Ziad Makkawi launched his career on Wall Street, New York, in 1986 with JP Morgan, where he earned recognition as an innovative leader in financial services. In 2000, he left New York to build businesses in Dubai, leaving behind a stable career in New York to explore opportunities. Additionally, Ziad founded an array of firms that transformed the MENA region’s financial structure.

Makkawi took on the task of creating and overseeing the financial services branch of SHUAA Capital in Dubai. Asset management, capital markets, proprietary trading, research, and brokerage operations were all under his direction.

His visionary leadership has contributed to establishing Dubai as a magnet for startups and innovators.

He moved to Dubai during the early 2000s. Makkawi recognised something others had not yet fully grasped. The city was still young and transforming into a global economy, with the potential to rival major financial centers. At a time when “business setup in Dubai” was still emerging as a new word, Makkawi made his mark by founding Algebra Capital, an investment management firm that became instrumental in introducing global best practices to the region. Under his leadership, Algebra Capital focused on asset management, tapping into regional growth and global investor interest.

His strategic insight didn’t stop there. Makkawi later served as Dubai Bank’s CEO. Isn’t this remarkable for someone who reinvented his career in a new region? He played a crucial part in guiding the organisation through innovation and regional growth. Under its management, the bank broke even in its second full year of operation and generated a 21% return to investors in its third year of operation. Ziad Makkawi played a key role in making Dubai a top choice for global investors and entrepreneurs. He helped bring in advanced financial tools and improved banking rules, which made the Gulf region’s banking system more modern and attractive to international businesses.

But his story doesn’t end there. There are more feathers to his cap that you should know.

As of 2025, Ziad Makkawi continues to play a significant role in the MENA region’s financial and technological sectors. He serves as the founder and CEO of EQUIAM, a San Francisco-based investment firm that leverages data-driven strategies to revolutionise venture capital investing. In addition to his entrepreneurial work, Ziad Makkawi serves on the board and as a member of the Investment Committee for the Dubai Government’s $200 million Venture Capital initiative, an effort focused on expanding the startup and innovation ecosystem across the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Ziad is so committed to strengthening the region’s entrepreneurial and venture capital landscape. This is reflected in his upcoming appearance as a speaker at SuperReturn Middle East 2025, where he will speak about his journey and share insights drawn from his extensive experience in shaping innovation-driven ecosystems.

Dubai is becoming the go-to choice for global investors and startups due to its offering a friendly setup, tax perks, advanced infrastructure, and futuristic tech infrastructure. Leaders like Ziad Makkawi are shaping big changes, but hands-on local support remains a game-changer.

That’s where comes in for the support.

E-startup helps entrepreneurs handle the complex legal, financial, and administrative procedures of low cost business setup in Dubai. The company has ten years of experience and a thorough understanding of the regulatory environment. Our staff guarantees a positive experience for business owners from all over the world, whether it’s obtaining trade permits, helping you register corporate bank accounts or exploring a low cost business setup in Dubai.

Ziad Makkawi’s career journey shows a harmonious blend of deep-rooted values, principles and bold innovation. His success shows how some decisions can lead to visionary growth. From building capital markets to advising on blockchain-led ventures, his journey reflects the vast opportunities Dubai offers for the upcoming age of innovators.

Real estate and tourism are no longer the only faces of Dubai. It is now an epicentre for startups, tech, and finance. Events that highlight the city’s drive for innovation and entrepreneurship include the Dubai FinTech Summit 2025. And as the demand for business setups in Dubai continues to grow. So, E-startup bridges the gap between your ambition and action. We aim to help entrepreneurs not only dream big but to launch a business efficiently. Low cost business setup in Dubai makes it easier than ever to turn ideas into reality.

Don’t worry, at E-Startup, our team is dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs like you turn their dreams into reality. Our experienced team handles everything, from documentation assistance to offering transparent pricing and reliable support for business setup in the UAE. Book a consultation with our Dubai business setup experts today or WhatsApp us at +971554884712. 

Ziad Makkawi’s story serves as a reminder that one person’s vision and faith in his ability can illuminate the route to success.