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7/2/25, 4:36 PM Etihad Credit Insurance Announces AED 174 Million SME Funding with 4 Leading Banks - Business Today Middle East
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.

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