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Blogs

The UAE advantage: Why your Family Businesses will thrive in the Middle Eastern powerhouse

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on the rise, and it’s not just their impressive skyscrapers that are grabbing attention. This Middle Eastern nation is strategically positioning itself as a global hub for family businesses. Many of these businesses have been operating for generations, preserving cultural heritage and values. They contribute significantly to employment, providing jobs for both locals and expatriates. By investing in various sectors, from real estate to retail, family businesses drive economic growth. Their long-term perspective fosters stability and resilience, even during economic fluctuations. Additionally, family businesses often engage in philanthropy, supporting education, healthcare, and social causes. Some UAE family businesses have expanded internationally, enhancing the country’s reputation.

Let’s delve into the compelling reasons why the UAE is the perfect option for your family businesses and entrepreneurial dreams.

Why UAE for family businesses?

Geography: Imagine a place that perfectly blends East and West, offering easy access to European, Asian, and African markets. That’s the UAE’s geographical advantage, making it a prime location for global trade and logistics. But it doesn’t stop there. The UAE boasts a powerful financial sector with low taxes and a focus on privacy, attracting investment and making it a magnet for financial flow.

Family Business Friendly: Now, let’s talk about what truly sets the UAE apart: its understanding and appreciation for family businesses. With a significant chunk of their GDP coming from family-owned ventures, the UAE government actively supports this sector. They offer a business-friendly climate, including recently allowing family businesses to list on the stock exchange, and provide guidance on tax and succession planning – crucial aspects for any family-run company.

Financial Powerhouse: The UAE’s financial sector thrives due to a combination of factors. Minimal taxation and a focus on privacy make the UAE an attractive destination for businesses and individuals seeking to minimize their tax burden and protect their financial information. This, in turn, encourages foreign investment and capital flow, which fuels economic growth. While fostering a welcoming environment, the UAE also maintains a strong regulatory framework overseen by the Central Bank, ensuring the stability and security of the financial system. These factors combined solidify the UAE’s position as a financial hub in the Middle East and a major player on the global investment scene.

Stability and Safety: The UAE’s ambitions go beyond just creating a supportive environment. They’re aiming to become the go-to destination for global family businesses. By establishing legal and institutional frameworks that rival established hubs like Switzerland, they’re offering stability and a safe space for family businesses to flourish.

Some success stories of family businesses in the UAE

Al Ghurair Group: Founded in 1960, this family-run conglomerate is a prime example of the UAE’s success in nurturing family businesses. They boast a diverse portfolio, including the first shopping mall in the MENA region (Dubai’s Al Ghurair Centre) and ventures in packaging, building materials, and investments.

 Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group (ESAG): Another long-standing fa mily business, ESAG has been a major player since the 1960s. Originally focusing on trading partnerships with international brands, they’ve cleverly diversified into retail, building materials, and even industrial sectors. Their success lies in a combination of strategic acquisitions, organic growth, and forming key partnerships with companies like Unilever and Siemens.

Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (SEC): This isn’t a single-family business, but it’s a great example of the UAE’s support for family-run ventures. Launched in 2016 by the Sharjah government, the SEC specifically focuses on empowering family businesses. This initiative has fostered the growth of numerous family businesses in Sharjah, contributing significantly to the emirate’s economic diversification.

Magnati Group: Founded in 2012 by the Nahdi family, Magnati Group is a prime example of a recent success story. This family-owned business focuses on real estate development and construction, specializing in high-end residential and commercial properties. Their rapid growth can be attributed to their focus on innovation and sustainability in their projects. They’ve also leveraged the UAE’s position as a regional hub to attract international investors and partners, further propelling their success.

The UAE’s transformation is still unfolding, but one thing’s for sure: it’s becoming a top spot for family businesses. With its unique blend of opportunity, stability, and cultural richness, the UAE could be your family business’s next big move. To explore more about the vibrant UAE community and its latest happenings, please check our Insights page.

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Blogs

Diving into UAE’s hiring trends in 2024: A guide for job seekers and employers

Recent global changes, such as the UK non-dom tax repeal, have left many experienced professionals contemplating their next move and identifying stable and progressive hubs becomes crucial for them. 

Amidst this flux, the UAE emerges as a center for opportunity, offering a compelling destination for finance, tax, technology and compliance professionals looking to make a meaningful impact

The hiring trend in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is experiencing dynamic changes in 2024, driven by innovation and ambition. From Dubai’s vibrant streets to Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural environment , the UAE remains an attractive and significant destination for global talent, offering growth and opportunity. The UAE’s economy is thriving, propelled by various efforts in the areas beyond just oil. Sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and tourism are leading the way, creating numerous job prospects in the UAE.

Opportunities abound in the UAE

As regulatory frameworks evolve, the demand for skilled compliance professionals in the UAE continues to rise. From financial institutions to multinational corporations, there is a growing need for individuals to steer the complex compliance landscapes. This presents fertile ground for career advancement and growth in the UAE for high-earners from the West, many of which are high-net-worth professionals. Yet, this allure extends beyond professionals to include ambitious entrepreneurs who have the potential to create employment opportunities by tapping these influx of talents..

Beyond its economic excellence, the UAE offers a lifestyle that blends modernity with cultural richness. With infrastructure, vibrant cities, and a diverse expatriate community, it promises an unparalleled living experience. Additionally, its tax-friendly environment adds an extra layer of appeal, making it an attractive destination for those seeking both financial incentives and career progression.

Let’s explore the evolving trends shaping hiring practices in the UAE, providing a comprehensive overview for employers and job seekers alike.

Emerging hiring trends in UAE

Focus on Tech and AI Skills: The UAE’s aspiration to become a smart nation is driving demand for professionals skilled in AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity. The use of these technologies also make the jobs easy and more productive in less time.

Remote Work and Flexibility: The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped work cultures, leading UAE companies to adopt hybrid models with remote work options and flexible schedules. After the pandemic, the firms realized the potential of remote jobs and included it in the work culture.

 Diversity and Inclusion: UAE firms are prioritizing diversity, recognizing its role in fostering innovation and growth through inclusion. The trend aims to create an updated work culture by accommodating global talents.

Sustainable and Green Jobs: The nation is now very much into sustainability and related initiatives. With a vision for environmental sustainability, there’s a rising demand for green jobs in renewable energy and urban development in the UAE.

What is new in the UAE landscape for job seekers and employers?

For Job Seekers:

Upskilling: Acquiring new skills, especially in tech and sustainability, is essential for staying competitive. The UAE is now in search of skills rather than experience for a better tomorrow.

Flexibility: Being open to remote and contract opportunities expands job prospects. The whole dynamics is now changing and the recruiters are looking for the ones who are more flexible to work with.

Cultural Adaptability: Understanding and adapting to the UAE’s diverse culture is crucial for professional success. The roots of UAE lies in a very traditional culture, and the complete acceptance of this versatile culture is very much appreciated by the current recruiting trend in UAE.

For Employers:

Innovative Recruitment Strategies: Utilizing digital platforms and AI tools can streamline hiring and attract top talent and make the recruitment process more seamless and easy.

Employee Well-being: Prioritizing wellness and work-life balance aids in talent retention. The complete potential of an employee is leveraged only when the work environment is satisfying for them. 

Global Talent Pool: Focusing on global talent enhances recruitment quality, especially for specialized roles. The diverse experience and work culture they hold can contribute in molding a better system in the nation

MS as your talent-partner in the UAE

Adaptation to these trends is essential for both employers and job seekers to thrive in this dynamic environment. As the UAE cements its position as a global business hub, opportunities for professional growth and innovation abound. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a recent graduate, the UAE offers fertile ground for realizing career aspirations. MS can be an ally for you in this journey for both C-level job seekers and for the employers. Embrace these trends, seize opportunities, and embark on an exciting journey in the Middle East.

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Blogs

Exploring M&A Gains in the UAE: Who Benefits in the UAE Market?

Despite the backdrop of rising interest rates and fluctuating economic conditions, dealmakers of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) in the Middle East region have found a resilient environment fueled by sustained oil prices and ambitious national infrastructure initiatives. Among the key players, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position as the preferred investment destination, having business-friendly regulations and a robust legal framework.

Leading the charge in M&A activities are the formidable Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs), including the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Mubadala, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, and the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA). As these entities continue to drive deal activity to align with their countries’ economic strategies, it’s imperative to delve into who truly benefits from these transactions and the broader implications for regional and global stakeholders

Let’s explore who stands to benefit from these M&A transactions.

Companies Involved:

M&A transactions often yield benefits for the companies involved. By linking complementary skills and resources, these transactions can drive cost reductions and enhance operational efficiency. Moreover, they may increase market dominance and facilitate diversification across products, services, and revenue streams.

Shareholders:

Shareholders are assured to reap rewards from successful M&A transactions. A surge in stock prices post-merger can translate into capital gains for shareholders. Additionally, improved financial performance and augmented dividend payments are common outcomes, rising shareholder value.

Customers:

M&A activity can enrich the customer experience by offering a broader array of goods and services. With merged businesses providing enhanced choices, customers stand to benefit from increased convenience and access to diverse offerings.

Suppliers and Partners:

Suppliers and partners also stand to gain from M&A activity. With combined companies often experiencing heightened demand for goods and services, suppliers may find expanded opportunities for collaboration and ventures, fostering mutually beneficial relationships.

Economy and Industry:

Beyond individual stakeholders, M&A transactions can catalyze broader economic and industrial growth. By stimulating innovation and investment, these activities contribute to economic expansion, advancing a more competitive landscape and elevating industry standards and innovation.

Be the one who gains from M&A with MS

The potential benefits of successful M&A transactions extend across various stakeholders within the UAE market. Whether it’s companies seeking synergies, shareholders eyeing value appreciation, or customers enjoying enhanced offerings, M&A activity has the potential to catalyze positive outcomes for the entire UAE market. All you need is a trusted partner like MS to help you gain in M&A journey. We offer you seamless and successful M&A transactions in the UAE landscape with customized services.

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Featured

Thriving Through Seven: The journey of MS Beyond Seventh and further!

#MSBeyondSeventh

In the quiet corridors of a tiny one-seater office situated in Abu Dhabi Mainland, we started our journey in 2017. MS or being fondly called Team MS – A journey filled with trials, setbacks, and moments of doubt. Yet, from the very confines of that first office, we dared to dream, to strive, and to endure. With seven years under our belt, we have mastered the art of excellence. From managing compliance to crunching numbers and staying ahead in tax and tech, we’ve got it down pat. 

Our story 

Back in 2015, our Founder C A Mohammed Shafeek, took a leap of faith. He left his tax and advisory job at a UAE-based company to chase his dream: building a tax and business advisory firm focused on helping entrepreneurs and businesses thrive. Fast forward to today, and we’ve got a dedicated team ready to support our clients anywhere across the globe, every step of the way. 

Starting from our modest roots in Abu Dhabi, MS embarked on a journey of growth and expansion. With each step forward, we navigated the obstacles with determination, expanding our world to the ADGM and MASDAR in 2022 and to DMCC jurisdiction in 2023. The journey from Abu Dhabi mainland to ADGM jurisdiction was not just a progression of location, it is a story of resilience, obstacles overcome, and the relentless pursuit of excellence to meet market demands.

Not only has MS garnered numerous industry awards and expanded our client base, but we’ve also actively participated in and celebrated our clients’ achievements, fostering mutual success. By providing sound advice and timely insights, we’ve helped them make the right decisions at the right time. It’s been a joyous journey celebrating these achievements together over the past seven years.

2023: A Year of Triumphs and Transformations

“Reflecting on our journey through 2023, we’ve demonstrated resilience, turning challenges into opportunities and reaching milestones together. As we celebrate our 7th Anniversary in March 2024, we’re excited about the developments ahead, all aimed at serving our GCC market with excellence. Let’s unite and channel our energies towards nurturing growth and success together in the coming years”.

Our Founder and Group CEO C A Mohammed Shafeek

MS kicked off 2023 with a resounding triumph: our entrance into the prestigious DMCC jurisdiction in Dubai. This marked the first of many milestones as we continued our journey toward excellence. Swiftly followed by the momentous launch of our R&D Hub in India, further solidifying MS’s commitment to innovation and global reach.

Progressing further, MS made waves at the Hub71 event. Our Founder and Group CEO C A Mohammed Shafeek stood out as a true leader during the interactive session on Corporate Tax in the UAE, showcasing his impressive knowledge and expertise. 

We seized a fantastic opportunity to sponsor and launch the Midfield Community Cup 2023, here in UAE, where we proudly served as the title sponsor.

Adding to our string of successes, MS clinched the prestigious Finnext Award 2023 for Kitaab and MS, recognizing us as an innovative company in finance. This remarkable achievement marked the first accolade of the year.

To our surprise, a tribute video which was a product of our Marcom team, created for ADGM’s 8th anniversary gained notable recognition from the ADGM authorities. Witnessing the video being played in the ADGM atrium by none other than the ADGM CEO marked a groundbreaking moment for MS, showcasing our impact and significance within the industry.

Remarkable final quarter of 2023: “Hayyakum” Abu Dhabi Finance Week to Cop28

As part of our ongoing vision, MS launched its significant initiative, phase one of ‘Hayyakum: To Your Destiny’, a week-long event aimed to offer valuable insights to the Abu Dhabi business community, regarding the expansion of Al Reem Island. Furthermore, MS has solidified its media presence by successfully collaborating with Times Network to capture the essence of ADGM and AD Financial Week 2023. It has been immense for us to explore and showcase the vibrant landscape of opportunities emerging from this thriving hub, propelling us into new realms of growth and prosperity.

A significant milestone in MS’s journey unfolded in 2023 with the partnership forged alongside the Global Alliance for a Sustainable Planet (GASP), marking a monumental step towards global climate action and sustainable development. The announcement of this partnership gained widespread attention at the COP28 UAE event. It’s moments like these that underscore MS’s commitment to driving positive change and shaping a more sustainable future for all.

As we reflect upon the journey that unfolded, we find ourselves standing at the intersection of accomplishment and introspection, poised to embrace the lessons garnered from both triumphs and tribulations. 

Our visionary future

We know each business is like a unique puzzle, that needs to be crafted and tailored based on the client’s requirements. So, we MSians dive in, work together, and tailor strategies that fit just right. At MS, our clients reign supreme, serving as the cornerstone of our growth, evolution, and unparalleled success. We are making our vision clear and broad as we step into this new phase. You might wonder, what’s our focus? It’s all about accelerating our growth in where we work and what we offer. In this seventh year, we aim for progressive global growth, delivering top-notch solutions across different regions and industries. With MS’s remarkable jurisdictional expansion, burgeoning client base, and numerous successes, we stand poised and eager to extend our exceptional service to DIFC, a testament to our unparalleled growth and dedication.

As we set sail into our seventh year, ‘MSBeyondSeventh’ becomes more than just a tagline; it’s a profound tribute to our origins nestled in the heart of the seven Emirates, The UAE. It encapsulates our journey, not merely spanning seven years, but transcending boundaries, propelling us towards boundless success and unprecedented growth. It symbolizes our collective aspiration to venture beyond the familiar, forging a path toward a future rich with promise and achievement.  As we step into this thrilling new chapter, we embark on a journey pulsating with innovation, growth, and a profound reverence for our roots. Here’s to ‘MSBeyondSeventh’ and the limitless possibilities that await us on the horizon!

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News & Press Releases

Non-Dom Tax in the UK Repealed: Global Impact on the UAE and Beyond

Jeremy Hunt, United Kingdom’s chancellor of the Exchequer, shook up headlines with a game-changing move in the Spring Budget – waving goodbye to the non-domiciled tax regime in the UK and unveiling an exciting, revamped ‘tax holiday’ for those making the move to the kingdom. The significant transformation is likely to impact not just the UK tax system but also other tax-friendly nations, including Western European jurisdictions such as Greece, Malta, and Ireland, as well as countries in the MENA region.

Before that, let us journey through the story of the epic non-dom tax.

Tracing the history of non-dom tax in the UK

The origin of the non-dom tax regime can be traced back to the inception of income tax in 1799 when residents were solely taxed on income earned abroad if it was received within the country. This marked the introduction of the ‘remittance Basis’ of taxation, a concept that underwent modification in 1914, restricting eligibility to residents not domiciled or ordinarily resident in the UK. The ‘remittance Basis’ regime, utilized by non-domiciled individuals, has largely retained its core principles since the 1900s, with significant reforms in 2008 and 2017. Despite these changes, the fundamental principle persists that non-doms are only taxed on overseas income and capital gains to the extent that funds are brought into or used in the UK. Since 2017, non-domiciled individuals have had the option to elect for the remittance basis of taxation for 15 years. Beyond this period, they are treated as ‘deemed domiciled’ for tax purposes, and subjected to worldwide taxation. However, a non-dom can establish a non-UK trust before the 15-year term expires, theoretically exempting the trust from UK tax concerning non-UK sources. The concept that one’s domicile should determine their tax assessment is unusual. Domicile, inherited from one’s father at birth, is often considered an outdated and complex concept. In recent years, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has increased inquiries to ascertain non-UK domicile status, revealing a degree of subjectivity in the assessment process.

But now the non-dom tax has been phased out and the recent changes have introduced new players into the game.

UAE’s attraction for global migrants: A boon amidst UK tax reforms

With its tax-friendly regime, the UAE is emerging as an irresistible destination for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), promising both fiscal efficiency and a top-notch quality of life. The UAE’s magnetic appeal is drawing UK millionaires and professionals with its blend of lower living costs, enticing salary benefits, economic stability, and global hi-tech prominence. Offering long-term residence visas, a high quality of life, and public safety, the UAE stands out as the ideal destination. Meanwhile, the UK grapples with a 50 percent surge in living costs, triggering an exodus of HNWIs. The Henley Private Wealth Migration Report 2023 predicts the loss of 3,200 more HNWIs in 2023, adding to the 12,500 already departed between 2017 and 2022.

Also, the UAE’s real estate sector is set to flourish, fuelled by UK nationals contributing 21.2 percent to international property transactions in 2023. As Abu Dhabi emerges as a bridge between East and West, UK entrepreneurs flock to set up businesses, injecting diverse investments into the thriving UAE economy. This shift signifies the UAE’s ascent as the top choice for migration, driven by economic growth, political stability, and abundant job opportunities. The existing English Common Law system of ADGM in Abu Dhabi can also be an add-on to the migrants for seamless shifts. The traditional allure of the UK, especially London, for migrating millionaires has waned in the face of Brexit and the declining importance of the London Stock Exchange. Being a solution for that, the UAE stands as a global financial hub, beckoning with unprecedented opportunities for these migrating individuals.

Crafting strategies in the face of changing tax landscapes

The impending non-dom tax changes hold substantial implications, particularly for clients in the MENA region, with a specific emphasis on the UAE. Individuals in the UAE and elsewhere should assess their UK residence intentions and seek professional advice to proactively plan for these tax adjustments. Keep in mind that these changes might continue to evolve, especially with the upcoming UK general election set before January 28, 2025, which precedes the implementation of most of these rules by April 2025.

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Blogs

Elevating your business with ethical leadership through advanced Executive Search

Hiring a C-suite talent for your business can have effects on the future of your growth. Companies select executives in different situations based on their unique needs. When considering the need to bring in an executive, there are various positive scenarios to explore. For instance, your company might be in a phase of expansion or establishing a new department, requiring the recruitment of a capable leader. Additionally, forward-thinking businesses often engage in succession planning to ensure a smooth transition in leadership.
Conversely, the situation takes a more challenging turn when the objective is to replace an underperforming leader, either in the process of being terminated or already dismissed. In such instances, the focus shifts to finding an executive with an optimal skill set to not only address the existing issues but also propel the company forward, recapturing momentum and advancing towards its objectives.
But what if the unethical behavior of the leader is the reason for the replacement. Ethics-driven terminations highlight the need for executives with a strong ethical foundation in the recruitment process. Finding leaders with the right skills and unwavering ethical principles sets the stage for outstanding results and long-term success. Trustworthy leaders prioritize moral integrity, putting others first and avoiding unethical behaviour even in challenging situations.

Qualities of an Ethical Top-notch Leader

  1. Honesty as a Foundation: Ethical leaders prioritize honesty in their actions and communications. While not obligated to divulge every detail, they avoid bending the truth or evading direct answers. Striking a balance between transparency and discretion is key, and consistent dishonesty raises a red flag.
  2. Respect Across Hierarchies: Recognizing that organizational charts are social constructs, ethical leaders treat every individual with respect. Whether engaging with interns, IT department members, or fellow C-suite executives, they uphold a culture of respect, understanding the intrinsic value of each team member.
  3. Leading Through Example: Ethical leaders don’t merely delegate tasks; they lead by rolling up their sleeves and actively participating. While delegation is necessary, demonstrating a willingness to be on the frontline inspires others to follow suit. Leading by example fosters a sense of unity and commitment within the team.
  4. Compassion in High-Stakes Decision-Making: Ethical leaders navigate the complexities of leadership with a compassionate approach. In making tough decisions driven by budgets or personnel management, they remain empathetic to the individual experiences of their team members. This blend of analytical prowess and emotional intelligence creates a supportive work environment.

How MS can aid you in placing an ethical leader for your business:

MS can provide unparalleled expertise and support to meet your executive talent needs, ensuring a seamless and strategic hiring process. We collaborate closely with your organization to understand its unique culture, goals, and leadership requirements. Our proven track record in working in various industries can attract top-tier executive talent. MS ensures the selection of individuals who not only possess the requisite skills and experience but also align with your company’s vision and values. From initial candidate sourcing to final onboarding, our end-to-end solutions streamline the hiring journey, saving your valuable time and resources. Trust us to be your strategic partner in securing the executive talent essential for propelling your company towards sustained success and grow

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Blogs

AI in Mergers & Acquisitions: A paradigm shift in streamlining deals for success

Imagine stepping back into the not-so-distant past, a time when Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) were complex, and solved by people armed with experience and gut feelings. Deals with every move carefully planned, and success often hangs in the balance of unpredictable market shifts. It was the era of handshakes and late-night strategy sessions – a world where human touch reigned supreme in the business tango.

Now, fast forward to the present, the global AI market is on a roll, growing at a breathtaking pace – from $100 billion to a projected $2 trillion by 2030. The M&A game is changing, and the change is powered by artificial intelligence. It’s not about replacing the old guard but about joining forces, creating a dynamic duo of human expertise and digital precision. The skeptics are slowly turning into believers, and the confidence in companies using AI to up their game is skyrocketing – 65% and counting.

Our story is about this shift, this evolution in the world of M&A. It’s about moving from handwritten contracts to computer-generated insights, from gut feelings to algorithmic precision.

The evolution in M&A Processes:

Analyzing data from financial statements and market trends to identify a target is a critical and time-consuming task in M&A. However, AI tools have streamlined and simplified this process by efficiently analyzing large volumes of data in a shorter time frame. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also proves to be a cost-effective method. Furthermore, AI contributes to cost reduction in various M&A activities by minimizing the reliance on manual labor.

When it comes to due diligence, a significant stage in M&A has undergone automation with the advent of AI tools. Tasks such as document analysis and review, traditionally reliant on human involvement, are now entirely dependent on AI. This shift not only diminishes the likelihood of errors or oversights but also results in significant time savings. For both buyers and sellers, the precise risk assessment facilitated by AI aids in making well-informed decisions regarding their deals.

In the realm of post-merger integration, the landscape has been transformed by the infusion of AI automation. Tasks such as data migration, employee onboarding, and process standardization now benefit from advanced tools that meticulously analyze datasets, recognizing trends, patterns, and insightful information. The incorporation of AI not only expedites the integration process but also significantly reduces errors. Beyond operational enhancements, this evolution allows for the seamless integration of strategic planning and value creation as complementary elements, enriching the overall integration experience.

Along with all these processes, ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in M&A processes is crucial but often involves significant time and costs. AI automation has simplified the task of mitigating risks by adhering to rules and regulations. AI tools now facilitate the review of contracts, legal documents, and filings, minimizing the likelihood of potential errors in the process.

Navigating the pitfalls of AI usage in M&A

Depending heavily on AI tools may undermine human capabilities, diminishing their effectiveness. Using flawed datasets can lead AI tools to draw inaccurate conclusions, raising concerns about their reliability. Also, the ethical dimension comes into play when integrating AI tools into M&A processes, particularly during due diligence. The potential for biases in language, algorithms, and sampling methods during this stage calls for careful consideration.

Your Strategic Mergers and Acquisition Partner

In the ever-evolving landscape of M&A, MS emerges as your indispensable service partner. We navigate the complexities of AI integration, ensuring your deals are not only effective but also ethical and reliable.

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Blogs

How exceptional leaders prepare organizations for the AI-driven future 

In the wake of the AI revolution, our world is witnessing an unprecedented surge in technological advancements, driving artificial intelligence (AI) into the forefront of innovation. The once speculative capabilities of AI models are now unfolding rapidly, leaving us not to question what AI can do, but rather pondering what it can’t. This transformative shift assures to reshape the way we work, learn, and communicate. As organizations grapple with this inevitable technological disruption, the focus turns to leadership and organizational readiness. 

Executives are acutely attuned to the myriad opportunities that AI presents, particularly in the realm of office jobs. From machine learning and natural language processing to expert systems and generative AI, the spectrum of AI applications is vast. The key opportunities identified by leaders encompass the potential for increased efficiency through the effective use of AI, signaling a paradigm shift in workplace dynamics. Beyond efficiency gains, executives foresee enhanced decision-making, improved risk management, and the birth of innovative products and services as additional fruits of embracing AI. 

How can organizations better prepare for the future of AI? 

Leaders recognize the pivotal role they play in steering their organizations towards preparedness for the challenges posed by AI. It comes as no surprise that these leaders are actively taking steps to enhance their organizational readiness for the AI revolution. One crucial initial step leaders are taking involves sharing their personal journey of learning and understanding AI. Recognizing that knowledge is power, they understand that being well-versed in AI is essential to spearhead any transformative efforts within their organizations. Even in the face of uncertainties, leaders are embracing the idea that starting the adoption process, no matter how small, is far better than remaining inert. 

However, simply understanding AI is not sufficient. The dynamic nature of AI, with its ever-changing landscape of possibilities and risks, makes strategy development a complex task. While the disruptive potential of AI is acknowledged, leaders also see immense opportunities that come with it. Yet, a business-as-usual mindset won’t suffice for organizations aiming to thrive in the age of AI. Leaders must recognize that profound change and robust cultural development are imperative.  

To achieve organizational readiness for AI, business leaders need to act boldly and strategically. This entails gaining a deep understanding of current market capabilities and identifying potential gaps within themselves and their organizations. By doing so, leaders can pave the way for their organizations to not just adapt to AI but to flourish in this exciting era of technological innovation. 

How can MS help in identifying AI-savvy leaders: 

MS is actively involved in the identification and cultivation of top-tier leaders with a profound understanding of AI.  The team is committed to pinpointing individuals who possess the requisite expertise and visionary insight in the dynamic AI field. The company leverages its global network and platforms to connect with emerging leaders, provides them with opportunities to showcase their talents, and contributes significantly to the ever-evolving domain of AI leadership within the company. 

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Blogs

Calling Al Reem Island Businesses: Secure Your ADGM License Before Opportunities End!

The expansion of Al Reem Island to ADGM’s jurisdiction marks a groundbreaking moment in Abu Dhabi’s path to financial leadership. With Al Reem joining Al Maryah Island as a financial-free zone, the expansion aims to offer tax-friendly jurisdiction, attracting international companies with eligible income to establish their presence in Abu Dhabi’s expanding financial landscape. The expansion was confirmed in line with the UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 41 of 2023 on April 24, 2023, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s economic vision, positioning ADGM as the global financial hub. 

Unlocking Opportunities: Advantages of Establishing Your Business in ADGM

Whether you are a startup looking to flourish in Al Reem Island or an established corporation seeking new opportunities, ADGM offers you the ideal environment to unlock your full potential and achieve sustainable growth. Businesses in ADGM leverage distinct advantages in the direct application of English common law, fostering legal certainty. With an array of in-house services, companies streamline operations. Digital registration simplifies setup processes, and activating the e-records, e-contracts, and e-signatures enhances working efficiency. Access to the ADGM ecosystem provides better networking opportunities and synergies, improving growth and sustainability.

Al Reem businesses: Prepare for Your 100% Fee Waiver!

The business operating at Al Reem should be conscious of the timeline and deadlines required to access ADGM’s incentives. As of now, 31st December 2024 marks the final date of the transition period for the existing Al Reem Island businesses. After the designated timeline, the existing license becomes invalid in Al Reem by 1st January 2025. Obtain the ADGM license before the deadline and consider the key dates and ADGM regulations for a smooth transition process.

The transition period marks its final expedition on 31st December 2024. Companies undergoing transition can benefit from fee waivers and incentives based on the completion of the transition process. Al Reem businesses including, healthcare, hospitality, retail, construction, real estate, professional service businesses, etc. (excluding financial services) can secure an ADGM license without any registration fee until October 31, 2024. Simply ensure your license lists an Al Reem address and has no outstanding fines.

Business Future with ADGM

MS Group offers comprehensive advisory services for new businesses seeking licenses to operate within the ADGM jurisdiction on Al Reem Island. It’s not just a jurisdictional expansion—it’s a strategic leap toward establishing ADGM as the ultimate destination for businesses worldwide. With MS Group by your side, brace yourself for a business adventure in ADGM, where opportunity and innovation converge to propel your business toward success. 

Disclaimer :

Registered in Abu Dhabi Global Market (Registered No. 000007218),
We are not an ADGM Registered Corporate Service Provider.

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Blogs

UAE’s rising M&A market sparks investor interest: Explore the key steps of M&A to ensure success.


The Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) market in the MENA region showed a huge rise in 2023. UAE reported the region’s largest M&A of the year with the announced acquisition of Univar Solutions by Apollo Global Management and ADIA for $8.2 billion. In line with this trend, 2024 is also augmenting in terms of M&A. This growth may inspire investors to think about M&A as their next business step. All you need is to brush up your understanding of M&A so the beginners can get down into this opportunity. With the new changes on the horizon, we are giving an overview of M&A and its important steps.

Why M&A in UAE?

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) have emerged as an essential business strategy in the ever-changing business landscape for organizations looking to grow, expand, and get a larger market share in the UAE. In the competitive market dynamics, it is important to diversify and access more talent by cutting down the combination. To flourish the business, improving the market share is also an essential factor that can give your business an upper hand. You will also be entitled to tax benefits through M&A and can also unlock synergies, which are the additional value created by transactions. M&A can always keep the success rate high if it is done correctly at the right time.

Check out the steps in M&A:

We tend to think a lot and go through a series of steps even for ordering food from a restaurant online. The steps included in M&A play a key role in tomorrow’s success of your business. Let’s glance through the steps:


Due diligence:
It is just like how we enquire about the ratings and quality of a restaurant before ordering the food. The process of looking into a potential business, its management, its board of directors, its operations, assets, and finances is due diligence. Finding out more about the target business will enable you to make an informed decision about the acquisition. Following this step, you get a chance to determine at this point whether the acquisition is beneficial to your company or not. It is a key step in the whole M&A process.
 Negotiation:
It happens like how you see offers for food items, and unintentionally both you and the restaurant are negotiating. Here, both the company representatives will negotiate the deal and it tends to be very time-consuming.
 Signing:
In this stage, you are signing the deal like you are selecting your favorite food and adding it to your cart.
 Finalizing:
After adding the food to the cart in your online food ordering platform, you get a window where you can finalize the order and proceed. In M&A, this step is where the execution happens, and the deal proceeds further. At this point, standard legal procedures are fulfilled, including completing the purchase of assets, documenting the agreement, and due diligence of the stakeholders.
 Closing:
The actual closing of the deal happens here like how we confirm our food order. The formalities are completed from both parties and the necessary license to operate is given to the acquirer at this stage.

Why MS for M&A?

The world of M&A is complex. Even though we explained the whole M&A process in a way we order food online, at some point, you may need aid to clear your confusion and difficulties. To maximize the benefits for all parties engaged in M&A, you must do rigorous due diligence and seek professional guidance. Team MS can be your touch point to help you in successful M&A transactions by providing a seamless journey.
Please feel free to contact us with your M&A requirements.

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