The shortlisted finalists have now been announced for the Gulf Capital SME Awards, which are now in their the seventh year under a partnership between MEED and Gulf Capital.

More than 300 entrepreneurs and SMEs entered the running for this year's event, with 86 companies making the final short list across 16 categories. These finalists will proceed to the judging phase for review by an independent panel of more than 30 representatives from global and regional businesses, government stakeholders and industry experts.

Among the companies shortlisted are AccuMed, BizX, Blissart, Business Experts Gulf, Carlease Rent a Car, DTP, Electric Way, Eleven Percent Consultancy, Ethos Integrated Solutions, Falcon Eye Drones (FED), Leelas Lunches, Levtech Consulting, Parisima Talent, Phanes Group, Planters Horticulture, Retold, The Camel Soap Factory, and Yallacompare.

The winners for the 16 categories will be announced at the gala awards ceremony taking place at the Ritz Carlton DIFC on September 25th 2019.

“Through this partnership with MEED, Gulf Capital aims to recognise entrepreneurial and innovative businesses that support the growth of the economy and introduce new technologies and business models to the region”, said Dr Karim El Solh, co-founder and CEO of Gulf Capital.

“We are very encouraged by the quality and calibre of entries this year and we look forward to hosting another successful event.”

In addition to Gulf Capital, the awards are supported by partners including Beehive, Diligencia, In5, the Italian Industry & Commerce in the UAE, the Khalifa Fund, Micropolis and Tie Dubai.

The awards are independently audited by global advisory firm Grant Thornton.