Emirates NBD, a major banking group in the MENAT region, recently hosted its NDTI Founders Summit 2026 to celebrate the graduation of Cohorts 4 and 5 from its National Digital Talent Incubator (NDTI). The event showcased a new generation of Emirati entrepreneurs building ventures in FinTech, AI, and digital commerce.
Quick Facts
- 22 founders graduated across five cohorts.
- The summit marks the program’s two-year milestone.
- Focus is on Emirati-led digital and FinTech ventures.
Fostering a New Generation of Entrepreneurs
Launched to accelerate the growth of Emirati digital entrepreneurs, the NDTI program provides founders with structured mentorship, industry access, and strategic guidance from Emirates NBD’s leadership. The initiative, supported by strategic partner Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), connects participants with specialists in strategy, technology, and venture development to help them refine business models and connect with investors.
Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, said, “The NDTI Founders Summit 2026 represents a significant milestone in Emirates NBD’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s dynamic, innovation-driven digital economy. Through the NDTI, we are investing in the next generation of Emirati entrepreneurs who will help shape the future of financial services and the broader digital economy.”
A Thriving UAE FinTech Market
The summit highlights the UAE’s growing position as a hub for FinTech innovation. According to a 2025 report by Emirates NBD and PwC, local FinTech startups attracted approximately $265 million in 2024, accounting for nearly one-third of the country’s total startup funding.
The report projects the local FinTech market will expand from $3.16 billion in 2024 to $5.71 billion by 2029, driven by strong consumer adoption and partnerships between the public and private sectors.
A Platform for Growth and Collaboration
The NDTI Founders Summit 2026 featured showcases from emerging founders and discussions with ecosystem partners, giving entrepreneurs direct exposure to investors and corporate leaders.
Hoor Al Katheeri, CEO and Founder of HAAY and an alumna of the program, commented, “Being part of the NDTI program has been transformative for our journey as founders. The mentorship, industry insights and access to the Emirates NBD ecosystem have been invaluable in helping us develop and grow our venture.”
About Emirates NBD
Emirates NBD (DFM: Emirates NBD) is a leading banking group in the MENAT (Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye) region with a presence in 13 countries, serving over 10 million active customers. As at 31st March 2026, total assets were AED 1.2 trillion, (equivalent to approx. USD 327 billion). The Group has operations in the UAE, Egypt, India, Türkiye, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Austria, Germany, Russia and Bahrain and representative offices in China and Indonesia. The Group is a key participant in the global digital banking industry with 97% of all financial transactions and requests conducted outside of its branches. It also operates Liv, the lifestyle digital bank by Emirates NBD.
Source: Zawya
