Business
Young Dubai businessman behind unique SDaaS for SMEs
A Dubai-bred young serial entrepreneur is disrupting the local Software as a Service market with a unique AI-driven platform for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, launched at the start of the year.
Called Zoftware, it is “Software Democratisation as a Service, where software products of the people (companies) are recommended by our people (the team), for the people (B2B clients) for any problems they face in their businesses,” says Aayushman Dalmia, 29.
Within the first quarter of operations, Zoftware already has arrangements with a growing list of over 6,000 companies – including the Microsoft and Zoho suites, Google, Adobe and others.
“You can find a packed suite of software just with a generic search, but do you require everything in that or can you customize it? Maybe not. Zoftware is free for the customers while we work with them to understand their needs and even do the work for them in customising solutions from the software companies. Consider us as the Zomato or Tripadvisor for the software industry.
“Avoiding wastage of resources by reducing the gap between the capability knowledge of any software’s offerings and solving the problems of the end users is core to Zoftware’s mission,” says Dalmia, who came up with the idea when he could not find such a solution while searching for his needs himself.
“Zoftware is about marrying software with the best of customer experience. We make it easy for customers to navigate the ocean of software to find the right tools for their business and purpose. We offer deep insights on software and match organisations to the right product, be it for accounting, customer relationship management (CRM), project management, IT, payroll and many more,” says Dalmia, confident his idea will revolutionise the convenience of running a business.
Aayushman Dalmia set up Zoftware after getting stuck with the wrong software as a choice for his family business. Supplied
Zoftware is a unique startup offering a choice of business tools in software with a personalised touch, using Open AI’s ChatGPT, for SME owners and companies. There are plans to take this to India, a huge market for SaaS providers and consumers.
“We have raised 500,000 dollars as a convertible note. And there are plans to raise another $1.5 million in the next round,” he says. “We are aiming for a revenue of $1.5 million by end of 2023.”
The rise of ChatGPT has only become an enabler for the Zoftware team. “Our technical analysts have been nimble to stay ahead on the transformation curve. We are in the process of setting up an AI bot with whom people can converse with, we understand what the customers want from the platform and give them the relevant output data while connecting with the vendors.
“If they want, we can also onboard it for them. With ChatGPT, it can give you out the names, but it cannot do comparisons and the prices that are out there. It cannot help you come to a decision, while we can help find the best value for the clients.
“According to studies, 75 percent of businesses fail in their software implementation. We want to make it to zero, because it is a waste of capital and resources such as time, effort and money. In the SME section, that is not something one can afford. We want to reduce the wastage cycle as much as possible. And we want to build the trust of our customers.”
Zoftware is Dalmia’s latest fruit of labour, coming from his own personal experiences when he saw a gap in the market. He set up Yalla Referral, a referral and benefits platform, is co-founder of an online diamond-purchasing platform Carat Finder and Director of Growth and Innovation at Data Direct Group.
“I remember, in 2018, when I wanted to implement CRM for my sales team, I ended up putting so much effort and money only to realise a year later that I had a complex setup which wasn’t needed at all. Several dollars went in waste apart from the time and effort. Many startups and SMEs may not be able to come out of the wrong direction taken.”
Dubai offers a wide range of residential communities, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighbourhood, a vibrant city lifestyle or an affordable apartment with good transport links.
From waterfront towers to suburban communities with parks and schools, here’s a guide to some of the most preferred places to rent an apartment in Dubai for the long term.
Dubai Hills Estate: Family-friendly environment
Dubai Hills Estate has become one of the city’s most sought-after residential communities thanks to its green spaces, modern infrastructure and family-friendly environment.
Why renters choose Dubai Hills Estate
- Spacious apartments and villas.
- Parks, walking trails and playgrounds.
- Reputable international schools nearby.
- Dubai Hills Mall and healthcare facilities.
- Peaceful surroundings with easy access to major roads.
It’s particularly popular with expat families looking for long-term stability and a high quality of life.
Business Bay: Best for professionals
Business Bay remains one of Dubai’s top rental hotspots for professionals working in the city’s commercial districts.
Why live in Business Bay?
- Minutes from Downtown Dubai.
- Excellent access to Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai Metro.
- Modern high-rise apartments.
- Restaurants, cafés and nightlife.
- Popular with young professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
Its central location makes commuting convenient while offering an energetic urban lifestyle.
Downtown Dubai: If you want city living
If you want to live in the heart of Dubai, Downtown Dubai offers premium apartments surrounded by iconic attractions.
Highlights include:
- Walking distance to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.
- Luxury residential towers.
- Excellent dining and entertainment.
- Strong public transport connectivity.
- Vibrant lifestyle throughout the year.
Downtown is ideal for residents who enjoy living close to business, shopping and leisure destinations.
Dubai Marina: Home with a view
Dubai Marina remains one of the emirate’s most popular neighbourhoods for long-term renters.
Why choose Dubai Marina?
- Waterfront lifestyle.
- Dubai Metro and Tram connectivity.
- Wide selection of cafés and restaurants.
- Marina Walk and beach access.
- Modern apartments with premium amenities.
The area appeals to professionals and couples seeking convenience and an active social scene.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): Value for money
JVC has grown into one of Dubai’s fastest-expanding residential communities.
Residents enjoy:
- More affordable rents than many central areas.
- Parks and landscaped streets.
- Family-friendly atmosphere.
- Schools, supermarkets and fitness centres.
- New apartment developments with modern facilities.
It offers a balance between affordability and quality of life.
Dubai Silicon Oasis: Affordable living
Dubai Silicon Oasis is a popular choice for professionals, students and families looking for value.
Key advantages include:
- Competitive rental prices.
- Technology and business hub.
- Schools, clinics and shopping centres.
- Easy access to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
- Many buildings offer chiller-free apartments, helping reduce monthly utility costs.
The community combines residential, commercial and leisure facilities in one location.
International City: For budget renters
International City remains one of Dubai’s most affordable apartment markets.
Why it’s popular
- Low rental prices.
- Wide choice of studio and one-bedroom apartments.
- Restaurants and supermarkets nearby.
- Schools and healthcare facilities.
- Convenient access to major roads.
It’s well suited to first-time renters, singles and those looking to keep housing costs low.
Al Barsha: Convenience for all
Al Barsha offers a central location without the premium prices found in Downtown Dubai.
Benefits include:
- Close to Mall of the Emirates.
- Good Metro connectivity.
- Schools and healthcare facilities.
- Wide range of apartment options.
- Established residential community.
It remains a practical choice for families and working professionals alike.
What to consider before renting
Before signing a tenancy contract, consider:
- Your monthly rental budget.
- Distance to work or school.
- Public transport and road access.
- Nearby supermarkets, healthcare and schools.
- Building amenities such as gyms, swimming pools and parking.
- Utility costs, including whether the apartment is chiller-free.
- Payment terms, as many landlords require rent in one to four cheques.
Which area is right for you?
Your ideal location depends on your lifestyle and priorities.
- Best for families: Dubai Hills Estate, JVC
- Best for professionals: Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina
- Best for affordable living: Dubai Silicon Oasis, International City, Al Barsha
With communities to suit every budget and lifestyle, Dubai continues to offer long-term renters a wide variety of options across the city.
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