Dubai: The UAE has launched a landmark national campaign, “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World,” spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to position the nation as a leading global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.
The campaign, unveiled by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism in collaboration with the UAE Government Media Office and the UAE Council for Entrepreneurship, brings together over 50 government and private entities, business incubators, accelerators, and academic institutions. It is designed to provide a comprehensive ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs, attracts global talent, and strengthens the UAE’s role as a hub for startups and investment.
Speaking at the launch, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, said the initiative reflects the UAE’s leadership vision to build a globally competitive, innovation-driven economy. “This campaign represents a strategic step toward solidifying the UAE’s position as the premier destination for global talent, innovators, and entrepreneurs,” Al Marri said. He stressed that the campaign is backed by robust data, policies, and programmes that ensure youth empowerment and entrepreneurial growth.
The UAE’s efforts come as the nation topped the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2024-2025 report for the fourth consecutive year, ranking first in 11 out of 13 indicators among high-income countries. The country has also made significant investments under the “Projects of the 50” initiative, allocating AED 8.7 billion to promote innovation and support SMEs. Currently, SMEs account for 95% of businesses in the UAE and contribute 63.5% of non-oil GDP.
Key elements of the campaign include the launch of StartupEmirates.ae, a platform that aims to attract 10,000 entrepreneurs and create 30,000 jobs within five years. Other initiatives feature the training of 10,000 Emiratis through an Entrepreneurship Programme, licensing 500 Emiratis as project managers, supporting 250 Emiratis in founding real estate companies, and expanding access for startups to federal procurement systems.
The UAE’s competitive edge lies in its 100% foreign ownership laws, world-class infrastructure, and fast-track digital licensing systems. Combined with a strong network of incubators and accelerators, the nation offers a fertile environment for startups to thrive.
At the accompanying UAE Council for Entrepreneurship meeting, chaired by Al Marri, senior officials from ministries, central banks, development funds, and local economic departments discussed ways to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, support SME growth, and enhance youth participation in the economy. The meeting underlined the importance of public-private-academic collaboration to foster the next generation of entrepreneurs through training, funding, and legislative empowerment.
By launching “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World,” the UAE has reinforced its long-term vision to blend innovation, technology, and sustainability, offering an unmatched platform for entrepreneurs to expand locally and globally.
