The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) is bolstering the UAE’s SME ecosystem by supporting the participation of more than 14 Emirati-led projects at the 2025–2026 Sheikh Zayed Festival. This strategic move provides a significant platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services at one of the nation’s most prominent cultural and heritage events.
The festival, held in Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba area, attracts a large and diverse audience, offering a prime opportunity for these businesses to gain market exposure, network with potential partners, and connect directly with consumers.
A Platform for Growth and Visibility
KFED’s initiative is a core component of its mission to foster a robust and diversified national economy. By facilitating participation in major local and international events, the Fund provides startups and SMEs with invaluable market access and opportunities to scale. The support extends beyond mere presence, forming part of an integrated ecosystem that includes both financial and non-financial empowerment for entrepreneurs.
H.E. Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, commented on the initiative, stating, “Our participation in the Sheikh Zayed Festival is particularly significant, as it is one of the most prominent heritage events in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. The festival seeks to preserve the UAE’s cultural heritage, uphold authentic values and traditions, and renew the pledge of loyalty to the noble principles established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.”
Her Excellency added, “At Khalifa Fund, we are proud to support the participation of a number of outstanding national projects in the festival, and to provide entrepreneurs with the opportunity to showcase their products at this premier event. This initiative aligns with the Fund’s strategy to enhance the diversity of the national economy by assisting startups and small and medium-sized enterprises to participate in major local, regional, and international events thereby expanding their presence and establishing strong partnerships with potential partners, buyers, and importers.”
Diverse Ventures Take Center Stage
The cohort of businesses supported by Khalifa Fund represents a diverse range of sectors, highlighting the breadth of innovation within the UAE’s entrepreneurial landscape. The participating ventures include companies in F&B, fashion, retail, and traditional goods.
Among the featured projects are specialty coffee providers ‘Black Cafe’ and ‘Peru café’; culinary ventures like ‘Capri Pizza,’ ‘CRMBZ,’ and ‘Grill Masters’; and traditional food specialists ‘Tekya and Hatab for Traditional Foods.’ The list also includes businesses in fashion and retail such as ‘Khuyut Naya’ for women’s clothing, ‘Al Shawamekh for Travel Supplies,’ and premium fragrance brands ‘Deep Perfume Trading’ and ‘Reeh AlKhazama for Perfumes and Fragrances.’
About Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development is an independent, non-profit organization affiliated with the Abu Dhabi Government. Established in 2007, its mission is to nurture the culture of entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and offer comprehensive support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the UAE. The Fund provides an integrated ecosystem to empower local entrepreneurs and contribute to the nation’s economic diversification.
Source: Zawya
