Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy Supported 485 Startups in H1 2026, Up 57.5%

The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy supported the establishment and expansion of 485 digital startups during the first half of 2026, a 57.5% increase from the same period last year, according to the chamber.

The figures were shared during a panel at the Dubai Business Forum in Shenzhen, where Saeed Al Gurgawi, vice president of the chamber, outlined efforts to connect startups with funding, talent, customers, strategic partners and new markets.

Artificial intelligence companies accounted for 23% of the startups supported during the period, while international companies represented 51%. The chamber said the figures reflect the diversity of businesses using its services and Dubai’s role as a base for technology companies expanding across regional and global markets.

Through the Dubai Chambers’ Business Enablement Platform, small and medium-sized companies in Dubai can access business services through a unified digital portal. The platform also provides free access to Canva’s advanced design tools and AI-powered solutions.

Al Gurgawi also encouraged Chinese technology companies to use Dubai as a launchpad for new markets, particularly in AI, robotics, smart devices, cloud services, industrial automation, fintech and logistics. He highlighted the chamber’s support in connecting these companies with investors, customers and local and regional partners.

Source: Al Bayan