Startup Finance Mistakes: What UAE Founders Get Wrong and How AI Can Help
Startup Finance Mistakes: What UAE Founders Get Wrong and How AI Can Help
Establishing a company in the UAE is straightforward. Building the financial and compliance foundations that support it as it grows requires more planning, and it is an area where many early-stage founders benefit from guidance.
This session is the first in a new series from Innovation City for founders building in the UAE, connecting founders with ecosystem partners and specialists who work with these challenges every day.
For our first session, we are joined by skrooge.ai to examine what a well-structured startup finance function looks like in practice, and where AI and automation deliver genuine value.
Who should attend
Founders who have recently established a company in the UAE, or are preparing to. Business owners managing their own finance and compliance without a dedicated finance team. No accounting background is required.
Agenda
10:30 – 11:00 · Registration and networking
Arrival, registration, and refreshments.
11:00 – 11:15 · Welcome and introduction
Nabil Arnous, Chief Commercial Officer, Innovation City
An introduction to Innovation City, the UAE's position as a global hub for startups, and an overview of company setup, including remote establishment options, available packages, and support.
11:15 – 11:20 · Ecosystem partner spotlight: skrooge.ai
An introduction to our ecosystem partner, the tools available to startups, and opportunities for collaboration.
11:20 – 11:40 · Fireside chat
Startup finance: what founders should plan for
Key discussion points include establishing accounting practices early, understanding VAT obligations and timelines, maintaining accurate invoicing and documentation, identifying eligible deductions, and where AI and automation add practical value.
11:40 – 11:50 · Workflow walkthrough
A practical look at a well-structured startup finance workflow, covering automated invoicing, efficient document retention, and maintaining compliant records.
11:50 – 12:00 · Q&A and closing