Author: Tanya Narayan

On April 1, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India will complete 90 years. That’s 90 years of shaping how India banks, saves, invests, and grows. A milestone like this isn’t just about looking back. It’s about taking a moment to see how far the system has come and how many lives it has touched along the way.

Since the early 2010s, we’ve had the chance to be a small part of that journey. From experimenting with digital onboarding to building KYC tools that reach people in the most remote corners, every step has been about making finance simpler and more inclusive.

Let’s take a look at what’s been built together with RBI and the vision that continues to guide what we build next.

A Shared Vision for Inclusive Finance

In a country as diverse and complex as India, where access often depends on geography or circumstance, the ability to engage with formal finance can change lives. RBI has played a central role in enabling this by streamlining processes and setting clear regulatory paths. 

This way, it is now easier for institutions to reach everyone, from the underserved to the urban user.

From the early push to bring banking to rural India to supporting digital payments and UPI, RBI’s intent has been clear: make finance available to everyone, not just the privileged few.

Look closely, and the pattern shows up everywhere. 

• In villages where branch infrastructure is still limited. 
• In urban slums, paperwork is often rejected. 
• In small towns where people want to save, invest, or insure but don’t know how to begin.

Tools need to be built with those realities in mind. Not just high-tech, but high-reach. Not everyone will have perfect documents, a 4G connection, or a quiet room for verification. But everyone deserves a shot.

At Signzy, we’ve tried to build in the same spirit. From the beginning, our focus has been to make onboarding tools that don’t assume high-speed internet, tech-savviness, or urban infrastructure. If something only works in Tier 1 cities, it doesn’t really work for India.

Our Video KYC journey reflects that belief. And our work with RBI as a partner has pushed us to stretch that belief even further. 

Together, we’re changing what that entry point looks and feels like.

Solving the KYC Bottleneck

For years, KYC has been the silent friction point in financial services. Everything else could be digital (e.g., account opening, app journeys, customer support), but identity verification dragged behind. 

Manual checks took days, required in-person visits, and made the cost of onboarding disproportionately high. Even when financial institutions moved to online flows, the process still broke down too often. Document uploads failed, images were unclear, users didn’t know what went wrong. Completion rates stayed low, especially in rural or low-bandwidth settings.

This is where the bottleneck really showed. Not in policy or in product, but in that one moment where a user had to prove who they were, and the system couldn’t keep up. 

RBI recognized this early. It permitted new methods like video KYC and actively pushed the ecosystem to explore them. Through innovation contests, sandbox environments, and regulatory clarity, it set the tone: identity verification had to become faster, safer, and more inclusive. 

That shift in direction gave space for players like Signzy to build systems that could meet those expectations. Before diving into how Signzy took it a step further, let’s understand how the solution works in general.

How Does Video KYC Work

Good onboarding feels invisible. That’s exactly what video KYC was designed to do. 
Whether someone starts the process from a bank app, website, or shared link, the experience is the same: simple, direct, and fully guided.

Here’s how it works, step by step:

1. Session starts via a link or embedded widget: Customers begin their journey through a secure web link or in-app flow. No installations and no friction. The front-end handles pre-call checks, network, camera, mic, VPN restrictions, and device compatibility.
2. Document and PAN verification in real-time: The customer is prompted to show their PAN or other valid ID to the camera. OCR extracts data live, and PAN is verified instantly through APIs. Any mismatch is flagged immediately for correction.
3. Live face match and passive liveness detection: Advanced AI compares the customer’s face to the document photo, confirming the identity and detecting spoofs (e.g., masks, pre-recorded videos) without interrupting the flow.
4. Agent joins for final checks and Q&A: A trained KYC agent conducts dynamic questioning guided by configurable rule engines. Responses are assessed alongside captured data, ensuring both compliance and fraud prevention.
5. Outcome is logged, time-stamped, and audited: The entire session (including video, screenshots, document scans, face match results, and network diagnostics) is logged. All data is stored securely and is accessible through a real-time admin portal and MIS dashboard.

No uploads. No silent failures. Just one clean, human interaction.

The entire process wraps up in minutes, and the user walks away verified. 

What Makes Signzy’s vKYC Solution Powerful

Once the bottleneck was reimagined, it had to be rebuilt with infrastructure that could actually deliver.

Here’s what makes Signzy’s vKYC platform resilient, scalable, and truly inclusive:

• Works on 75 kbps connections: Designed to operate even on low-speed mobile data, making it accessible to users in remote or low-infra bandwidth regions.
• Supports 9 Indian languages: The interface, prompts, and agent workflows are multilingual by design, so customers aren’t forced to navigate in a language they’re not comfortable with.
• Advanced spoof and liveness detection: Detects pre-recorded videos, static images, or screen replays in real-time, protecting against fraud without requiring heavy backend checks.
• 300+ concurrent calls supported: Built to handle large-scale deployment across multiple regions and teams without performance dips or scheduling conflicts.
• Built-in chat, rejoin, and queueing systems: If a call drops or load spikes, the session isn’t lost. Customers can rejoin, chat with support, or reschedule without restarting the process.
• 96% conversion rate across implementations: Higher completion rates, fewer retries, and increased application acceptance, resulting in lower onboarding costs and faster go-to-market for partners.
• Real-time dashboards and automated MIS reports: Get full visibility into call volumes, agent activity, and session outcomes with a 360° dashboard. Daily MIS reports are generated automatically, offering transparency without manual effort.

This feature set was built with India’s unique environments in mind and the belief that inclusion can’t wait for perfect conditions.

Now, the question of security arises. Let’s address that as well.

Security Standards

When it comes to KYC, speed means nothing without security. Every session on Signzy’s platform is encrypted end-to-end and stored with full regulatory compliance. 

The system is ISO 27001:2013 and SOC 2 Type 2 certified, with built-in controls for data privacy, audit trails, and secure access across every layer, from agent interfaces to backend dashboards.

Even India’s top regulators have acknowledged this push. 

Recognition and Regulatory Collaboration

Regulatory bodies and industry forums played a key role in shaping the direction of what Signzy has built.

• RBI Payments Innovation Award (2016 & 2018): Early recognition that identity verification could be reimagined using digital-first infrastructure without compromising on compliance.
• Limited Use Authorization for Unified KYC (2022): Approval to enable broader adoption of seamless, cross-platform KYC journeys under a regulated framework.
• RBI Sandbox for Unassisted Video KYC (2024): Selected for testing fully automated KYC flows, moving beyond assisted models, and pushing the envelope on trust and scale.
• IFSCA Global FinTech Hackathon Winner: Chosen among top global solutions for regulatory-grade innovation in onboarding and identity.
• IAMAI RegTech & Fintech Awards (2018–2021): Repeatedly recognized as the most innovative provider in KYC, compliance automation, and financial data handling.
• India Fintech Forum – IFTA Awards: Acknowledged for best-in-class RegTech design and operational excellence across consecutive years.

vKYC Use Cases

vKYC’s real strength is how it fits across different parts of the financial ecosystem. Wherever identity verification is a barrier, video KYC makes the process faster, safer, and easier to scale.

We offer this through a robust Video KYC API as well as a comprehensive KYC suite that includes DigiLocker, Aadhaar verification, and more. Built to plug into existing systems or run as a full-stack solution, it’s trusted by 30+ institutions across India, including the likes of Union Bank, Citi Bank, Tata Mutual Fund, Aditya Birla Capital and more.

And we’re just getting started.

Closing note

A heartfelt thank you to the Reserve Bank of India and every partner who placed their trust in this journey. We’ve come a long way together, but the work is far from done. Onboarding should feel simple, safe, and seamless—no matter who you are, where you’re from, or what device you’re on.

Numbers don’t lie. 

But they certainly know how to hide.

You might glance at a pay stub or a bank statement and think you’ve got everything you need. Sometimes, those small details – the ones you might overlook – can be the ones that matter most.

Verifying income is not always as clear-cut as it seems, especially in UAE where endless types of income categories coexist. Doing this right is about more than just crossing off a checklist. 

It’s about making sure everything adds up, not just for the sake of compliance but because you want to get it right from the start. 

You don’t want to be left scrambling later on because a tiny thing wasn’t caught early right? 

Got 6 minutes? Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your income verification in the UAE is spot on. We’ll make it easy.

What is Proof of Income – Quick Definition

Proof of income refers to official documentation that validates a person’s earnings and financial stability. In the UAE context, this encompasses various financial records such as salary certificates, authenticated bank statements, and formal employment documentation. 

Common income verification documents in the UAE include salary certificates (issued by employers), bank statements showing salary transfers, and Emirates ID-linked income certificates. For business owners, valid trade licenses and audited financial statements serve as proof of income. 

How to Verify Proof of Income of Different Categories in UAE

Small but mighty – that’s what makes proof of income verification for non-traditional earners in the UAE so interesting. Their income patterns might not follow the usual paths, but verification strategies make all the difference. Let’s see exactly how to handle these unique cases:

Regular Employed Professionals

The fastest and most reliable way to verify proof of income of an employed professional in the UAE starts with obtaining a valid salary certificate. This document must be less than 30 days old and needs to come directly from the employer’s HR department. 

What makes a salary certificate trustworthy? 

• Check the company’s official letterhead, stamps, and authorized signatures. 
• Contact HR directly – yes, every single time. 
• Match everything against bank statements showing consistent salary transfers. 

When these align, that’s solid proof worth trusting. This three-way verification catches most discrepancies early in the process.

It should be simple since salary usually makes up most of the income of employed professionals. But it doesn’t mean they can have only one source of income. While verifying proof of income, consider all income streams they have, along with salary. Dividend earnings, rental earnings, and consulting fees are some examples. 

Business Owners & Investors

In the UAE, you are obliged to verify business before dealing with it. Verifying for proof of income carries even more weight in this category. 

Business owners’ proof comes from multiple sources. Start by checking valid trade licences, recent bank statements, and audited financials. 

Start establishing patterns of sustainable income now. Look for regular transfers between business and personal accounts. Check how profit distributions match declared income – the numbers should align across all documents.

Freelancers & Independent Contractors

Freelance income verification requires a different approach than traditional employment. Most freelancers in the UAE work with multiple clients or through digital platforms, creating a distinct income pattern.

Examine:

• Client agreements alongside bank statements. 
• Contract if they can provide
• Deposits that match contract values
• Analyze payment frequency. 

Most importantly, monthly bank statements should reflect a consistent flow of business transactions, even if amounts vary. Pay attention to their freelance platform income as well, if any. Payoneer, Upwork, or direct client transfers are some examples. Then, cross-reference these with freelance contracts and client invoices to see how they match the declared income. 

Variable Income Professionals

Professionals with performance-linked income need comprehensive verification. These professionals earn through multiple components – fixed pay, commissions, incentives, and bonuses. 

To verify, examine each income stream separately before building a complete picture. Track regular base salary deposits alongside performance payouts through bank statements. Here, the goal should be finding predictable patterns in their total monthly earnings despite varying commission amounts.

Spot Red Flags

While automated tools help catch many issues, knowing what to watch for manually remains crucial. Be extra cautious if you spot any of these red flags:  

Use Technology To Verify Proof of Income in UAE

Digital verification tools have changed the game, making instant checks possible through banking APIs and digital solutions. 

Bank APIs can validate accounts and transaction histories in real time, while OCR technology extracts data from salary certificates automatically – reducing errors and verification time. Business verification APIs help confirm company details and employee status instantly, making HR verification more reliable.

It’s important to note that the verification systems you use will make a world of difference. The right system makes the difference between catching red flags early and dealing with verification failures later.

That’s where integrated verification platforms like Signzy make a measurable impact. By combining essential verification APIs – from bank account validation and OCR technology to KYC and business verification – into a single platform, organizations can streamline their entire income-proof verification process. 

With this unified approach, you can conduct faster verifications and reduce manual errors through a single integration point (while staying compliant).

Imagine moving to a new city. You need a neighborhood that clicks—one that suits your pace, has the right connections, and feels like home. 

Choose wrong, and you’re stuck in a place that doesn’t fit your lifestyle. Choose right, and everything clicks—you’re right where you belong.

Picking a free zone in the UAE is like choosing that perfect neighborhood. 

Especially for businesses in highly regulated sectors like financial services, digital assets, or high-tech ventures, you need a zone that’s “in sync” with your goals. 

Some free zones offer immediate access to like-minded businesses, giving you a front-row seat to industry connections. Others come with built-in regulatory support, helping you stay in the clear as you grow. And a few are designed for pure flexibility, letting you scale up without missing a beat.

Curious where your business would “click” best? It’s a fast read – let’s go.

What Exactly is a Freezone (and Why It Matters) 

Setting up a business in the UAE requires understanding a fundamental choice between mainland and freezone operations. 

Think of freezones as specialized business communities, each with its own character, costs, and focus industries. 

UAE freezones offer clear advantages: 

• 100% foreign ownership
• Zero corporate tax on most activities (for qualified income only)
• Complete repatriation of capital and profits. 

Yes, there are 45+ UAE freezones across seven emirates, but choosing the right one becomes simple when you focus on what truly matters for your business.

Picking Best UAE Freezone For Your Business

While freezones differ in dozens of ways, the 80/20 rule applies perfectly here – 80% of your success depends on just three critical factors. These are:

• Your Business Activity – what you can and cannot do
• Your Budget – beyond the advertised prices
• Location Practicality – when it matters and when it doesn’t

Master these, and the rest becomes secondary. Let’s focus on what actually moves the needle for your business.

1. Your Business Activity 

Gone are the days when all free zones allowed everything. Your entire business model might need adjustment based on what’s permitted. 

While multiple freezones permit various financial and professional activities, only specific ones provide the robust frameworks and ecosystems needed for complex operations.

Some freezones operate under their own comprehensive regulations, offering frameworks based on English common law and housing complete business ecosystems. This becomes crucial when your operations involve regulated activities, digital assets, or innovative financial solutions. 

Beyond the basic license permissions, it’s crucial to understand how each freezone supports complex operations. 

While some offer regulatory sandboxes for testing new solutions, others provide established frameworks for traditional activities. The key is matching your operational needs with the freezone’s regulatory and infrastructural capabilities.

Here’s what to verify before choosing:

• Specific activities permitted under your license type
• Regulatory requirements and compliance frameworks
• Access to necessary market infrastructure
• Integration possibilities with local systems
• Growth and expansion pathways

The cost implications can be significant but necessary – specialized freezones typically have higher setup and licensing fees. However, they provide the regulatory clarity and market access essential for sophisticated operations in the UAE.

2. Your Budget

When businesses compare UAE freezones, they often focus solely on license fees – which range from AED 10,000 to 50,000. But focusing only on these headline numbers misses the bigger picture. The real costs include registration fees (different for each freezone), legal documentation, and attestation (around AED 5,000).

Your essential first-year costs include:

• Initial license and registration (Including regulatory fees)
• Legal documentation and attestation
• Pre-approval fees
• Establishment card costs
• Trade name registration
• Initial visa processing
• Basic facility setup

While many freezones advertise attractive first-year packages, the real test comes in year two when renewal costs often increase substantially. 

A realistic approach is to map out costs over three years. Here’s a practical framework: 

• Year 1: Initial setup + operating costs 
• Year 2: License renewal + expected growth costs 
• Year 3: License renewal + expected growth costs + Factor in potential expansion needs

Facilities and Visas

Your choice of facility directly impacts how many people you can bring on board and how effectively your team can operate. 

• A flexi-desk typically allows 2-3 visas in Dubai, while northern emirates tend to be more generous, making them cost-effective for staff-heavy operations. 
• For physical offices, the standard ratio across Dubai freezones is one visa per 9-10 square meters.

A flexi-desk might cost AED 15,000-25,000 annually, while a small office of 200 square feet can exceed AED 50,000 per year. 

Larger spaces come with custom pricing structures. Your business type and growth plans should drive this decision – not just current budget constraints.

Other regular operational costs include:

• Annual regulatory compliance costs
• Bank minimum balance requirements (AED 10,000-50,000)
• License and permit renewals
• Facility maintenance and service charges
• Visa quota management
• Professional fees (audit, legal)
• Technology and infrastructure costs

This longer view often reveals that the cheapest initial option isn’t always the most cost-effective.

3. Freezone Location 

Location only matters when it directly affects your money or operations. But when it matters, it matters significantly.

The real question isn’t “which is the best location?” but rather “what location features actually impact your business?”

Premium locations command premium prices – but does your business model justify the investment? 

For regulated activities and sophisticated operations, being in established financial districts provides proximity to regulators, access to specialized infrastructure, and integration into professional networks that could prove invaluable.

Other Tips on Picking Best Location

When picking a location, don’t forget to take advantage of (if any) connections you have in the free zones you’ve shortlisted. Current freezone tenants offer insights no brochure will mention. 

They know about the real response times from authorities, the hidden operational challenges, and the true benefits of different locations. Look for businesses similar to yours – their experiences often predict your own journey.

If you are still confused, start by looking at where your target clients are already doing business. If most of your potential clients are in one freezone, there’s often a good reason for it. The ecosystem benefits – from networking to business development – can outweigh pure cost considerations.

Other Factors

While the core factors determine your primary freezone choice, several secondary elements can significantly impact your long-term operations. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they can make the difference between smooth operations and constant friction.

After Picking Freezone in UAE – Next Steps

So you’ve picked your freezone – congratulations on clearing that first hurdle! But here’s where things get interesting, especially for financial institutions.

Setting up financial operations in the UAE means adapting to well-structured regulations that protect market quality. Each freezone has its own distinct framework designed to maintain the region’s high standards. 

While these robust regulations ensure market integrity, managing multiple compliance requirements across customer onboarding, transactions, and document verifications can be complex for growing institutions. Traditional manual processes, though thorough, often struggle to keep pace with UAE’s dynamic financial sector.

Signzy helps financial institutions streamline these challenges with automated KYC, business verification, and identity check solutions designed specifically for UAE freezone requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does choosing a premium freezone like DIFC actually matter for financial operations? 

A: Yes. Premium freezones offer specialized regulatory frameworks, stronger banking relationships, and established financial ecosystems – crucial advantages that often justify higher costs.

2. How long does the freezone setup process typically take? 

A: Standard setup takes 2-3 weeks. Regulated financial activities may require additional 2-4 weeks for specific approvals and licensing.

3. Can financial institutions operate across multiple UAE freezones?

Yes, but each presence requires separate licensing and compliance frameworks. Most institutions start with one primary location for operational efficiency.

4. Are there restrictions on changing freezones later? 

Yes. Moving between freezones requires new licensing and may affect existing permits. Strategic initial choice saves significant future costs.

The UAE is an exclusive hub where ambition meets opportunity, and the best part? 

You’re invited. 

Tax benefits, infrastructure, strategic location, and what not – UAE loves to give VIP treatment to businesses operating there.

With foreign entrepreneurs now able to own 100% of their mainland companies, the possibilities are endless.

However, accessing this prosperous economy requires one key: the Emirates ID. 

Without it, you’re basically stuck outside, even if you live here. 

• Want to open a bank account? Show the ID. 
• Need to set up a new business? Show the ID. 
• Opening a subsidiary company? Show. The. ID. 

It’s an essential pass that lets you function your business in the country. 

In 2024, the rules for getting this ID are straightforward, but missing a step means risking delays, fines, or just a ton of headaches. Here’s the real deal on how to get your Emirates ID and avoid being locked out of the system. 

Let’s break it down, step by step.

Why Your Emirates ID Matters in 2024

Before we explain how to apply, let’s talk about why the Emirates ID is so important. This small card is your main form of identification in the UAE, helping you with everything from government services to banking. The uses of Emirates ID have grown a lot recently. Now, you can use it for digital signatures, traveling within GCC countries, and more.

For both businesses and individuals, being able to do Emirates ID verification has made many processes much easier, from hiring new employees to accessing various services. As the UAE continues to become more digitally connected, your Emirates ID is your key to smooth interactions with both government and private organizations.

Who Needs an Emirates ID and What You Need to Prepare

Everyone who lives in the UAE is required to have an Emirates ID. There are a few documents you’ll need to obtain before you apply. What you require is based on who you are:

Business owners or investors would first need to complete their business setup process, obtain the appropriate visa, and then apply for the Emirates ID as any other expatriate resident would.

Here’s a helpful tip: Make sure your passport and visa will be valid for at least six months when you apply. This can help you avoid delays or needing an Emirates ID renewal too soon after you get it.

Understanding What It Costs

The price of your Emirates ID depends on how long it’s valid for:

Additional fees applicable to all groups:

• Application fees: 30 AED (USD 11)
• AED 30: Typing Center fee

You might need to pay extra if you get help at a typing center.

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Applying Online through the ICP Website

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has made it easier to start your Emirates ID application online. Here’s what you do:

1. Create an account on the official ICP website
2. Complete the application form with accurate personal details
3. Upload required documents
4. Select a center for biometric data collection
5. Pay fees online via credit card or e-Dirham

Here’s a helpful tip: Keep the application number they give you, also known as PRAN (Personal Registration Acknowledgment Number) or transaction number. You’ll need it for Emirates ID tracking to check your Emirates ID status as you go along.

• Giving Your Fingerprints and Photo

After you apply online, you’ll need to visit an ICP center to:

• Have your fingerprints scanned
• Get your photo taken
• Give your signature (if you’re over 15)

Remember to bring your original documents with you. Don’t worry, this part usually only takes about 15-20 minutes.

• Keeping Track of Your Application

You will have to wait a little while after providing your fingerprints and photo. But don’t worry – it’s easy to see how your application is going. You can check your Emirates ID status:

• On the ICP website via your application number
• On the ICP mobile app
• Through SMS if you signed up for that service

Usually, it takes between 3 and 10 working days to process, depending on what kind of application you made and how busy they are.

• Getting Your Emirates ID

When your card is ready, you’ll get a message on your phone or an email. You can pick it up within 90 days at:

• Some Emirates Post offices
• ICP customer happiness centers

Don’t forget to bring the receipt they gave you when you applied and another ID to prove who you are.

Emirates ID Renewal: What You Need to Know

If you already have an Emirates ID, you’ll need to renew it periodically. The process is similar to the initial application but often simpler. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. When to Renew:

• UAE Nationals and GCC Residents: Every 5 years
• Expatriates: Typically, every 2-3 years, aligning with your visa renewal

It’s wise to start the renewal process about a month before your current ID expires. This gives you plenty of time to handle any unexpected issues.

2. How to Renew:

1. Visit the ICP website or app
2. Choose the renewal option
3. Update your information if needed
4. Pay the renewal fee
5. Schedule a biometrics appointment if required (usually not necessary for straightforward renewals)

Keeping your Emirates ID up to date helps you avoid any interruptions in accessing important services.

Common Challenges and How to Solve Them

Even with careful preparation, you might face some difficulties. Don’t worry – we’re here to help you through them.

1. Application Errors: If you make a mistake on your application, don’t panic. You can often correct minor errors by contacting the ICP support team. For major changes, you might need to submit a new application.
2. Document Issues:

• Verify requirements on ICP website
• Update documents if necessary
• Seek assistance at ICP service center

3. Delays in Processing: If your application seems to be taking longer than expected:

• Use Emirates ID tracking for status updates
• Contact ICP helpline if needed
• Allow for possible temporary backlogs

4. Emirates ID Fine Check: These could occur due to late renewal or unreported loss. To check for any fines:

• Visit the ICP website
• Use the Emirates ID fine check service
• Provide your ID number or application number

Bottomline 

For businesses operating in the UAE, verifying the Emirates ID of your users or clients is often a necessary step. To streamline this process, Signzy offers an Emirates ID validation API. It:

• enables quick and secure validation of Emirates IDs
• enhances your customer onboarding process
• ensures compliance with local regulations while reducing manual verification efforts

There you have it – your guide to the Emirates ID and how it fits into your UAE business journey. Dive in, get that ID, and enjoy the Emirates!

FAQs

• Can I apply for an Emirates ID before arriving in the UAE?

No, you must be physically present in the UAE to complete the application process. However, you can start the online application before arrival. The biometric data collection and final steps must be done in person within the UAE.

• What happens if my Emirates ID application is rejected?

If rejected, you’ll be notified via SMS or email. Common reasons include incomplete documentation or discrepancies in information. Review the rejection reason, correct the issues, and resubmit. For business-critical situations, consider seeking assistance from a PRO service.

• Is the Emirates ID linked to my business license?

While not directly linked, your Emirates ID is crucial for business operations. It’s required for opening corporate bank accounts, applying for business licenses, and processing employee visas. Always keep it updated to avoid disruptions to your business activities.

• Can I use my Emirates ID for travel within the GCC? 

Yes, UAE residents can use their Emirates ID for travel within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This facilitates easier business travel and networking opportunities within the region, supporting your business expansion goals