As global markets navigate a landscape of uncertainty, the UAE continues to stand as a beacon of stability and resilience. While business leaders across the region have applauded the nation’s defence mechanisms and leadership, one Dubai-based advertising firm is moving beyond words and into action.

NextWhat Advertising has unveiled a massive, self-funded tribute billboard at the Dubai World Trade Centre Roundabout. In a move that breaks industry norms, the agency has bypassed commercial revenue to dedicate one of the city’s most premium outdoor spots to a message of solidarity and love for the UAE leadership.

The billboard, strategically located in the parking area facing the flow of traffic from Emirates Towers toward Zabeel Road and facing the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road, carries a heartfelt message honouring the strength, wisdom, and commitment to unity that defines the UAE’s path forward.

A first for the industry

While Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaigns are common, they are almost exclusively funded by clients. NextWhat is pioneering a different path: the billboard owner acting as the benefactor.

“Typically, we see clients using CSR funds for these types of messages. Among outdoor media players, we are the only ones right now who have done this entirely on our own,” says Tanvir Shah, Founder and Managing Director of NextWhat Advertising. 

“We’ve spent our own money and used our own premium space, no sponsorship, no clients, to show our genuine gratitude for the safety and leadership the UAE provides.”

From Mumbai to the world stage

The man behind the move, Tanvir Shah, is a first-generation entrepreneur with a legacy of Thinking Big. A graduate of Mumbai’s prestigious Sydenham College and a veteran of The Times of India, Shah launched his first venture in 1992. Today, his footprint spans India, Sri Lanka, and the UAE.

Under Shah’s leadership, NextWhat has become synonymous with unmissable brand experiences. By dedicating their state-of-the-art digital and large-format sites to a national cause, the company is demonstrating that in the UAE, the bond between the private sector and the state is built on more than just commerce; it is built on shared resilience.

United we stand as a family

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Today, as business leaders and residents alike confront uncertainty, they do so not as guests in a foreign land, but as a united family standing in defence of the home that has embraced them. This bond has been forged through years of shared milestones and a collective belief that, regardless of origin, hearts can beat as one for the Emirates.

“The UAE has given us extraordinary opportunities and unwavering support. Just as it welcomed us during times of prosperity, we stand with it now in moments of challenge. We are not merely expatriates or guests; we are family. Irrespective of nationality, we have consciously chosen this country as our home, and we hold it close to our hearts. Our loyalty has only grown stronger through the trust and confidence shown by the nation’s leadership. This land has embraced us with dignity, and the least we can do is stand by it. At the end of the day, we are one,” concluded Shah.

In a major boost for small businesses, Dubai South has rolled out a powerful new support package, offering financial relief and flexibility to help SMEs stay resilient in a shifting market.

The initiative, targeting companies based in the Business Park, introduces rent-free incentives tied to contract renewals, along with more flexible payment deferrals and even the waiver of minor administrative penalties. In a move likely to be welcomed by business owners, current rental rates will also be locked in for eligible renewals.

Real relief for growing businesses

The package is designed to ease operational pressure on SMEs, widely seen as the backbone of Dubai’s economy, while giving them room to grow and adapt.

Officials say the measures won’t be static either. Instead, they’ll be continuously reviewed and adjusted to keep pace with changing market conditions. 

In a major move last week, Dubai approved economic facilitation measures worth Dh1 billion, set to support businesses for the next three to six months starting April 1. The goal? Immediate relief in a fast-changing market.

Big players step in

Support isn’t just coming from the government.

• du is focusing on keeping SMEs connected, ensuring uninterrupted digital access, which has become a lifeline for many businesses.
• Retail giant Majid Al Futtaim, in collaboration with Dubai SME, has launched the “Ma’an” programme to strengthen the wider business ecosystem.
• Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue has introduced “Blank Space”, offering selected UAE-based collectives free warehouse space for four weeks, along with utilities and marketing support, a rare opportunity for creatives to experiment and grow without financial pressure.

From billion-dirham stimulus packages to free workspaces and digital support, Dubai is building a safety net, and a launchpad, for its SME sector.

The move aligns with Dubai’s broader push to maintain economic stability and strengthen its position as a global business hub. Supporting SMEs is a key part of that vision, as these businesses drive innovation, job creation, and long-term growth.

Timely support matters

Commenting on the initiative, Nabil Al Kindi said the goal is to provide “practical and timely support” while ensuring a stable environment for businesses to thrive.

With rising costs and global uncertainty impacting businesses everywhere, this package could be a game-changer for many SMEs, offering not just relief but a chance to plan with confidence.

For businesses in Dubai South, support is here, and it’s designed to keep you growing.

Dubai authorities have announced a series of business support measures aimed at strengthening resilience, easing financial pressures, and sustaining economic growth across key sectors.

The initiatives are part of a wider Dh1 billion economic incentive package unveiled by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Deputy Prime Minister.

Relief for tourism and hospitality

To support hotels and tourism-related businesses, the government will allow:

• Deferral of 100% of sales fees on rooms and food & beverage
• Postponement of Tourism Dirham fees

These relief measures will be valid for three months starting April 1 and apply to:

• Hotels
• Hotel apartments
• Holiday homes

The goal is to enhance liquidity and reduce short-term financial strain on the hospitality sector.

Wider support for businesses

Additional measures have been introduced across the broader economy, including fee deferrals for three months on:

• Premium business names
• Licence amendments
• Newspaper announcements
• Local service fees
• Accommodation and waste management fees
• Service improvement charges

These apply to both new business licences and renewals, with further updates expected after the three months.

Additional reforms

The broader package also includes:

• Extended grace periods for customs data
• Streamlined processes for issuing and renewing residency permits

Officials from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism emphasised that the emirate’s economic success is built on proactive policymaking and strong collaboration with industry stakeholders.