Alaan Launches ‘Alaan Sawa’ Initiative to Support UAE SMEs

Alaan, a UAE-based corporate card and spend management platform, has announced the launch of ‘Alaan Sawa: Better Together,’ a Dh3 million initiative designed to alleviate the operational burdens of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The program aims to support up to 1,000 businesses across the Emirates by covering essential overheads, specifically focusing on utility and telecommunications expenses. As part of the pledge, eligible companies can receive up to Dh3,000 in upfront benefits over a three-month period to assist with bills from providers including DEWA, SEWA, ADDC, Empower, Etisalat, and du.

Beyond direct financial relief, the initiative provides participants with free access to Alaan’s corporate card and cross-border payment platform for six months. A central feature of the program is the “Sawa Partner Network,” a collaborative ecosystem that allows businesses to offer their own services, discounts, and professional support to one another. This peer-to-peer model is designed to foster a more resilient business community by turning logistical requirements into opportunities for mutual growth and cost-sharing.

Founded in 2021 and recognized as a “UAE Future 100” company, Alaan has raised over $55 million in funding and currently serves more than 3,000 businesses. The leadership at Alaan emphasized that ‘Alaan Sawa’ was developed to provide practical, immediate support for essential costs, helping SMEs navigate a challenging economic period. By combining direct bill assistance with a partner-led support network, the company intends to drive long-term sustainability for the UAE’s entrepreneurial sector.