Tag: business

Business

SNART25 – THE RISE OF BUSINESS CONSULTING IN EMERGING MARKETS
Emerging markets are undergoing dramatic shifts, economic, political, technological, and social. As they grapple with rapid urbanization, digital transformation, sustainability pressures, and regulatory reforms, the need for specialized advisory and consulting services has surged. This article explores why business consulting is rising fast in emerging markets, what key trends are driving that rise, what challenges firms face. Key Drivers Fueling Growth in Business Consulting in Emerging Markets Several trends are contributing to the rising demand for consulting services: Mega-Projects & National Transformation Schemes Governments …
Legal

SNART24 – CONTRACT MANAGEMENT BEST PRACTICES: REDUCING LEGAL RISKS IN BUSINESS DEALS
Contracts are the foundation of all commercial relationships. They define rights, obligations, timelines, and deliverables between parties. Yet, many organizations underestimate the importance of systematic contract management. Poorly managed contracts can expose a business to financial loss, legal disputes, missed obligations, or reputational damage. In today’s regulatory and fast-paced business environment especially across the GCC where cross-border transactions are common, companies must implement strong contract management processes to minimize risk and ensure compliance. This article outlines the concept of contract …
Business

SNART23 – HOW DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IS RESHAPING BUSINESS OPERATIONS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
In the recent years, the Middle East has accelerated its adoption of digital technologies, driven by ambitious national visions, investments in infrastructure, and shifting customer expectations. For businesses, digital transformation is no longer optional, it’s central to competitiveness, efficiency, and resilience. This article explores how digital transformation is changing business operations across the Middle East, identifies key trends and opportunities. Key Drivers of Digital Transformation in the Middle East Several forces are converging to push businesses in the Middle East toward deeper …
Legal

SNART22 – HOW TO DRAFT EFFECTIVE MEMORANDUMS OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN BUSINESSES
In the fast-moving world of business partnerships and cross-company collaborations, it is vital to define mutual expectations before entering into binding contracts. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) serves as a practical tool for outlining intentions, responsibilities, and cooperation frameworks between parties. This article aims to help business leaders and consultants understand how to draft clear and effective MOUs that protect interests, reduce misunderstandings, and set a strong foundation for future agreements. What is an MoU and Why Use One? An MoU is …
Legal

SNART21 – HOW TO STAY COMPLIANT WITH DATA PROTECTION LAWS IN THE GCC AND BEYOND
In today’s digital economy, personal data has become one of the most valuable assets, and one of the most regulated. Across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, governments are introducing comprehensive data protection laws that mirror international standards like the EU’s GDPR. Organizations operating within or across GCC jurisdictions must therefore implement strong privacy and compliance frameworks to safeguard data and maintain trust. The purpose of this article is to provide organizations with practical guidance on how to remain compliant …
Business discussion in modern office setting.Business

SNART20 – CORPORATE GOVERNANCE: BEST PRACTICES FOR GROWING BUSINESSES
As companies grow, the informal ways of doing things, close relationships, quick decision-making, flexible roles start to strain under complexity, scale, and external scrutiny. Good corporate governance becomes essential to maintain accountability, transparency, risk management, and stakeholder trust. Governance is not just for public companies, private and growing companies benefit greatly from adopting governance best practices early. The purpose of this article is to outline the fundamentals of corporate governance and to highlight key best practices. What Is Corporate Governance & …
Two employees seated at a table.Legal

SNART19 – EMPLOYEE LEGAL RIGHTS: WHAT EVERY COMPANY SHOULD KNOW
Every employee is entitled to certain legal and ethical protections in the workplace. These rights are intended to ensure fair treatment, safety, dignity, and recourse when violations occur. While the exact rights vary by country, many core principles are common across jurisdictions. The purpose of this article is to outline and explain the main employee rights and the importance of each right. What Are Employee Rights? Employee rights are the legal and ethical entitlements that a worker has by virtue of being …
two person talking at each otherBusiness

SNART18 – THINGS WESTERNERS SHOULD ADAPT WHEN WORKING IN MIDDLE EAST – AVOIDING THE CULTURAL GAP
Working in the Middle East can be a rewarding experience: growing economies, dynamic business environments, high-level projects, and often significant cross-cultural teams. However, success doesn’t just come from technical skill or business savvy, cultural adaptation is crucial. Westerners often assume certain norms that don’t translate neatly, and that leads to miscommunication, frustration, or even souring relationships. This article explores key elements of Middle Eastern work culture, common pitfalls for Westerners, and practical tips to adapt. Throughout this piece, are examples …
Business

SNART17 – CONDITIONS TO OBTAIN A GOLDEN VISA IN UAE
The UAE’s Golden Visa offers long-term residency (5 or 10 years) to investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding talents, and others. It’s designed to attract people who contribute significantly to the economy, innovation, culture, or science. For many, it’s a gateway to living, working, studying, or investing in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. But eligibility isn’t automatic, there are specific conditions depending on the category you apply under. This article explains who qualifies and what requirements must be met, and how …
Business

SNART16 – WHEN AND HOW TO FILE CORPORATE TAX IN UAE
Since the introduction of UAE Corporate Tax (CT) in mid-2023, businesses operating in the UAE must navigate new obligations around registration, tax filing, and compliance. While the UAE remains business-friendly, missing deadlines or misfiling can lead to penalties, interest, or lost tax benefits. This article explains how to register for corporate tax and when to file tax returns. Who must Register All taxable persons (companies, branches, individuals engaged in business) are required to register for UAE Corporate Tax and obtain a CT …
Business

SNART15 – LIST OF ALL THE FREEZONES IN UAE
The United Arab Emirates hosts more than 40 free zones offering significant advantages to entrepreneurs and foreign investors. Free zones in UAE are special economic and trade zones where businesses can benefit from features such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, streamlined business set-up procedures, and excellent infrastructure. What is a Free Zone & What Makes Them Attractive? According to the UAE Ministry of Economy & Tourism (MOET), free zones are designated areas where the normal commercial, regulatory, and tax rules differ …
Business

SNART14 – STEPS TO OPEN A BUSINESS IN UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains one of the most attractive places for entrepreneurs and investors. With its pro-business laws, free zones, strategic location, and 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, it provides many advantages. However, starting a business in the UAE still requires understanding legal, regulatory, and administrative steps. This article outlines the key steps needed to follow to establish a business in the UAE, whether on the mainland or in a free zone. Key Steps to Establish a Business …