In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dubai-based Creative Zone extended its networking portal 'CZ Connect 2.0' to include the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) community within the region. The portal, which was exclusive to Creative Zone clients comprising over 36 000 entrepreneurs, now provides a free marketplace for SMEs to engage, exchange ideas, cross-sell products and services, network, and establish meaningful business relationships to stay agile in the market. Creative Zone's initiative aims to assist the United Arab Emirates (UAE) based businesses with a platform to promote products and services for free.