Dubai: The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Chambers have entered into a strategic partnership with Tradeling, the largest B2B digital ecosystem in the MENA region, aimed at accelerating the digital growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Dubai. This collaboration, under the Dubai Traders initiative, seeks to facilitate the transition of Dubai-based SMEs into digital wholesale and B2B trade.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed in the presence of key figures such as Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of DET, and Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). The signing was conducted by Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), and Alastair Croker, CEO of Tradeling.
This partnership signifies a new chapter in the evolution of the Dubai Traders initiative, which has previously formed strong alliances with B2C platforms like noon and Amazon. The current expansion into B2B and wholesale markets aims to create new growth opportunities for traders, manufacturers, distributors, and exporters. Dubai Traders, launched in 2024, is a key component of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aspires to double Dubai's economic size by 2033, enhancing its status as a global business and innovation hub.
Hadi Badri expressed that the partnership aligns with the mission to provide a dynamic environment for SMEs, enabling them to leverage the benefits of a digital economy. This collaboration supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and reinforces Dubai's role as a global leader in entrepreneurship and innovation. By helping businesses digitize their wholesale operations and access larger markets, Dubai Traders aims to transform entrepreneurial ambition into competitive advantage.
Saeed Al Gergawi emphasized the importance of practical support for SMEs seeking growth through B2B channels. The collaboration aims to simplify digital adoption, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making by providing clearer visibility on performance and buyer demand. This expansion beyond consumer e-commerce is intended to help SMEs compete for larger opportunities and achieve sustainable growth.
Alastair Croker highlighted Tradeling's role in supporting Dubai's SME community. As a leading B2B digital ecosystem, Tradeling is committed to empowering traders with digital tools and support, advancing Dubai's vision of a globally competitive, digitally enabled business environment.
The partnership offers a range of benefits to participating businesses, including reduced commissions and fees, discounted advertising packages, and dedicated onboarding support. Businesses will also gain access to educational webinars, advanced analytics tools, enhanced platform visibility, and marketing support to drive buyer traffic. Emirati sellers will receive additional support, such as bespoke content assistance and exclusive opportunities to activate offline sales channels.