Page 232 - KHALIFA FUND PR REPORT JUNE 2025

Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Al Maryah Community Bank, commented: “We are
proud to partner with Etihad Credit Insurance on the ‘Xport Xponential’ programme, which
represents a significant milestone in empowering the UAE’s SMEs to access global markets with
confidence. At Al Maryah Community Bank, we are committed to offering fully digital, fast, and
innovative financing solutions that simplify exporters’ daily operations and enhance their global
competitiveness.

This initiative not only aligns with the UAE’s vision to diversify its economy and boost non-oil
exports but also opens new opportunities for local businesses in vital sectors to thrive
internationally. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with ECI to ensure that
manufacturers and exporters are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and capital they need to
scale beyond borders.”

The ‘Xport Xponential’ programme was launched to fulfil the dual objectives of catalysing
SMEs’ global expansion and driving SME financing with the help of partner banks. It was introduced
during the third edition of ‘Make It in the Emirates’ (MIITE), held in May 2024, with the aim of
accelerating the global expansion of UAE-based SMEs by offering financial support and ensuring
their export readiness through innovative trade finance and credit insurance solutions.

As many as 42 companies applied for the programme, out of which 10 were shortlisted
based on rigorous evaluation criteria. These companies have collectively generated AED 2.1 billion
in turnover to date and are now targeting expansion into four key markets—Indonesia, India, Saudi
Arabia, and Oman—with a combined export potential of AED 31.3 billion over the next four years
across ten vital sectors. Implemented in collaboration with 19 strategic partners, the programme
exemplifies ECI’s role in driving sustainable economic growth by connecting businesses with
international opportunities and tailored trade finance solutions.

Since the programme’s inception, ECI’s partnerships with government entities and banks
have increased by 27 per cent, reflecting its role in nurturing a robust export-enablement
ecosystem that connects the public and private sectors under a unified vision. Partnerships with
leading financial institutions have helped facilitate consistent, reliable support and access to
growth-oriented funding for UAE SMEs. ECI also hosted a workshop in January 2025 to offer the
selected companies’ essential tools and resources, further supporting their export growth journey.
In addition, these companies belong to diverse economic sectors, showcasing the program’s wide-
reaching impact across key industries.

Xport Xponential’s vast partner list features 19 key strategic partners, including both federal
and local entities, which are: the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Khalifa Fund
for Enterprise Development, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airport Free Zone,
Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ajman Department of Economic Development, Ras
Al Khaimah Economic Zones, as well as Fujairah Department of Industry and Economy.

Its financial and banking partners include Emirates Development Bank, Abu Dhabi
Commercial Bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Ajman Bank, RAKBANK,
National Bank of Fujairah, International Development Bank, Wio Bank, Al Maryah Community Bank
and Reem Finance. It is also worth noting that since its inception, ECI has insured AED 21 billion in
support of local exports and completed underwriting for premiums totalling AED 447 million.

https://www.msn.com/en-ae/news/other/etihad-credit-insurance-announces-aed-174-million-
funding-for-sme-growth-in-partnership-with-four-leading-banks/ar-AA1Hpct8