Dubai's Entrepreneurial Boom: Why Due Diligence is a Founder’s Most Critical Investment

Dubai is not just aiming to be a top destination for entrepreneurs; it has a clear and ambitious vision to double the size of its economy and position itself among the top three global cities. With an audacious goal to grow foreign trade to over $6 trillion over the next 10 years, the city's growth is unprecedented. The numbers from the start-up ecosystem already reflect this trajectory: a combined ecosystem valuation that has surged to over $23 billion, with a staggering $447 million in funding in the first half of 2025 alone.

This explosive boom, while inspiring, comes with inherent risks that must be managed to ensure long-term success. The allure of Dubai’s vibrant ecosystem often leads to an intense focus on speed and scaling. In this fast-paced environment, founders may be tempted to cut corners on critical due diligence, creating vulnerabilities that can lead to catastrophic financial and reputational damage.

This is where Conflict Advisory Group becomes an essential partner. Our services are designed to protect new and established businesses in the UAE from the very risks that come with explosive growth.

The Hidden Risks in a Booming Market

Without proper vetting, start-ups in Dubai are exposed to a range of threats, including:

• Financial Fraud: An employee with a hidden history of financial mismanagement or fraud could be hired to a position of trust, jeopardising the company's capital. With the total valuation of UAE unicorns reaching $17.2 billion in 2025, the stakes for protecting a company's financial health have never been higher.
• Conflicts of Interest: A partner or key hire could have a vested interest in a competing venture, leading to intellectual property theft or corporate espionage.
• Misrepresentation: Candidates may falsify their CVs, work histories, or academic credentials to secure a position. In a city built on a global workforce, verifying these claims across multiple jurisdictions is a complex and vital task.

Pre-Employment Screening as a Strategic Tool

For entrepreneurs, pre-employment screening is not a luxury—it's a critical investment in your company's future. Conflict Advisory Group provides comprehensive screening services that include:

• Criminal and Civil Background Checks: Uncovering any history of fraud, litigation, or other legal issues.
• Financial and Credit History Analysis: Identifying red flags related to financial misconduct or instability.
• Professional Reference Verification: Directly confirming a candidate’s work history and performance with previous employers.

By performing these checks, we provide founders with the peace of mind to make informed decisions and build a team they can trust. Our thorough, professional approach ensures you can focus on what you do best—innovating and growing your business—while we handle the risks.

Dubai has truly reinvented itself as a hub for entrepreneurs. To secure your place in this dynamic future, you need to ensure your company is built on a foundation of trust and integrity.

Contact Conflict Advisory Group today to learn how our pre-employment screening and due diligence services can safeguard your new venture and ensure a secure path to success.