The UAE is committed to fostering an enabling environment for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and according to the latest Mastercard ‘SME Confidence Index’, it is succeeding, with 91 per cent of firms showing optimism about their business outlooks.
The third iteration of the index shows that 90 per cent expect to earn similar or more revenue this year compared to last year. Consequently, firms are turning their heads towards growth, with 70 per cent looking to scale, rather than sustain operations. Eighty-three per cent of firms indicated that digitisation will be key for growth, as they focus on enhancing digital payments, financial inclusion and sustainability initiatives.
Digital payments are no longer a nice to have, but rather a necessity. In the UAE, 92 per cent of SMEs now accept digital payments, up significantly from previous years. Furthermore, nearly all SMEs (97 per cent) recognise the importance of better data, analytics, and insights in strengthening their businesses, signalling a shift toward smarter, tech-enabled operations.
Achieving growth
With growth at the forefront of SME ambitions, 70 per cent of small businesses in the UAE are actively seeking credit, reflecting their appetite for investment and expansion.
Mastercard’s collaboration with financial institutions and fintech partners, such as Geidea, is expanding access to innovative credit solutions. By leveraging digital payment data and insights, SMEs can build stronger financial profiles, improving their ability to secure financing and manage cash flow effectively.
Positive impacts on a business
The study reveals that over 80 per cent of SMEs in the UAE believe that private sector initiatives or partnerships have the greatest potential to positively impact their business.
Mastercard continues to work closely with government and private sector partners to provide SMEs with the tools, training, and financial solutions they need to succeed. In 2024, the company partnered with Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) to offer an SME-focused business education program, equipping entrepreneurs with knowledge of digital payments and financial management.
Dimitrios Dosis, president Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard, said: “Small and medium enterprises are the backbone of economies, driving innovation, employment, and resilience. As digital transformation accelerates, SMEs are unlocking new opportunities through digital payments and financial inclusion. Their ability to adapt and grow in a rapidly evolving business landscape reflects the strength of an ecosystem that prioritizes access to finance, digital enablement, and sustainable growth.”
J.K. Khalil, division president, East Arabia, Mastercard, added: “As the UAE advances its vision for a thriving digital economy, SMEs play a crucial role in driving innovation and growth. Their confidence in the future reflects not only their resilience but also the impact of an ecosystem designed to support their success. At Mastercard, we are committed to empowering SMEs with cutting-edge payment solutions, real-time insights, and strategic partnerships that help them scale sustainably and securely.”
