Dubai’s leadership has unveiled a sweeping initiative aimed at cementing the UAE’s status as a global hub for entrepreneurship.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, launched “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World,” a campaign designed to empower Emirati youth and accelerate the nation’s economic diversification.
Supervised by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism with support from the UAE Government Media Office and the UAE Entrepreneurship Council, the campaign unites more than 50 incubators, accelerators, and strategic partners from public, private, and academic sectors. Its goal is to train 10,000 Emirati entrepreneurs and create thousands of new economic opportunities.
“The UAE is home to 50 business incubators, and SMEs contribute over 63% of the non-oil GDP. This campaign will inspire young people to launch their own companies and actively participate in economic development,”
Sheikh Mohammed said.
Key initiatives include StartupEmirates.ae, a digital platform offering mentorship, shared workspaces, training programs, and networking opportunities, targeting 10,000 entrepreneurs and 30,000 jobs by 2030. The Entrepreneurship Programme will equip Emiratis with skills from business setup to global expansion, while specialized programs train content creators, project managers, and certified tax agents.
The campaign also supports 250 full-time Emirati real estate companies, a nationwide Young Entrepreneurs & Graduate Business Expo, and enhanced startup participation in federal government procurement. These efforts aim to expand access, streamline procedures, and encourage innovation across sectors.
By creating an integrated ecosystem of training, funding, and exposure, the UAE aims to position itself as a global launchpad for startups, reinforcing its reputation as a forward-looking economy built on innovation and entrepreneurial growth.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
