Virtual Key
About Company
Virtual Key was founded in October 2021 with a simple idea: HR should help businesses grow, not slow them down.
After seeing many startups and small businesses in the UAE struggle with hiring, compliance, and daily HR tasks, it became clear that they needed expert HR support — but without the cost or complexity of building a full in-house HR team.
That’s how Virtual Key was created. We work as an agile and reliable HR partner for growing businesses. From recruitment and HR outsourcing to consulting and HR technology support, we help founders build strong teams, stay compliant, and create healthy workplaces.
Today, Virtual Key supports more than 150 startups and SMEs across the UAE. With a 97% client satisfaction rate and a 90% retention rate, our results show that ethical, personalised HR support makes a real difference.
We act as your HR department — without the need to hire one.
Our Vision, Mission & Goal
Our Vision
To be the most trusted and affordable HR partner for SMEs across the UAE and GCC by simplifying HR through ethical practices, clear systems, and a responsive boutique team.
Our Mission
To help businesses build structured, compliant, and efficient workplaces by delivering transparent and high-quality HR solutions — from recruitment to full HR outsourcing — so founders can focus on growing their business.
Our Goal
To give entrepreneurs the freedom to focus on strategy and innovation while we manage their HR operations, ensuring every business we support is confident, compliant, and ready to scale.
Our Core Values
Simplicity
HR should be clear and easy to manage. We provide practical solutions that are simple to understand and implement.
Integrity
We work with honesty, fairness, and transparency in every partnership.
Agility
Startups move fast — and we do too. We respond quickly and adapt our solutions to match your pace.
People-First Approach
People are at the heart of every business. We focus on employee experience, workplace culture, and real human connection.
Partnership
We work closely with founders as long-term partners, not just service providers.
What We Offer
Virtual Key provides end-to-end HR support, including recruitment, HR management, compliance, consulting, training, and leadership support. Whether you’re hiring your first employee or building structured HR systems, we’re here to help.
For a detailed breakdown, visit our Services page.
Why Businesses Choose Virtual Key
Founder-Friendly – We understand startup challenges and work closely with business owners
Cost-Effective & Scalable – Get expert HR support without building a full HR team
Compliance-Focused – We help you stay aligned with UAE labour laws and best practices
Flexible Solutions – Our services adapt as your business grows
People-Centric Culture – We care about both employers and employees
Meet Our Founder
Ms. Amruta Heblikar
Founder
From leaving her hometown to study in London to leading HR teams across the UK, India, and the UAE, Amruta Heblikar has always believed in building people-first workplaces.
With over 17 years of international HR experience, an MA in Marketing, and a Diploma in Human Resources Management, she has supported businesses through growth, change, and compliance across multiple markets.
After the pandemic, Amruta noticed a clear gap: many businesses needed reliable HR support, but not the cost or complexity of hiring a full in-house team. This insight led to the launch of Virtual Key in 2021.
Today, Virtual Key supports startups and SMEs with recruitment, HR outsourcing, and HR consulting — offering flexible and expert HR solutions tailored to growing businesses.
“We become your HR department — without hiring one.”
Known for her relationship-driven leadership style and strong compliance expertise, Amruta believes every business deserves ethical, structured, and practical HR support to grow with confidence.
17+ years HR experience | 150+ UAE businesses supported | 97% client satisfaction
Our Fractional Director – Growth & Partnerships
Ms. Shivanee Deshpande
Fractional Director
Shivanee Deshpande is a people and growth leader with nearly 10 years of experience across India, the UK, and the UAE. She specialises in recruitment, talent strategy, and HR transformation.
She holds an MBA in International Human Resource Management from Coventry University, London, and brings a global perspective to building strong teams and scalable people strategies.
Shivanee is also the Founder of TalentNest Consulting, a people-first HR and training firm focused on helping professionals upskill while supporting organisations in attracting and developing the right talent. Her work includes learning and development, leadership training, and personal branding.
She actively contributes to global HR communities, speaks at universities, writes on leadership and the future of work, and serves on the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council.
