The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, a key entity under the Dubai Chambers umbrella, has announced its support for the establishment and expansion of 1,690 digital startups in 2025. This represents a remarkable 39.7% year-on-year increase, solidifying the emirate’s standing as a leading global hub for technology and entrepreneurship.
The impressive growth highlights a concentrated effort to foster innovation across high-growth sectors, with 75% of the supported businesses being international companies choosing Dubai as their base for expansion.
A Magnet For Global Tech Talent
The sectoral breakdown of the supported startups reveals a strong focus on future-forward technologies. Artificial intelligence-focused ventures accounted for approximately 15% of the companies, while the burgeoning fintech sector represented 12%. A further 20% was collectively made up of startups in mobility tech, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), and e-commerce.
This strategic focus is aligned with the vision of Dubai’s leadership. In October 2025, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, launched Dubai Founders HQ. This joint initiative between the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy serves as an integrated platform to unite and bolster the emirate’s startup and SME ecosystem.
A Vision For A Global Digital Capital
H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, emphasized the commitment to this vision.
“Guided by the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to cement Dubai’s status as a global hub for the digital economy, Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy remains committed to accelerating the shift towards a fully integrated digital economy built on advanced infrastructure, agile legislation, and a pro-innovation business environment.”
Driving Growth Through Strategic Initiatives
The Chamber has deployed several targeted initiatives to provide tangible support. Through its ‘Business in Dubai’ platform, it offers corporate services and crucial business matchmaking support. In 2025, 48% of supported companies utilized these services for business setup and access to accelerators, while 31% benefited from broader business support.
Another flagship program, the ‘Create Apps in Dubai’ challenge, continues to foster local innovation. The competition has attracted over 5,800 registrations in its first two editions, leading to the launch of more than 55 smart applications. The recently launched third edition aims to support an additional 50 applications with funding packages exceeding AED 2.5 million.
Connecting Dubai To The World Stage
Dubai’s role as a global connector for the tech world was showcased during the 10th edition of Expand North Star in October 2025. Hosted by the Chamber, the event attracted over 2,000 startups and 1,200 investors managing assets worth more than $1.1 trillion.
To further amplify its global reach, the Chamber conducted 17 international roadshows across key markets including the US, UK, Germany, and South Korea, engaging with over 2,500 digital startups and ecosystem partners. The Chamber also published eight insightful reports during the year, including ‘The Entrepreneur’s AI Playbook’, to equip founders with essential knowledge for growth.
About Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy
The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy is one of three chambers operating under Dubai Chambers. It is dedicated to transforming Dubai into a global leader in the digital economy by attracting leading tech companies, supporting digital startups, and building a world-class digital infrastructure. The Chamber actively develops policies, launches strategic initiatives, and fosters a vibrant ecosystem for tech entrepreneurs and investors.
Source: Al Khaleej
