Dubai Science Park, the Middle East’s leading science-focused hub and a member of TECOM Group, is celebrating two decades of enabling scientific advancement and nurturing the region’s research and development (R&D) landscape. For 20 years, the district has been a cornerstone in strengthening the UAE’s knowledge- and innovation-led economy.
Today, Dubai Science Park is a vibrant ecosystem home to over 90 laboratories and more than 6,500 professionals across the life, energy, and environmental sciences, playing a vital role in achieving the vision of the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’ and We the UAE 2031.
A Strategic Pillar For Dubai’s Knowledge Economy
Since its inception, Dubai Science Park was established with the strategic goal of creating a world-class environment for scientific progress and collaboration. Its contributions have been instrumental in positioning Dubai as a global hub for R&D and innovation.
“Dubai Science Park was founded with a strategic vision to advance knowledge for the greater good, and over the past 20 years, has been instrumental in fostering a world-class environment for scientific innovation and progress,” said Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai Science Park.
“We will continue to attract global businesses, nurture talent, and incubate innovation to contribute towards the long-term goals of Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’, Dubai Research and Development Programme, and We the UAE 2031.”
This mission was further solidified by a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism to strengthen intellectual property protection and accelerate patent registration for innovators within the ecosystem.
Cultivating A Hub For Global Science Leaders
The district has successfully attracted a diverse array of leading global organizations. In the life sciences sector, it hosts industry giants such as AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Boston Scientific, and ThermoFisher Scientific. The community also includes pioneers like Norwegian paints manufacturer Jotun, which operates a key R&D laboratory from its regional headquarters in the park.
Innovation in the fragrance and flavour industry is also a significant focus, with companies like DSM-Firmenich and IFF operating major creative and development centers. The energy sector is well-represented by specialists including Clariant, ExxonMobil, and Phoenix Contact, all driving advancements in oil and gas, renewables, and automation.
Championing green technology, the park is also home to environment-focused companies like Al Wakeel Recycling and Avani Eco, which produces recyclable alternatives to single-use plastics.
Enabling Innovation Through Infrastructure and Incubation
Dubai Science Park’s success is underpinned by its world-class infrastructure, including a LEED-certified Laboratory Complex and over 330,000 sq.ft. of specialised storage and logistics spaces. The district also features D/Quarters, TECOM Group’s flexible co-working spaces catering to businesses of all sizes.
A key driver of a new generation of scientific leaders is in5 Science, a dedicated vertical of Dubai’s leading startup incubator. Launched in collaboration with Dubai Science Park, it supports promising ventures like Detectiome, which is developing an early cancer detection test tailored to the Middle East’s genetic makeup, and RelphaCare, a healthtech company focused on minimising medical errors.
Fostering Community and Collaboration
To facilitate knowledge exchange and high-level networking, Dubai Science Park runs The DSP Leadership Network, an invitation-only community for senior professionals in the science ecosystem.
The district also actively builds bridges between industry and academia. A recent example is the partnership between the University of Birmingham Dubai and in5 Science startup Mentra to advance research into AI-enabled mental health solutions for students, showcasing the park’s commitment to fostering impactful collaborations.
About Dubai Science Park
Part of TECOM Group, Dubai Science Park is the Middle East’s leading science-focused business district. It is home to global corporations, SMEs, and startups across the life sciences, energy, and environment sectors. The park provides a supportive ecosystem with cutting-edge infrastructure, including laboratories, offices, and logistics facilities, to foster R&D, innovation, and collaboration.
Source: Zawya
