Emirates Development Bank (EDB) has premiered “The Multiplier Effect,” a new documentary that shifts the narrative from financial metrics to the personal journeys fueling the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Co-developed with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology’s “Make it in the Emirates” initiative and the Ministry of Economy and Tourism’s “Startup Capital of the World” campaign, the film showcases how national policy and strategic support create tangible impact for founders across the country.
The Human Stories Driving National Strategy
Instead of traditional economic analysis, “The Multiplier Effect” focuses on three individuals whose businesses and personal experiences align with the UAE’s goals for industrial transformation and diversification.
One story follows Rashid Al Sulmi, founder of SULMI and a graduate of the Make it in the Emirates Accelerator. The documentary chronicles his journey of building the UAE’s first electric motorbike from a garage workshop into a growing startup that contributes to the nation’s mobility and advanced manufacturing sectors.
Another segment features Bodour Al Tamimi, founder of Pure Soil. Her personal battle with an autoimmune disease inspired her to launch an organic, UAE-made food brand, illustrating how personal challenges can fuel sustainable businesses that support national food security ambitions.
The film also highlights the story of Hiba Orfahli, who survived cancer after a pioneering scarless surgical procedure at Oriana Hospital in Sharjah, a healthcare facility backed by EDB. Her recovery underscores the broader human impact of strategic investments in healthcare innovation.
A Development Bank’s Broader Impact
Speaking at the premiere, H.E. Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, emphasized the documentary’s goal to illustrate the real-world value of development banking.
“The Multiplier Effect highlights the people and ideas driving the UAE’s economic transformation,” he said. “At EDB, our mission is straightforward: when we finance growth, the nation grows. Every business we support contributes to jobs, innovation, and long-term value for the country. This film shows that impact clearly.”
Since launching its revised strategy in 2021, EDB has provided over AED 22.6 billion in financing, supported the creation of more than 38,000 jobs, and contributed over AED 10 billion to the UAE’s industrial GDP. The film also highlights the bank’s ecosystem-building initiatives beyond finance, such as its AGRIX and Make it in the Emirates accelerators, which provide founders with market access, mentorship, and vital networks.
A Vision for a People-Centric Economy
H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Nuaimi, Assistant Undersecretary for Entrepreneurship and Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, reinforced the importance of focusing on people to drive economic development.
“The UAE’s vision for economic growth is fundamentally people-centric,” he stated. “We measure success not only by outputs, but by the human spirit and resilience—the founders who take risks, innovate, and shape new industries. The stories featured in this film show exactly what our ecosystem enables and how it inspires many more to contribute to a diversified, future-ready economy.”
“The Multiplier Effect” will be available for streaming on STARZPLAY starting December 2.
About Emirates Development Bank
Emirates Development Bank (EDB) is a key financial enabler of the UAE’s economic diversification and industrial transformation agenda. As the UAE’s development bank, it provides financial and non-financial support to businesses and startups across key priority sectors, driving sustainable economic growth and fostering innovation within the nation.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
