Dubai has unveiled Founders HQ, a new flagship initiative designed to strengthen the city’s startup and SME ecosystem, aligning with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, Founders HQ aims to consolidate the city’s entrepreneurship landscape under one collaborative platform, combining a physical campus with a digital ecosystem connecting founders, investors and corporates.
Developed jointly by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the initiative is positioned as Dubai’s first “phygital” startup hub. More than 25 public and private sector partners have joined, spanning venture capital, financial services, technology, telecommunications and innovation hubs.
During his visit to the campus at the 25Hours Hotel in One Central, Sheikh Hamdan said entrepreneurship remains a core driver of sustainable economic growth and innovation. He emphasised the importance of empowering founders and transforming ideas into scalable success stories that reinforce Dubai’s position as a global innovation capital.
Founders HQ supports the D33 target of scaling 30 unicorns — startups valued at over $1 billion — and helping 400 SMEs expand by 2033. Through strategic partnerships with leading local and global ecosystem players, the initiative aims to streamline access to funding, mentorship, and business support for founders at all stages of growth.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, said the launch marks “a significant milestone in positioning Dubai as a global hub for digital entrepreneurship.”
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, said the initiative demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to an economy driven by creativity and innovation. “By consolidating resources across the ecosystem, Founders HQ provides a launchpad for the next generation of pioneering entrepreneurs who will shape high-impact businesses aligned with Dubai’s future economy,” he said.
Acting as both a gateway and growth engine, Dubai Founders HQ offers seamless entry for global startups looking to establish in the emirate, supported by licensing guidance, setup assistance and sector-specific insight.-WAM
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