IFA UAE Webinar: Alternative Finance in the UAE: A Practical Guide for Advising Clients | 10 January

This webinar explores how advisors can effectively guide clients in accessing capital from alternate lenders across the UAE.

With many SMEs facing strict bank lending criteria, understanding fintech lenders, private finance firms, P2P platforms, and specialised SME funding providers has become essential. The session covers key funding options, eligibility requirements, documentation, timelines, and how to assess the cost of capital.

It also highlights compliance considerations and practical steps for preparing clients for successful applications. This topic is highly relevant to small businesses seeking flexible financing and to small practitioners aiming to expand their advisory capabilities and better support SME clients.

This session will cover:

  • Overview of the UAE alternate lending landscape and why SMEs are shifting away from traditional banks
  • Types of alternate lenders and funding products available to small businesses.
  • Eligibility criteria, required documents, and approval processes across major lending platforms.
  • How to assess cost, terms, risks, and compliance factors when comparing lenders.
  • Practical guidance for practitioners on preparing clients, packaging applications, and selecting the right funding options.

 

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Date: Saturday 10 January 2026
Time: 2pm - 3pm UAE Time| 10am - 11am UK time. 
CPD hours: 1
Price: Free

About the speaker 

Malachi HallidayMalachi Halliday (1)

Malachi Halliday is an award-winning MSME funding and sustainability expert, dedicated to helping UAE-based B2B, post-revenue businesses secure growth capital, particularly those with revenues below AED 20 million per year.

He is a trusted mentor, advisor, and speaker, having engaged with leading platforms such as Techstars, DANA Global, Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund, AIM Congress, United Nations (UNCTAD), Canadian Business Council, Dubai Entrepreneur Network, GITEX North Star, and numerous universities across the UAE and beyond.

In recognition of his lifelong commitment to inclusion and sustainability, Malachi has been knighted into the Archconfraternity of the Parte Guelfa – Ordo Partis Guelfae, earning the title “Sir Malachi Halliday.”

With his deep expertise in finance, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth, he continues to shape the future of business funding and inspire organizations, governments, and young leaders worldwide