The Ministry of Economy and Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Community Empowerment, has launched a national initiative to train and qualify 1,000 entrepreneurs from Emirati families across the UAE.
The programme aims to strengthen their capabilities in entrepreneurship, business establishment, and project management as part of the “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World” campaign, launched under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Implemented by the New Economy Academy in strategic partnership with the National CSR Fund – Majra, the initiative was unveiled during a meeting in Dubai attended by senior officials, including Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Aisha Ahmed Yousef, Sara Shaw, and Dr. Laila Faridoon.
Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri said the initiative reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to empowering innovative entrepreneurs and positioning the country as a leading hub for startups and SMEs. Over five years, around 200 Emirati families will receive training annually, including technical support, business development, and marketing guidance.
According to Al Saleh, the initiative will enable participants to enter the market with strong capabilities, fostering self-reliance and promoting sustainable local production. Yousef highlighted that supporting family entrepreneurs aligns with the Ministry of Community Empowerment’s “From Care to Empowerment” strategy and the UAE Centennial 2071 goals.
Majra CEO Sara Shaw and New Economy Academy CEO Dr. Laila Faridoon underscored the programme’s focus on knowledge economy tools, sustainable growth, and competitive production standards. The number of Emirati family entrepreneurs rose to 3,307 in 2024, marking a 4.5 percent annual growth, underscoring the sector’s expanding role in the nation’s economic landscape.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
