Page 22 - KHALIFA FUND PR REPORT MAY 2025

Press Release

At ‘Make it in the Emirates’:

Khalifa Fund’s ASATEER supported project wins ‘Emirati

Traditional Crafts’ Award

Abu Dhabi, 22 May 2025 – The ASATEER project, supported by the Khalifa Fund for
Enterprise Development (KFED), has been awarded the ‘Emirati Traditional Crafts’ at the fourth
edition of the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ Forum, recognising its innovative contributions and
significant role in advancing the UAE’s entrepreneurial and creative landscape.

The judging panel at this prestigious forum, which is recognised as the UAE’s premier industrial
gathering that congregates entrepreneurs and innovators across diverse sectors, commended the
project for its cultural resonance, originality, and potential to enhance the UAE’s local economy
while contributing to the advancement of the design industry.

Mohammed Rashed AlSuwaidi, founder of ASATEER, expressed his immense pride in
receiving this recognition, attributing the project’s success to the steadfast support provided by
KFED. He stated: “This recognition inspires us to further strengthen our footprint in the local
market and explore new growth opportunities, whether through strategic collaborations or
financial partnerships.”

AlSuwaidi added: “Our products are deeply rooted in Emirati heritage, inspired by the legacy of
the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. We are committed to
sharing our culture, both its authenticity and modern evolution, with the world through premium
craftsmanship. Our participation in several prominent events, including the 2023 UN Climate
Change Conference (COP28), has further fortified our commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly
production. Ultimately, we aim to be pioneers in locally sourced Emirati-made design.”

Mouza Al Nasri, Acting CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, remarked: “We
are proud to see ASATEER’s achievement and the growth of other homegrown ventures. This
reflects the dynamic nature of the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supporting startups and
fostering innovation is central to our mission. Therefore, we remain steadfast in our commitment
to empowering such projects, which serve as catalysts for Abu Dhabi’s sustainable economic
growth.”