Elevating business success: the role of value-added services in economic hubs

Since the launch of the UAE’s free zones, the country’s economic hubs have been instrumental in driving economic growth and seamlessly integrating international businesses into the UAE’s economic framework.

These hubs simplify licensing, offer tax benefits, and provide access to resources which have removed many of the traditional barriers to market entry.

However, in today’s highly competitive environment, businesses are no longer being judged solely on their products or services but on the richer experiences they provide. The key lies not just in what you sell, but in how you support your clients.

In this context, value-added services have become a crucial differentiator, transforming the basic service model into something that not only meets but anticipates the needs of modern customers. This shift is pushing companies and business hubs to embed additional value in every interaction, turning routine service offerings into a comprehensive, client-focused experience.

But what additional offerings are being introduced and what differences do they make to client satisfaction?

Leveraging value-added services for market differentiation

In addition to their core offerings, many business hubs are now integrating tailored services which can include everything from bespoke logistics and legal and financial consulting to specialised technology support and customised HR solutions.

This means they can provide clients with more than just a location for their operations, but also a platform for growth and innovation.

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is a good example. Known for its robust infrastructure, RAKEZ takes differentiation a step further by offering a suite of value-added services that cater specifically to the nuanced needs of its diverse business clientele. From guaranteed assistance with opening business bank accounts – complete with a money-back guarantee if the account opening is unsuccessful – to tax consultation and registration, accounting services and even legal consulting. This has set a benchmark in the market, allowing clients to focus on running their businesses, while RAKEZ takes care of the rest.

These services improve the client experience, help to attract and retain a broad spectrum of global clients, and alleviate many of the administrative burdens that can hinder business growth.

Types of value-added services

The specific challenges businesses encounter are broad and depend on a variety of factors such as industry specialisation, company size, and jurisdictional variances, but typically the services offered can include the following:

Customised logistics solutions: These are crucial for businesses involved in manufacturing or distribution. They include tailored warehousing, efficient cargo handling, and expedited customs clearances, all aimed at reducing lead times and enhancing market responsiveness.

Legal and financial consulting: Vital for navigating local and international market complexities, these services provide expert advice on regulatory compliance, intellectual property rights, and financial strategy optimisation. They are indispensable for businesses aiming to expand and protect their assets while adhering to legal standards.

Business support: These services often include document attestation and professional translation, which help businesses comply with local regulatory requirements seamlessly. For industrial clients looking to set up factories, hubs provide crucial support such as obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOC) and handling Public Relations Officer (PRO) services. These offerings streamline the process of acquiring the necessary approvals and certifications from various governmental entities.

Tax, accounting, and compliance services: These services cover a comprehensive range of financial management and regulatory compliance needs for businesses. This includes consultation on both VAT and Corporate Income Tax to help businesses understand their obligations, as well as registration services to ensure proper adherence to tax laws. Additionally, accounting services, such as accurate bookkeeping and financial reporting, are provided alongside filing services for VAT and Corporate Income Tax returns. These offerings are particularly valuable for smaller companies that need to maintain compliance with financial regulations but may not have the budget or resources to employ full-time financial staff.

E-commerce services: These are another relatively new offering but provide important support to boost a business's online presence and sales capabilities, offering help with everything from account registration and product listing to comprehensive marketing and sales strategies.

These value-added services not only meet the immediate operational needs but also strategically support the long-term success and growth of businesses.

Impact of evolving customer expectations

Today’s businesses expect more than just basic operational support. What they need are services that help overcome some of the problems inherent in entering a new market or industry.

As customer needs become more sophisticated, so too must service offerings. Hubs must adapt by staying on top of market trends and expanding their range of services accordingly.

This could involve putting in place digital platforms that streamline service experience, integrating sustainable practices, or even tailoring consulting services to the unique challenges of different market sectors.

What’s important is staying on top of market trends and recognising needs before they become issues. This is the best way to serve their clients and to ensure that what they offer is relevant and valuable.

Strategic benefits of value-added services

The benefits of these services are a two-way street. When clients experience services that go beyond basic expectations, they will be more inclined to expand their engagement and recommend the services to others. Equally, these services create opportunities for business hubs to diversify their income.

By offering specialised services that cater to niche needs, hubs can attract a broader range of clients. For instance, providing advanced cybersecurity solutions or compliance advisory can appeal to tech-centric startups or multinational corporations looking to align with local regulations. Each new service not only meets a specific client need but also opens up a new revenue channel.

The availability of value-added services also significantly improves a hub’s market positioning. They become more attractive, not just to businesses looking to establish operations but also to those planning expansion or diversification.

For example, Singapore's Changi Business Park offers a blend of high-tech infrastructure and personalised business support services that have attracted multinational corporations seeking an efficient gateway to Asian markets. Similarly, Silicon Valley in the United States provides comprehensive intellectual property assistance and networking opportunities that directly link tech startups with investors and legal experts.

RAKEZ in the UAE also stands out with its tailored e-commerce solutions that are specifically designed to boost the online presence and sales of businesses operating within the zone. These include everything from marketplace account registration and product listing to comprehensive account management and marketing support for platforms such as Amazon and Noon. By providing such detailed and focused support, RAKEZ enhances client satisfaction by simplifying the complexities of e-commerce and contributes to clients’ business growth.

Future trends in value-added services

Looking to the future, value-added services are set to become more comprehensive and varied, but also heavily influenced by technology.

Digital transformation and AI are having a big impact and promise to redefine how services are delivered. AI, for instance, can facilitate more personalised and predictive services, from AI-driven legal and financial advisory that can anticipate client needs before they arise, to logistics optimisations that use machine learning to streamline supply chain efficiencies.

With the global economic landscape continually evolving and factors such as remote work trends and international trade agreements reshaping business operations. There will be a more dynamic approach to value-added services.

Embracing these advanced offerings will be crucial in maintaining your competitive edge, ensuring you stay ahead in a rapidly changing business world. Whether you’re transitioning to remote operations or expanding globally, these services will support your journey, making every step smoother and more efficient.

By Mohammed Kutyba Al Issa, Director of Value-Added Services, RAKEZ

Published by Logistics Middle East