Dubai has launched a major initiative to accelerate startup and SME growth with the unveiling of Dubai Founders HQ — a first-of-its-kind platform designed to empower entrepreneurs with the tools to launch, scale and thrive in a competitive market.
The initiative features a dynamic 'phygital’ model', combining a physical innovation campus with a full-scale digital ecosystem, bringing together startups, investors, corporates and enablers under one roof.
Launched under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, Dubai Founders HQ aims to help scale 30 unicorns and support 400 high-potential SMEs by 2033.
It's a joint effort by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.
The platform was unveiled on Monday by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, during a visit to Dubai Founders HQ at the 25Hours Hotel in One Central, Dubai World Trade Centre.
More than 25 leading public and private sector partners are already on board, offering services like mentorship, venture building, business setup, licensing support and investor access.
Hamdan bin Mohammed: Today, I launched Dubai Founders HQ, a joint initiative of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, which aims to strengthen Dubai’s startup and SME ecosystem. The platform unites efforts to help 30 startups… pic.twitter.com/2qBte341HT
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 6, 2025
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