The New Economy Academy, in partnership with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), has launched a Financial Literacy Programme to give business owners the practical financial knowledge, digital tools and resource management skills needed to grow sustainably.
The launch follows a cooperation agreement signed in Dubai by Dr. Laila Faridoon, CEO of the New Economy Academy, and Saoud AlJassem, Chief of Commercial Banking at DIB. The programme aligns with the UAE National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2026 to 2030 and forms part of “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World” national campaign launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
It aims to train more than 500 entrepreneurs across two cohorts, within the wider Entrepreneurship Programme, which targets 10,000 Emiratis over five years. The hands-on model combines financial management principles with modern AI tools and operational sustainability practices.
Four pillars shape the curriculum. The first covers financial planning, including budgeting, expense management and forecasting. The second focuses on financial behaviours, such as optimising resources, cutting waste and setting short and long-term goals. The third looks at using AI for financial analysis, reporting, forecasting and cost management. The fourth centres on investment and future planning, preparing participants for funding and scaling.
Dr. Faridoon said empowering SMEs starts with equipping entrepreneurs with modern financial and technological tools to make informed investment decisions.
AlJassem said strengthening the financial capabilities of SMEs is essential to building a more resilient and competitive business environment, and that DIB’s role extends beyond providing banking solutions.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
