Lessons from UHNW Families: Here’s Why Resilience Can’t Be Inherited

At the University of Arizona’s Biosphere 2 Project, scientists created a sealed “mini-Earth” to study plant growth and ecological systems in a controlled environment. The trees inside grew quickly – but something unexpected happened. They collapsed before reaching maturity.

The cause? No wind.

In the wild, trees respond to wind by developing what’s known as “stress wood” – a structural adaptation that strengthens them, helping them bend without breaking and root more deeply into the ground. Without that natural stressor, the trees in the biosphere lacked the resilience to grow strong and stable.

Humans are no different. We need challenge to grow. Without problems to solve or discomfort to navigate, we don’t develop the emotional muscle required to thrive. Confidence and self-belief are forged through experience – by being trusted to face difficulties, to stumble, and to recover.

And yet, in many affluent families, the instinct to protect can quickly tip into overprotection. Parents step in because they can – but sometimes, that very support becomes the obstacle to growth.

As a psychological consultant working with UHNW families for over 15 years, I often hear the same concern: “Where is my child’s resilience? How do I help them build it?” It’s a valid question – and one that speaks to a core paradox of wealth creation.

Many first-generation wealth creators had no choice but to develop resilience. Their success was shaped by hardship, risk, and relentless effort. But once that financial security has been built, the natural instinct is to protect the next generation from the very struggles they once endured – to offer their children the ease and experiences they themselves never had.

And while this is nearly always done with love and the best of intentions, it can quietly deprive children of the experiences they need to grow strong. Because every time a parent or caregiver steps in to solve a problem a child could have handled themselves, it’s not the child’s self-esteem that grows – it’s the parents.

The Privilege to Fail

Resilience isn’t something we’re born with – it’s a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs to be worked. It’s built through experience, repetition, and recovery: trying, failing, learning, and trying again. And there is no more important time to build this than during adolescence – a developmental window when identity, self-belief, and coping strategies are being formed.

This is the time when young people begin to separate from their parents, test limits, and push against challenge. If we remove every obstacle from their path, we also remove the very conditions that help them grow strong.

Modern life complicates this. So many of life’s natural frustrations – waiting, boredom, disappointment – have been replaced by instant gratification. When discomfort arises, it’s easier than ever to swipe away or switch off. And in UHNW families, where resources can smooth almost any surface, the temptation to intervene is even stronger.

But grit grows in discomfort. If a child wants to quit violin halfway through the term, encourage them to finish. If there’s a fallout with a friend, resist the urge to step in. Let them work it out. Today’s teens are far more likely to “ghost” whatever feels hard – friendships, commitments, even opportunities. One of the greatest gifts we can give them is the ability to stay, to sit in discomfort, work through it, and understand that struggle isn’t failure. It’s growth.

And for UHNW families, resilience isn’t just a personal skill – it’s a generational safeguard. Without it, young people may struggle with conflict, decision-making, financial responsibility, and self-worth. The long-term cost of avoiding short-term discomfort can be far greater than it first appears.

How to Cultivate Resilience in the Rising Generation

Let them fail.
Let them work it out.
Let them.

Yes, it matters that they have someone to turn to – someone to talk to, confide in, and make sense of things with. We’re not talking about letting failure spiral into crisis. We’re talking about safe, supported struggle. About building a framework where challenge isn’t avoided but guided. That’s why people like us exist – to offer psychologically relevant mentorship tailored to this group’s unique position in the world.

One of the healthiest examples I’ve seen was a young man from a billionaire family whose parents were intentional from the start. They didn’t deny their wealth, but they didn’t let it define him either. He worked on the shop floor of the family business, volunteered regularly, and managed his own budget – with no bailouts and clear consequences for overspending. Their wealth wasn’t used for excess, but for experience. And just as importantly, they invested in the right kind of support: someone who could help him process those experiences, explore his identity, and find his place in a world that didn’t always make sense.

And it worked. That young man developed confidence, empathy, and resilience – not in spite of his privilege, but because of how it was navigated.

It’s also vital that children understand how their family’s success came to be. Show them the first office, the early years, the setbacks. Let them hear the story of the struggle -not just the end result. That context doesn’t create guilt, it creates understanding. I often hear parents say, “I just want my child to appreciate what we’ve built.” But appreciation needs context. If luxury is all they’ve ever known, it won’t feel like a gift, it will feel like a given.

That’s why building self-worth independent of net worth is so crucial. Children need to believe in their own ability to cope, adapt, and make decisions. But that belief can only grow if we give them enough space to try, and sometimes, to fail.

Resilience is 90% parent and caregiver led. If we’re not encouraging our children to have difficult conversations, to manage disappointment, to recover from setbacks, we’re not preparing them for the world they’ll one day be expected to lead.

These young people will face judgment, social isolation, and extraordinary expectations. They need a foundation strong enough to carry that weight -not just because of their wealth, but despite it.

As I often remind families, the goal isn’t to pave the road ahead – it’s to equip the child to walk it.
Because ultimately, the greatest inheritance isn’t what we give our children – it’s who we’ve helped them become.

Insights on the Impact of AI in the Vertical SaaS industry

AI (Artificial Intelligence) has been an undeniably key asset to various sectors in the UAE’s booming economy where according to a recent report by Trends, it is expected to contribute US$96 billion to its GDP by 2030.

The SaaS market’s evolution began with the dominance of broad, general-purpose platforms, but eventually revealed a crucial truth: industries require tailored solutions. This realization led to the rise of Vertical SaaS (VSaaS), software designed for specific industries to provide niche functionality. While VSaaS addresses the limitations of generic platforms by delivering targeted features and deep industry knowledge, artificial intelligence, particularly AI agents, is now fundamentally transforming the landscape. We’re moving beyond the provision of specialized software to an era of intelligent, autonomous systems, where software acts as an active, knowledgeable partner, not just a tool.

The Impact on VSaaS

The value of vertical SaaS is evident in the success of companies like Seez, which has focused on the automotive sector from the start, using marketplace data to create industry-specific solutions for dealerships. In many ways, vertical SaaS paved the way for AI’s rise, as it showed that tailored, specialized software could offer deeper value. Customers don’t just want software that helps them work faster; they want platforms that think and act like an extension of their own team.

AI offers the potential for far greater customization and adaptability than traditional vertical solutions. In industries like automotive, healthcare, and finance, where VSaaS once reigned supreme, AI is now automating and optimizing the business experience. This doesn’t mean that vertical SaaS is dying—far from it. It’s evolving. Instead, these companies are enhancing their specialized solutions by embedding AI, transforming them into powerful platforms. This signifies a transition from providing specialized tools to creating intelligent partners.

The Rise of AI Agents

AI agents are autonomous systems that can perform tasks, make decisions, and learn from experience, effectively acting as digital assistants. We’re witnessing a fundamental shift in how businesses interact with software. AI agents are not merely automating simple tasks; they are intelligent problem-solvers that understand and anticipate user needs without human intervention. Imagine a SaaS platform where, instead of navigating dashboards or running reports, users interact with AI agents that proactively provide insights and take action based on those insights.

For example, Seezar, Seez’s AI-powered virtual assistant, goes beyond being a simple chatbot. Trained on automotive-specific data and integrated with dealership systems, Seezar acts as a personalized sales advisor. It can guide potential buyers through the car selection process, offer financing options, and compare vehicles in real-time—essentially replacing multiple tools with a single, intelligent solution. The future of SaaS lies in seamlessly integrated AI agents that continuously learn and adapt, empowering intelligent systems to handle the heavy lifting.

Who Will Lead the AI Agent Revolution?

The question remains: who will dominate the AI agent space? Established SaaS companies, especially those with a strong vertical focus, have a head start, leveraging their valuable customer data, industry expertise, and existing relationships to develop effective AI agents. These companies are well-positioned to integrate AI in meaningful ways, but they must innovate and reimagine their products around AI agents rather than merely adding AI as a feature. Meanwhile, AI-focused startups are emerging with deep AI expertise and fresh, adaptive solutions that challenge traditional players. Their flexibility and innovative approaches could disrupt the market by offering platforms that transcend industry-specific knowledge, relying on AI’s ability to learn and adapt to any sector. Additionally, platform providers that offer the underlying AI infrastructure will play a crucial role in enabling the development and deployment of AI agents. Ultimately, the winners in the AI-driven SaaS market will be those who can best integrate intelligent agents into their offerings, whether they are established vertical SaaS providers or new entrants.

The Future of SaaS

AI agents are redefining the SaaS landscape. What began with specialized Vertical SaaS is now evolving into an era of intelligent, autonomous systems. We are moving from software that is used to software that acts.

Companies that recognize this shift and build platforms delivering powerful AI-driven value will lead the way. One thing is clear: AI is here to stay and is transforming the SaaS industry.

Oscar-Nominated Actor Austin Butler Joins Breitling as the Face of Top Time B31

Austin Butler joins the Breitling Squad as brand ambassador and the face of the new Top Time B31.

This latest Top Time lineup introduces the Caliber B31—the first three-hand manufacture movement designed and developed by Breitling. It is precision with attitude, proving that a great timepiece isn’t just about keeping time, but making it count.

Oscar-nominated actor Austin Butler is a defining talent of his generation. He has captivated audiences with breakthrough performances in Elvis, Dune 2, and The Bikeriders. Butler’s career has been defined by freedom—choosing his roles, crafting his characters, and collaborating with Hollywood’s biggest names. His singular style and fearless approach to his craft resonate with a generation seeking their own moments of freedom.

That spirit makes Butler the perfect match for the new Top Time B31. Butler says, “Breitling, for me, is about adventure and pushing the limits of what’s possible. The Top Time speaks to the way I’ve always wanted to live my life: free and ready to rock ‘n’ roll. It’s a thrill to be part of the squad.”

Breitling CEO Georges Kern says, “I spent time with Austin on the campaign set and was blown away by his dedication and attention to detail. He cares about getting everything just right—something we relate to at Breitling.”

Source: Breitling

TOP TIME B31: FOR THOSE WHO SET THEIR OWN PACE

Since the 1960s, the Top Time has never been just about keeping time, but also about exploring the world in your way, at your own pace. At the time, Willy Breitling’s bold and unconventional chronograph captured the era’s free-spirited energy. It symbolized self-expression, offering a break from traditional watch design.

From the start, Top Time was built for speed and style. It became a favorite among motorsport enthusiasts, fashion icons, and even secret agents—James Bond famously wore a Q-modified Top Time in Thunderball (1965). As one of the first chronographs designed to appeal to both men and women, its bold, graphic designs took over magazine pages and the silver screen.

Now, the Top Time B31 reimagines that legacy as a time-only series, breaking from its chronograph roots while staying true to its unconventional spirit. With a classic 38 mm size, it strikes the perfect balance between heritage proportions and modern design—a watch built to fit every wrist and every pursuit.

Behind the collection, the new time-only Caliber B31 represents a return to the fundamentals of watchmaking, delivering robust performance in a sleek, modern form. As the first Breitling-designed and developed three-hand movement, it builds on the engineering excellence established with the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01—the industry benchmark for chronograph movements introduced in 2009.

“This is watchmaking distilled to its essentials—pure timekeeping, easy wearability, and distinct character,” says Kern.

With applied indexes on the dial, attention naturally falls to the magnified date aperture. A bright orange seconds hand adds a defining detail across three colorways: white on blue, black on green, and sky blue on white. Staying true to the Top Time design codes—where the chronograph featured a bold tachymeter scale—this three-hand version keeps the focus on minutes and seconds in the contrasting rehaut.

A thin profile was top of mind, ensuring a comfortable fit that hugs the wrist. Two key features make this possible: tapered lugs and the crystal with two curved tiers, refining the profile for a smooth, streamlined look.

The watch pairs with either a perforated leather strap with contrasting stitching, inspired by the collection’s racing roots, or a three-row stainless-steel bracelet with an asymmetrical center link—a Breitling signature that enhances wrist presence and lends a sportier feel.

Whether taking on the open road or simply enjoying everyday moments, the Top Time B31 delivers back-to-basics, done right.

CALIBER B31: PRECISION, POWER, AND A NEW ERA FOR BREITLING

Four years in the making, the new time-only Caliber B31 brings enhanced reliability in a new 28 mm x 4.8 mm dimension. Its unique architecture incorporates Breitling’s instantly recognizable signature components: the free-sprung balance wheel for improved precision, and the skeletonized bidirectional oscillating weight powering the automatic movement. Engineered to impress, these features are visible through the watch’s open caseback, with elements finished in Geneva stripes and perlage.

This new automatic caliber reinforces Breitling’s reputation as a technical leader. For the production of components, the Breitling Chronometrie relies on its network of trusted suppliers, while movement assembly will be shared by Breitling and on a dedicated line with AMT in La Chaux-de-Fonds.

Like all Breitling manufacture movements, the B31 is a COSC-certified chronometer, ensuring exceptional accuracy. It also undergoes testing equivalent to 16 years of use: 100,000 crown winds, 3,456,000 weight turns, and 60,000 shocks at 500 G, among other extreme challenges. The caliber stays powered for approximately 78 hours off the wrist and comes backed by a five-year warranty.

The introduction of the B31 is a further step in Breitling’s evolution toward exclusively offering manufacture movements—it’s a new caliber for a new era of watchmaking.

Every Drop Counts: Here’s Where Water Security Efforts are Missing the Mark

The 1800s are when water shortages first appeared in historical records, in the industrial era.

Fast-forward to today, it’s been over three decades since water scarcity, and the concerns around it, were a key focus at the United Nations (UN) Conference on Environment & Development in 1992. While the importance of this issue was growing at the time, comprehensive data was limited.

The UN introduced ‘World Water Day’ one year later, now taking place every year on March 22nd, urging action towards tackling this global crisis. And in 1994, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated the number of people without access to clean drinking water at 1.3 billion.

Where Do We Stand Today?

Extensive research shows the increasing severity and the multifaceted nature of water scarcity worldwide, as 703 million people worldwide – 1 in 11 people – lack access to clean water (in general) and 2.2 billion do not have access to safely managed drinking water services.

To make matters worse, global freshwater demand is projected to exceed supply by 40% by 2030; despite the UN aiming to facilitate universal access to clean water and sanitation before the decade ends. And by 2050, five billion people annually are expected to face inadequate access to water for at least one month a year (up from 3.6 billion people in 2024).

Where Are We Falling Short?

Long story short – everywhere.

To paint the picture a little bit more eloquently, traditional water sources are becoming increasingly unreliable; groundwater reserves are being depleted faster than they can replenish, reservoirs are drying up due to rising temperatures, and pollution is further reducing the availability of safe drinking water.

Parts of the United States (US), particularly the Southwest, have faced extreme droughts. The Colorado River, for instance, which supplies water to about 40 million people in seven states, has declined by 20% over the last century and scientists predict that the river’s flows could shrink by as much as 31% by 2050. Water shortages are also a pressing reality in the United Kingdom (UK) where aging water infrastructure leads to billions of liters of wasted water annually.

Sub-Saharan Africa is also seeing high levels of water scarcity, limited infrastructure, and a major lack of clean drinking water, with demand growing faster there than any other region in the world; by 2050, its water demand is expected to skyrocket by 163% (four times the rate of change compared to Latin America, the second-highest region, which is expected to see a 43% increase in water demand during this period while currently dealing with unequal water access). South Asia faces similar concerns with growing water stress due to population growth and pollution.

Large-scale desalination plants, particularly in regions like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), have been looked to as a solution in recent years but they require significant energy inputs and infrastructure, making them costly and environmentally challenging in the long run.

With conventional solutions struggling to keep up, the world needs a fundamental shift in how we approach water security – and that shift is underway, in the form of Atmospheric Water Generation (AGW), poised to see mass adoption soon.

A Scalable Solution With Seemingly Infinite Potential

With AWG’s ability to extract clean water directly from the air, this technology provides a decentralized and scalable alternative to traditional sources which requires no reliance on existing water infrastructure or natural freshwater supplies. Most importantly, it has the power to adequately address water scarcity.

As innovation progresses, and AWG becomes more energy-efficient, adaptable to varying climates, and deployable at scale, it boasts the potential to be used everywhere – including urban areas, remote locations, and disaster-stricken zones because unlike traditional desalination, AWG doesn’t rely on seawater or large plants.

As of 2025, the Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, is leading the adoption of AWG technology with approximately 25% of global market share. The UAE, as usual, is also following suit with Dubai housing one of the largest air-to-water bottling facilities in the region (generating upwards of 100,000 liters of water per day) and hospitality outlets like the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi having generated over 700,000 liters of water from the air in total since 2023 to help position the country is a leader in the water-technology space.

Combatting Water Security Requires Immediate Action

Ensuring universal access to clean water requires more than just innovation – it demands collaboration. Governments across the globe must integrate sustainable water solutions into national policies, businesses must invest in resilient technologies, and individuals must advocate for more responsible water consumption.

With World Water Day serving as a reminder of how far we’ve come – and how far we still must go – one thing is clear: the future of water security will not be built on yesterday’s solutions.

The path forward lies in new technologies, bold thinking, and sustainable action.

Related: Startup Spotlight: UAE-Based Manhat’s Sustainable Water Solution Is Addressing The Environmental Risks Posed By Desalination Plants

Dubai-Headquartered AR Lab and Snapchat Develop Augmented Reality IftAR Gift Experience

Dubai-headquartered AR Lab Snapchat developed a Ramadan gift box that combines AR technology with Ramadan traditions.

The package features a crescent-shaped die-cut, revealing a yellow plate inspired by the Snap branding and adorned with the iconic Snap Ghost logo. The box also includes a printed ‘Snapcode’, inviting recipients to scan and unlock Snapchat’s exclusive marker technology. When pointing the camera at the Snap plate’, three traditional Ramadan dishes appear virtually using AR. Brought to life on a personalized table mat, a description of each dish will also be visible, providing inspiration while honoring traditional Iftar experiences.

Wissam Jomaa, founder and CEO, The AR Lab said, “This unique project highlights the potential of advanced technologies, such as AR, to create meaningful and highly engaging experiences. The initiative, while underscoring Ramadan’s spirit of unity, also reflects our long-standing commitment to making technology a part of everyday life, for enhanced ease, convenience and leisure.”

Karim Refaat, Business Marketing Manager, Snap Inc., said, “Through this initiative, we wanted to honor the sacred traditions of the holy month, while showcasing the power of our pioneering AR technology to create more meaningful and immersive experiences. Just as we enable brands to connect authentically with their audiences, this gift is our way of showing appreciation to our valued partners in a way that is both innovative, and culturally relevant.”

UAE-Based Platform Investopia Announces Investopia Global Editions in Milan, Limassol, and Budapest

In the presence of H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of Investopia, Investopia signed seven Memorandums of Understanding with national institutions and major global companies to facilitate cooperation in knowledge exchange and organizing new Investopia Global editions.

New partners include GITEX Global, Deutsche Bank AG, EFG Consulting, EuroAtlantic Consulting & Investment, Kearney, Carta, and IMH.

The signings took place on the sidelines of the fourth edition of Investopia, held in Abu Dhabi on February 26 and 27, 2025.

Launched in November 2021 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, and H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, Investopia is a UAE-based platform that brings together the global investment community around investment opportunities in new economies.

The MoU between Investopia and IMH aims to expand Investopia Global to European markets by establishing a new edition, Investopia Limassol, in Cyprus.

In line with Investopia’s vision to consolidate its footprint in Central Europe, the agreement with EuroAtlantic Consulting and Investment is centred around the organization of the ‘Investopia Budapest’ edition. The new platform will highlight promising investment opportunities in the Hungarian markets and forge more productive partnerships at the government and private sector level between the UAE and Hungary.

The MoU with EFG Consulting will facilitate cooperation in organizing the third edition of ‘Investopia Europe’ in Italy’s trade capital, Milan, thereby promoting UAE-European economic ties.

Through its three pillars ‘Investopia Dialogues,’ ‘Investopia communities,’ and ‘Investopia Market Place,’ the fourth edition of Investopia, held under the theme ‘Harnessing MegaForces,’ brought together 132 speakers, including government leaders, ministers, investors, businessmen, decision-makers, economists, and high-net-worth individuals from nearly 20 countries.

The event welcomed over 3,000 participants and featured representatives from leading international financial and economic institutions. This year’s summit hosted more than 42 panel discussions and 16 roundtable meetings – all focused on highlighting the investment landscape in the UAE and key global markets.

From Startups to Self-Care: Why Young Founders Must Prioritize Mental Health

As a young entrepreneur, I find that mental health is playing a huge role when it comes to achieving new milestones or business goals.

It is important to understand yourself to benefit from your strength and understand your emotional weaknesses. Mental health affects the way we think, feel, and act in everyday life, which is why it’s an important concern for leading a balanced life. It could be due to many factors involving the emotional, physical and social aspects. If we think about it, it’s more than just a mental wellbeing, it’s thriving, not just surviving and by taking care of our mental health, we enhance our ability to face challenges and preserve a positive action and connect with others.

On the other hand, disregarding mental health can lead to tough issues like anxiety, depression, or burnout making even small tasks feel overwhelming- and this won’t be shown immediately, but over time.

One of the most important things about mental health is that it deserves attention just like other physical health. Many people think that mental health is not as important as physical health, but both physical and mental well being are greatly related. A clear example for me is when I can notice that stressed people may have physical problems such as high blood pressure, while regular exercises can boost people’s mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety.

As an entrepreneur, it is my belief that by keeping a holistic approach that address both the body and mind you and I can face challenges more effectively.

While stress is one of the most common factors that affects mental health directly, some stress is actually normal and can even be beneficial to be experienced. However, long-term stress can lead to a serious toll on emotional and physical wellbeing. It is important to detect the real causes of stress and find a healthy way to manage them. A powerful technique can be taking deep breaths. Mindfulness and journaling can help reduce stress levels too and create a sense of calmness. I have experienced that the most suitable way to be calm is to write what I feel; this way I can identify the exact feeling and know what I should do to get over it.

The key element in mental health is self-awareness- being aware of your emotions and how they influence your behavior is a vital skill. Self-awareness allows you to recognize when you’re feeling sad or angry, giving you the opportunity to act before those feelings get complicated to solve. As an entrepreneur, I’ve learned to pause, breathe, and identify causes for such feelings when challenges arise, ensuring I stay focused and calm.

As humans, we have a supportive network of friends and family that can make a significant difference in how we handle challenges. Speaking to someone you trust about your feelings can provide relief and a better perspective. Being able to convey your fears or concerns to someone is truly effective and could hold the key to your success and get you back to confidence.

You can also pay attention to your lifestyle’s impact on mental wellbeing. Sometimes your bad nutritional and sleeping habits can make it harder to regulate emotions and think clearly.

Professional support is also necessary to address mental health challenges when things get out of our control. Therapists and physiologists are trained to help individuals work through their emotions and develop strategies for coping. Therapy isn’t just for crises; it also can be a tool for more personal growth and self-discovery for more serious mental health conditions.

It is important to break the ice that surrounds mental health to create a change within our society. Many people are afraid to speak about their struggles or ask for help due to fear of judgment or misunderstanding about their situation. I found that the more we talk about a situation, the more we encourage others to do so and to step forward into solving their situation.

Education is a truly powerful tool that can bring the problem to the table and help people understand what the problem is and what is the solution that we can implement. Everyone in the community can contribute to create a change- schools, organizations and individuals can help in providing resources and raising awareness.

Mental health is a journey not a destination, and everyone has ups and downs. It’s normal to face difficulties along the way, but what really matters is how we respond to that challenge, practicing self-compassion, setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories to keep us on track.

Whenever there is care taken to keep good mental health, there will be a positive ripple effect to benefit everyone’s personal and professional lives. It would also expand the opportunities and empower people at the root of our communities.

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From Startup to Market Leader: Scaling Strategies from the UAE’s Fast-Growing E-Hail Ride Sector

Scaling a startup to a market-leading position within five years is ambitious—but entirely achievable. I know this firsthand. Success demands strategic planning, adaptability, agility, and an unwavering commitment to core business principles. At Hala, our mission has always been clear: to simplify urban mobility through reliable and seamless app-based taxi services. Over the past five years, as our business has expanded and the industry has evolved at an unprecedented pace, this commitment has remained our guiding force.

The UAE’s e-hailing industry has grown exponentially, fueled by rapid urbanization, tech-savvy consumers, and government initiatives that promote smart mobility solutions.

As the CEO of an e-hail taxi app service, I have navigated the many complexities of scaling in a competitive market. The key to success lies in differentiating your service, optimizing operations, leveraging technology, and fostering customer loyalty. Having learned from our journey over the past five years, here are five essential strategies that have been instrumental in achieving market leadership in the UAE’s e-hailing industry.

1. Identify and Capitalize on a Unique Value Proposition

Differentiation is essential in a competitive and rapidly evolving market like the UAE. Startups that fail to establish a clear and unique value proposition (UVP) often struggle to gain traction. Whether through affordability, accessibility, or a superior customer experience, businesses must define what sets them apart from the competition.

Hala, for example, emerged as a game-changer in Dubai’s transportation landscape through a joint venture between Careem, the RTA, and five franchise partners. Launched as a bold and innovative initiative—the first of its kind—it brought together public and private entities in alignment with Dubai’s ambition to enhance urban mobility and advance the Smart Dubai 2021 Strategy. This partnership enabled seamless integration between traditional taxis and app-based booking, providing customers with a reliable and convenient e-hail solution.

Identifying and leveraging a distinct UVP early on is instrumental in building a strong market presence and laying the foundation for long-term growth.

2. Prioritize Operational Excellence

Scaling isn’t just about expanding your business, whether that be fleet size or increasing ride volume; it requires a strong operational backbone. Many startups face challenges when growing too quickly without the infrastructure to support them. Managing fleet logistics, regulatory compliance, and driver or Captain as we call them, efficiency are key elements that must be addressed.

To ensure operational success, data analytics plays a crucial role. For instance, AI-driven driver routing and high-demand prediction tools can improve customer experience, as well as fuel efficiency by ensuring taxis are in the right place at the right time. Streamlining operations ensures scalability without compromizing reliability or profitability.

Additionally, businesses should prioritize continuous employee training and incentives to maintain service quality and staff retention. Practical solutions like remittance programs and well-being initiatives, such as loyalty schemes and performance rewards, can boost morale and drive engagement.

3. Embrace Technological Innovation

Technology is the key driver of growth in every industry moving forward. Companies that fail to innovate risk becoming obsolete. The future of mobility lies in AI-driven route optimization, real-time customer insights, and seamless multi-modal transport integrations for first- and last-mile connectivity. To meet evolving customer preferences, companies must adopt tech-driven solutions. Investing in technology enhances both customer experience and operational efficiency. Startups should leverage data analytics, cloud computing, and automation to scale efficiently while maintaining high service standards. A customer-centric digital experience — from frictionless booking and cashless payments to personalized ride preferences — is essential for long-term success.

4. Build a Strong Brand and Foster Customer Loyalty

Many startups focus heavily on acquiring new customers but fail to prioritize retention. In a competitive market, customer loyalty is a key differentiator. Providing an exceptional experience ensures long-term sustainability, as repeat customers drive consistent revenue. This involves creating a strong brand identity, maintaining service reliability, and offering personalised incentives. Loyalty programs such as Careem Plus, transparent pricing, and overall customer support are critical for fostering trust. For instance, Hala continuously refines its service based on customer feedback, ensuring that features from ride tracking to options for selecting an electric vehicle, and multi-language support cater to diverse demographics.

5. Understanding the Market and Customer Needs

The UAE’s e-hailing sector is characterized by rapid urbanization and a tech-savvy population. In 2024, the market experienced a 16% growth in e-hail trips compared to the previous year, with Hala’s market share during peak hours increasing from 44% in 2023 to 52% in 2024. This surge underscores the importance of aligning services with evolving customer expectations.

If a start-up is to succeed, the company must listen intently to its customers and adapt swiftly to feedback. For instance, recognizing the need for seamless communication, Hala introduced WhatsApp booking, allowing users to book rides through a platform they are comfortable with. This customer-centric innovation has been pivotal in enhancing user experience and satisfaction.

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Scaling a startup to a market leader regardless of the sector requires a deep understanding of the market, a clearly defined value proposition, operational efficiency, continuous technological innovation, and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction. By implementing these strategies, startups can navigate challenges and position themselves for sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving industry.

The journey to market leadership is never linear, but with the right approach, businesses can scale smartly, ensuring long-term impact and industry leadership.

Paradigm: Layla K. Saleh on Tradition, Truth and the Myths of Modern Culture

In a world where modernity often clashes with tradition, Layla K. Saleh is unafraid to speak her truth. The social media personality and podcast host recently joined Paradigm, Entrepreneur TV’s thought-provoking podcast, to unpack the growing misconceptions about faith, tradition, and identity in today’s fast-paced society.

In this candid conversation, Saleh challenges the myths surrounding conservatism and religious values, arguing that modern culture often distorts the essence of faith and morality. She discusses the pressures of social media, the struggle to stay true to one’s beliefs, and why reconnecting with tradition may be the key to finding clarity in an increasingly chaotic world.

With her unapologetic approach and deep-rooted insights, Saleh offers a refreshing perspective on the need for balance between progress and principles. Tune in to this episode of Paradigm for an eye-opening discussion that questions everything we’ve been told about faith, culture, and the modern way of life.

Check out our latest episode of Paradigm on our YouTube and Spotify channels!

Yango Group Unveils US$20 Million Venture Fund to Empower Emerging Startups

Global tech company Yango Group has launched Yango Ventures, a corporate venture fund designed to empower promising startups across LATAM, Sub-Saharan Africa, MENAP, and other high-growth regions of the company’s presence.

With an initial fund of US$20 million, Yango Ventures aims to foster local innovation by providing capital, expertise, and access to Yango’s global network, helping startups scale and drive meaningful impact in their communities.

Yango Ventures will focus on early-stage startups, from Seed to Series B, in the O2O (online-to-offline), B2B SaaS, and fintech sectors.

Led by a board of industry experts, Yango Ventures will support tech-driven solutions that promote digitalization and economic development.

Beyond funding, Yango Group will provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and partnerships with educational institutions to nurture future entrepreneurs.

“We’re more than a tech company; we are an ecosystem committed to empowering entrepreneurs worldwide. At Yango Group, we believe that technology is not just about innovation — it’s a catalyst for tangible progress. Through Yango Ventures, we’re sharing our expertise and network to help startups scale, thrive, and drive meaningful change in their communities. Our mission is simple: let people grow with us. By supporting local talent with the right tools and resources, we aim to foster sustainable business growth and contribute to resilient, inclusive economies across the globe,” says Daniil Shuleyko, CEO of Yango Group.