Navigating the world of business setup in a city as dynamic as Dubai requires a deep understanding of both local regulations and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives success. Mariben Christine Tan Eustaquio, as the Founder and Managing Director of EZONE Business Setup, has spent nearly 15 years honing these skills. Her journey in Dubai, however, began not as a career move but as a personal one, following her husband’s work assignment. “I came because my husband was assigned here 15 years ago, and since then, Dubai has become our second home,” she reflects, unaware at the time that she would soon embark on a path to guide entrepreneurs toward success.
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Eustaquio’s career has been nothing short of diverse and enriching. With three bachelor’s degrees in Psychology, Legal Management, and Nursing, she was a registered nurse in the Philippines. Yet, life had different plans for her. “I initially worked in the financial industry after university,” she recalled. Armed with Series 7 and Series 63 licenses from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) in the US, she began her career as a stockbroker. However, her journey took a sharp turn when she relocated to Dubai, choosing to focus on raising her three young children at the time.
Eventually, Mariben ventured into a field unfamiliar to her—business setup. “When I began my career in Dubai, I found myself in a completely new and unfamiliar field—Business Setup,” she explained. The shift was both challenging and rewarding. It allowed her to use her legal background in unexpected ways and opened her eyes to a passion for supporting fellow entrepreneurs. What truly stood out to her were the people she met along the way. “I saw them face challenges, experience failures, and ultimately succeed because of their unwavering belief in their dreams. Their resilience and passion deeply inspired me,” she shared. This connection to people, their dreams, and their growth became the foundation of her work at EZONE.
Empowering entrepreneurs: A career with purpose
Mariben found her calling in helping people transform their dreams into reality. As the head of EZONE Business Setup, she works with aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to step outside their comfort zones. “What I truly enjoy about my current career is witnessing the transformation that happens when people take the leap to follow their dreams,” she said. Her role is more than just setting up businesses—it’s about nurturing growth, resilience, and self-discovery among the entrepreneurs she works with. “They grow in ways they didn’t expect, developing new skills, building resilience, and finding a deeper sense of purpose.”
This dedication stems from her belief in the transformative power of entrepreneurship. “I’m passionate about entrepreneurship and the incredible impact it has on individuals and society,” she emphasized. She sees her work as part of a larger mission to shape the future not only of the entrepreneurs she supports but also of the communities they contribute to. This is especially evident in her passion for the UAE, which has provided her with a platform to pursue her own dreams while helping others. “The UAE has created a space where everyone can feel at home, even if it’s not their home country,” Mariben remarked.
Living in Dubai has given her the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and learn from their diverse cultures. “It’s remarkable how the UAE fosters an environment where anyone, regardless of their nationality or background, can be who they want, pursue what they’re passionate about, and achieve success without limits,” she added. She credits Dubai’s welcoming and inclusive nature for enabling her to grow as an entrepreneur and an individual, while also giving back to the community she loves. “More importantly, the UAE has given me the opportunity to become an entrepreneur and grow in ways I never imagined,” she said.
Overcoming struggles and finding strength
Like many overseas workers, Mariben’s journey has not been without challenges. She candidly shared the struggles she faced before settling into her new life. “Life often throws unexpected challenges our way,” she reflected. Whether it was career setbacks or personal crises, she learned that the way we respond to these obstacles defines who we are. “What kept me going was the belief that each challenge was a lesson—a stepping stone to becoming a better version of myself,” she said.
Her greatest source of strength came from her support network—her family, mentors, and friends. “I wasn’t alone during these tough times. I had the unwavering support of my family, mentors, and friends who believed in me even when I doubted myself,” Mariben noted. With their guidance, she was able to navigate difficult moments and grow both personally and professionally.
One of the most important lessons she has learned is the value of protecting her mental health. “I realized that it’s okay to step away from situations or environments that no longer serve us,” she explained. By prioritizing her well-being, she was able to maintain her passion for her work and continue empowering others.
Inspiring fellow Filipinos
Looking ahead, Mariben has no immediate plans to leave Dubai. The UAE has become her family’s home, and it offers them a sense of security and growth. But her focus is shifting towards giving back, particularly to the Filipino community in the UAE. “I’m passionate about supporting my fellow Filipinos here in the UAE,” she said, adding that she actively participates in nonprofit organizations like the Philippine Business Council and the Filipino Social Club.
Mariben hopes to inspire other Filipinos to take pride in who they are and what they can achieve. “My hope is to inspire Filipinos to inspire one another—to take pride in who we are and where we come from,” she emphasized. Through her work, she aims to uplift the Filipino image globally, showcasing their resilience, talent, and culture.
Her advice to fellow kababayans (countrymen) who are struggling abroad is simple but powerful: “Practice the attitude of gratitude.” For her, gratitude is not just about appreciating the good things in life but recognizing the lessons and growth that come from challenges. “Gratitude should be woven into the fabric of our daily lives,” she said, adding that it opens the heart to positivity and blessings.
This article has been published in Volume 5, Issue 4 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.
