Following the success of its first edition, The Gladiator Summit 2024, is back on November 16 and 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, and is set to transform the Middle East’s entrepreneurial landscape. With just a week left until the event kicks off, we got insights from Dariush Soudi, Founder of Gladiator Summit, who spoke at length about how the UAE is effectively adopting real-world strategies and addressing challenges related to hiring.
There’s a lot of discussion about the UAE market’s increasing job fluctuations and the influx of start-up founders who come here to evolve and engage. To this, Dariush thinks there’s always a way out for everything if the “focus is right”.
He said, “The UAE startup landscape is vibrant, attracting a range of ambitious entrepreneurs eager to scale their ideas on a global level. However, for new businesses, a successful strategy often begins by focusing locally. While the ambition to conquer international markets is commendable, startups must first establish a solid foundation locally. By testing their product’s appeal and viability close to home starting at the neighborhood level, then expanding to the city, and ultimately growing regionally – entrepreneurs can build a stable base and gain the insights necessary for broader success.”
He emphasized the fact that “changes in market perceptions can be expensive when launching something new.”
Not only this but Dariush also mentioned emotional and mental challenges in businesses and boasted that “resilience and adaptability are essential.” Further, he highlighted the importance of bringing change, stating that “a lack of innovation may indicate that entrepreneurship isn’t on the right path.”
The UAE market is enhancing its approach to attracting top talent. With a growing number of people moving to the country, the authorities are implementing new initiatives. Dariush believes that the country has created a highly supportive environment for businesses through initiatives like the Golden Visa, simplified setup processes, and a competitive tax structure, which are essential for sustaining growth and adapting to global trends.
