Dubai launches small business plan to support Emirati retirees 

Pexels/Jeff Sheldon

• Retirees can launch Dubai businesses
• New scheme offers financing
• Skills database to be launched

Retired emiratis are being incentivised to run their own companies after the launch of the Dubai Retiree Projects Support programme this week.

The scheme is part of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to create a more proactive social system.

Benefits include priority for government contracts, financing of future projects, exemption from service fees for five years, and consultation support.

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“Through the large SME and family business sector in the UAE, there are naturally a large number of retirees who are looking to pass on their businesses and knowledge, while retaining the ability to continue to monitor their ventures from the sidelines,” said James Swallow, commercial director at Pro Partner Group.

The project also offers additional job opportunities for retirees and those approaching retirement.

According to Statista, the population of the UAE is 10.24 million. The 55-to-64 age group comprises 5.21 percent of the population, while the older demographic, aged 65 years and over, makes up 1.92 percent.

As part of the programme, a database will be launched by Dubai Police General Command to monitor the expertise and specialised skills of retirees and employees approaching retirement.