Dubai SME has launched the Hi2 Incubator Programme, a 16-week initiative delivered by the Hamdan Innovation Incubator designed to empower ambitious Emirati founders. The program helps early-stage entrepreneurs turn innovative tech ideas and Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) into scalable, investable businesses.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Incubator Program
- For: Emirati startup founders with early-stage tech concepts, prototypes, or MVPs
- Key Benefits: 16 weeks of structured incubator support, business model validation, go-to-market coaching, and investor readiness
- Application Deadline: August 31, 2026
- Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Incubator Program Overview
The Hi2 Incubator Programme, delivered under the Hamdan Innovation Incubator (Hi2) at Dubai SME, offers an intensive 16-week growth pathway tailored specifically for national tech innovators. Participants will build alongside a cohort of ambitious Emirati entrepreneurs while gaining direct access to seasoned founders, industry experts, and mentors. Designed to guide startups systematically from initial concept validation through pitch refinement, the program equips founders with the practical tools and strategic confidence needed to commercialize their tech solutions and secure investment.
Key Benefits
- Expert Mentorship: Work directly alongside experienced entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and specialized business mentors.
- Business & GTM Validation: Refine your value proposition, test product-market fit, and map out an effective go-to-market strategy.
- Investor Preparedness: Receive hands-on coaching to optimize your business model, build pitch decks, and prepare for investor discussions.
- Ecosystem Immersion: Collaborate within a peer cohort of Emirati founders while leveraging Dubai SME’s extensive network of resources, corporate connections, and setup guidance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to Emirati startup founders and entrepreneurs.
- Projects must focus on technology-driven solutions at the early-stage, prototype, or MVP level.
- Applicants must be committed to actively engaging in the full 16-week incubator schedule in Dubai.
How to Apply
Ready to transform your tech startup concept into an investable business? Take your idea further and join Dubai’s thriving innovation community by submitting your application before August 31, 2026.
To submit your application, complete the official registration form: Hi2 Incubator Application Portal
About Dubai SME
Dubai SME, an agency of the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai, was established to nurture the entrepreneurial ecosystem and accelerate the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises in the emirate. Through flagship initiatives like the Hamdan Innovation Incubator (Hi2) and Dubai Founders HQ, Dubai SME provides business setup support, incubation, specialized advisory services, and financing access to empower Emirati entrepreneurs to build globally competitive companies.
Learn More: Dubai Founders HQ
