His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched major expansion projects at Dubai Silicon Oasis, committing AED12.8 billion to strengthen the emirate’s knowledge economy and reinforce its position as a global hub for innovation and future technologies.
The launch underscores Dubai’s long-term strategy to build a sustainable, innovation-led economy aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Sheikh Mohammed said the expansion reflects Dubai’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies that serve people, the economy, and society, while maintaining an open environment for global talent and high-value investment.
The projects were unveiled in the presence of senior leaders and officials, including H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority.
The expansion includes two flagship developments: District IO and Block 14. District IO represents the largest share of investment at AED11 billion and is designed as a future-focused hub for research, development, and innovation. It will feature 25 LEED-compliant buildings, host more than 6,500 companies, and focus on sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing, Web3, and smart mobility. The project is expected to create over 70,000 jobs and contribute up to AED103 billion to Dubai’s GDP by 2036.
Block 14, a AED1.8 billion residential and lifestyle development, will support transit-oriented urban living near the Dubai Metro Blue Line, with completion targeted for 2029.
During the visit, Sheikh Mohammed also toured key facilities within Dubai Silicon Oasis, including Fakeeh University Hospital and a pioneering drone delivery project, highlighting the area’s integrated live-work innovation ecosystem.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
