Government-backed equity and contracts are reshaping SME growth in the UAE Last updated: May 06, 2026 | 09:15 H.E. Dr. Ahmad bin Abdullah Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports and Chairman of the Emirates Growth Fund Abu Dhabi: The UAE government is doubling down on its bet on small business. That was the message from Dr. Ahmad bin Abdullah Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports and Chairman of the Emirates Growth Fund, speaking at a fireside chat on building enduring enterprises at the Make it in the Emirates forum in Abu Dhabi. With corporate taxes now in effect and regional uncertainty rattling investor confidence, Al Falasi acknowledged the headwinds facing SMEs, but pushed back firmly on the idea that the government is stepping back. "Nothing beats access to market," he said.…