The Future UAE Economy Will Be Built by One-Person Companies
We are witnessing a silent revolution. Every day, more people in the UAE are opting out of traditional corporate life and embracing a new work order that values freedom and flexibility over the rigid 9-5 grind. Becoming an entrepreneur has never been more accessible or rewarding. Starting a business is now seen as a logical step toward a happier life, rather than a risky move.
You Don't Need to Build the Next Unicorn
Bigger isn’t always better. Traditionally, business success was measured by growth, scale, and a large workforce. We celebrate entrepreneurs who build massive companies, but for most people, trying to emulate Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos is not the right path. The majority of people aren’t suited to running huge corporations. I certainly am not, and I prefer the freedom that comes with staying small.
Entrepreneurship Equals Freedom
I started my business to gain freedom. I didn’t want to spend my life working on someone else’s schedule. Building a business allowed me to live life on my terms. I realized that staying small was my superpower. Instead of chasing more clients, revenue, and growth, I asked myself why. Growth for the sake of ego leads to less freedom. Today, I work with a small, agile team of contractors. I have the freedom and autonomy I crave, with enough profit to live comfortably and invest wisely.
The Rise of One-Person Companies
The 2020s have seen a surge in one-person businesses in the UAE. According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, the number of small businesses has grown significantly, with over 80% of the total companies in the UAE being SMEs. Freelancing and small enterprises are contributing enormously to the economy. This shift is set to grow as even large corporations embrace hiring freelancers over full-time employees. The pandemic highlighted that we work to live, not the other way around. People now value meaningful work and balance it with health, relationships, and personal fulfillment.
The One-Person Business Revolution
Jay Z’s famous line, “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man,” rings true for many today. One-person companies are on the rise, offering a stark contrast to the corporate grind. The old corporate dream of suits and stressful commutes is becoming obsolete. Autonomy and flexibility are the new drivers of job satisfaction, as highlighted in Cal Newport’s book, “So Good They Can’t Ignore You.”
Take Control of Your Work Life
Running a one-person business isn’t without challenges, but it offers autonomy, freedom, and flexibility. You set your schedule, work from wherever you want, and choose your clients. It’s a lifestyle that offers more control over your time and income. Instead of one employer, you have a portfolio of clients who pay for results, not time. This model often leads to higher earnings and a better work-life balance.
Join the Revolution
Consider the work you do today. Could you turn it into a one-person business? Could you offer your services to multiple clients instead of just one employer? If so, you can start a company of one and be part of this growing revolution.
At Sharkup, we support entrepreneurs in navigating the UAE business landscape, ensuring your startup's success. Join us and discover how you can thrive in this dynamic market.