering excellence.

When was the company established and how has it fared so far?

We started as a two-member organisation in 2006. In the last decade we have grown manifold and currently employ over 70 people, most of whom are engineers. Our operations are spread across the GCC with three offices in the UAE, one each in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, and the rest in Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

We are planning to expand our reach to Kuwait and Iraq too in the near future.

We have deployed more than 5,000 installs for integrated technology solutions in the Middle East and Indian subcontinent and are adding more every day.

Tell us about the product portfolio.

Whether planning, engineering, implementing, training, managing or service, Tablix is a trusted name and competent partner in providing the best-of-breed systems, solutions and operational recommendations. We offer solutions in security and surveillance, telecommunication, audio visual, control room, retail software, and energy management.

36

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

Gopu Nair, Managing Director Tablix is run by experienced and certified professionals who aspire to deliver valueadded and technologically advanced products and services. We have the ability to build and customise requirements to meet or exceed our customers’ expectations in line with industry standards.

The company provides superior support, which translates into technical and professional services, improved uptime, increased productivity and investment protection. We regularly update customers on the latest technology trends and share recommendations on ways to improve bottom and top lines.

Tablix has a number of important projects under its belt and high-profile clients in every vertical, namely hospitality, media and communications, multinational corporations, government, consultancy, aviation, logistics, banking and finance, retail, real estate, education and medical indutries.

How relevant are Dubai SME100 awards in terms of supporting SMEs? This award is a tribute to the spirit of entrepreneurship in Dubai. Despite the odds and challenges, entrepreneurs in Dubai march on, contributing to the growth and well-being of the economy. Tablix grew from a fledging organisation into a strong entity with the support and encouragement of a large number of customers in the industry.

With prudent management and correct prognosis, we have managed to tap the market, boost growth and gain recognition across the countries we operate in.

The award is the result of the combined

How can companies integrate your products and services into their businesses?

Our industry experience ensures all new and proven technological developments and market trends are fully understood and exploited by our engineering team. We take special care to ascertain our technical skills and experiences are constantly upgraded with relevant workshops and certifications. As more systems and technologies continue to evolve and converge, we have developed a high level of expertise in consultancy, design, implementation and maintenance of simple to highly complex and fully interoperable and integrated communication, audiovisual, security and control systems.

Using the most recent technologies, we provide reliable connectivity for critical applications across distributed facilities. We place high value on integrity and adhere to our Code of Business Conduct. Besides, all projects are managed in accordance with the ISO9001-2008 standards.

Share a few tips for new start-ups.

Starting at the right time with the right kind of investment is the key to success for any business. Entrepreneurs should make sure that they do not crowd the market with their services, else the business would not make money.

How do you view the current market?

The current market is expected to be turbulent, but we are always prepared for the worst. We have introduced some products that are low on maintenance cost, and high on return investment products, which have seen greater demand in the current market situations. We expect such initiatives to cover the gap of our regular business.

— suneeti@khaleejtimes.com

DUBAI SME 100 TOYOTA

Support a customer-centric philosophy Keep your SME moving forward with Toyota’s comprehensive business solutions Maintaining its position as an undisputed market leader in SME offerings, Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor of Toyota in the UAE, appreciates the important role that SMEs play in the country’s economy. It has accordingly developed its SME approach to focus on customised automotive business solutions, supported by over six decades of after-sales experience and customer service excellence at over 14 Toyota showrooms across the UAE. In line with its customer-centric philosophy, Al-Futtaim Motors reinvigorated its approach to SMEs through a comprehensive Toyota Business

ZERO KEEPS YOUR BUSINESS MOVING

Solution offering that provides dedicated and exclusive support to SME customers in order to meet their needs in an ever-evolving market.

Last year, Al-Futtaim Motors launched new Toyota business centres, dedicated to service SME customers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates through a completely personalised proposition that includes exclusive account management, vehicle registration support, after-sales packages, leasing facilities, faster enquiry response, dedicated delivery process, Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) approach and fleet management consultancy.

With the latest Triple Zero offer, now Toyota SME customers can benefit from zero down payment, zero interest for the first two years, and zero instalments for the first three months, enabling them to focus on growing their business without upfront liquidity, while enjoying the quality, durability and reliability of their Toyota fleets.

O

Toyota Business Solutions offers you the Toyota advantage at zero cost.

Pay zero down payment, zero interest for 2 years, and zero monthly installments for 3 months. Plus, enjoy unbeatable total cost of ownership with Toyota quality, better fuel efficiency, and easy maintenance to ensure business is always on the move. Call now! Buy Toyota. Buy Quality.

Last year, Al-Futtaim Motors launched new Toyota business centres, dedicated to service SME customers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates through a completely personalised proposition.

DOWN PAYMENT % INTEREST FOR 2 YEARS INSTALLMENTS FOR 3 MONTHS

DOWN PAYMENT

% INTEREST

2 YEARS

INSTALMENTS

3 MONTHS

341955

3

51413

Valid for a limited time on Camry, Hilux, Avanza, Yaris & Corolla. Terms & conditions apply.

TOYOTA.AE

800

TOYOTA 869682

DUBAI SME 100 ADIB

One-stop shop for business owners ADIB Business lends SMEs a hand with exclusive packages and customised financial solutions

Mahdi Kilani, Head of ADIB Business

We believe that SMEs are still and will remain the engine of growth for the UAE economy and they need ever more support from financial institutions with clear view of their needs.

38

KHALEEJ TIMES | SPECIAL REPORT

Amid such a challenging economic environment, it has become vital for banks to provide innovative and simplified banking solutions to cater to the evolving needs of their customers. The SME sector is the pillar of the UAE economy. It forms up to 60 per cent of the country’s non-oil GDP and employs around 85 per cent of the private sector workforce. However, when it comes to raising finance, SMEs face several challenges.

According to recent research, 70 per cent of SMEs struggle to raise finance in order to grow.

“We believe that SMEs are still and will remain the engine of growth for the UAE economy and they need ever more support from financial institutions with clear view of their needs,” said Mahdi Kilani, Head of ADIB Business.

ADIB Business started operations in 2008 with a philosophy that targets SMEs from various economic segments. The bank offers exclusive banking packages, transaction banking and cash management services as well as customised financial solutions to business owners. Businesses can get finance with no collaterals, business-covered cards and business vehicle finance, as well as working capital finance, trade finance and fixed assets finance with the assistance of a team of experienced relationship managers. ADIB Business also allocates to business owners a team of expert business

banking professionals and 24-hour support through phone, mobile and online banking. ADIB is one of the largest banks in the UAE with a distribution network that includes 88 branches, eight business centres and sales offices, and more than 760 ATM and CDM machines.

In line with its efforts to provide continuous support to SMEs, ADIB also offers “BusinessPulse”, an information portal that gives start-ups, entrepreneurs and business owners access to information related to their day-to-day business as well as guidance and support for long-term growth and expansion strategies.

ADIB Business recently introduced a full-fledged solution targeting merchants.

This solution consists of bundled products and services, including an ADIB Point-of-Sale (POS) machine, which helps businesses accept card payments in their outlets, an ADIB Business Merchant Account with a waiver on

ADIB Business recently introduced a full-fledged solution targeting merchants. monthly maintenance fees and access to state-of-the-art internet banking with unlimited free local and international transfers. The bundle also provides business owners with the option to avail ADIB POS Finance, which offers merchants considerable finance amounts with competitive rates against their Point-of-Sale receivables.

With this package, ADIB has become the first Islamic bank in the UAE to offer a full-fledged merchant solution.