Since launching in February 2020, KIKLABB – the Dubai Government-owned licensing and workspace hub – has shaken up the region’s start-up and entrepreneurship scene thanks to its collaborative ethos and avant-garde initiatives.

KIKLABB has managed to navigate 2020’s turbulent economic challenges by introducing key initiatives to support entrepreneurs in Dubai and beyond. Shortly after working from home, in May KIKLABB launched a feature-packed virtual licensing platform and, soon after, a first-of-its-kind WhatsApp service to give customers the ability to register trade licenses remotely, using just their smartphone. The initiatives were an overwhelming success, leading to a sharp increase in new business applications.

KIKLABB’s services are designed to not only make it easier to open a business in Dubai, but to transform the way that the licensing process is traditionally managed. Its customer service team guarantees a response to any query within 24 hours and are available via email and phone.

“It’s been a challenging year for entrepreneurs and I’m delighted with what we have managed to achieve. Offering custom, cost-effective solutions specifically for those who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We remain one of the most affordable options for those who wish to license and launch their businesses in Dubai and have access to workspaces” said Tasawar Ulhaq, CEO of KIKLABB. “I’m looking forward to what the new year has in store and with our honest pricing and high-value offerings, it’s exciting to see more and more entrepreneurs choosing to start their journey with KIKLABB.”

In the works for 2021

“I’m confident that 2021 will be another year of growth for KIKLABB thanks to greater business opportunities with Israel as well as the launch of exciting new services for our community. We’re also reigniting our commitment to grow the region’s start-up scene and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs through our SEEDLABB internship programme,” added Ulhaq.

The peace treaty between Israel and the United Arab Emirates commanded headlines last year, and KIKLABB keenly followed its progress. Once the peace treaty was formalised, KIKLABB opened communications channels with the Israeli investment community, and realised the importance of finding a trusted partner to collaborate with and highlight the benefits of having a trade license in the UAE. The NY Koen Group emerged as the clear front-runner and, in November 2020, a partnership agreement was signed between both companies, heralding a brand new business chapter in the Middle East. The agreement opens the door for a dedicated center for the Jewish community in Dubai providing support for business and tourism, as well as a new strategic advisory for Israeli investors keen to launch in the UAE with KIKLABB.

Committed to encouraging entrepreneurship across the region, KIKLABB launched its SEEDLABB internship program. Launched at the end of 2020, the 12-week scheme is designed to mentor and develop young talent in the region, introducing aspiring entrepreneurs to the different disciplines of business including accounting, customer service, marketing and business ethics. Interested applicants are invited to join the wait list for the next intake of interns, who will also benefit from a full-time job opportunity with KIKLABB or a two-year entrepreneur membership.

There will be an array of new services and offerings launched for entrepreneurs this year. With demand for workspaces growing, KIKLABB is set to increase its locations in the UAE and across the region. It’s also planning to provide industry specific sponsorship opportunities for various economic sectors and debut support services such as providing customers with accounting and marketing assistance to take their businesses to the next level.

The KIKLABB advantage

“Like many of our customers, KIKLABB is also a start-up, and as our entrepreneurs grow, so do we. With additional locations, services and sponsorship opportunities, we look forward to continuing to expand on the trust, support and stability that we offer,” says CEO Tasawar Ulhaq.

Owned by the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), a Government of Dubai entity, KIKLABB has helped hundreds of companies set up for success. With zero hidden costs and an open, collaborative environment, the benefits of joining KIKLABB include a P.O. Box, a Dubai stamp and a physical address at the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 in Mina Rashid, one of the largest ports in the Middle East. All entrepreneurs that sign up with KIKLABB are provided with Dubai residency visas, so they can feel at home in the heart of the region’s business hub.