Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, Dubai has launched Dubai Founders HQ, a landmark initiative designed to unify and strengthen the emirate’s ecosystem for startups and SMEs. The new hub is a joint venture between Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, creating an integrated platform to foster innovation and accelerate entrepreneurial growth.
A Strategic Push Under D33
The establishment of Dubai Founders HQ is a core component of the ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda D33. It directly supports several key objectives, including the goal of nurturing 30 Dubai-based startups into global unicorns (companies valued at over $1 billion) and assisting 400 high-potential SMEs in their international expansion by 2033. During the launch, Sheikh Hamdan emphasized Dubai’s belief in entrepreneurship as a primary driver of sustainable development and a cornerstone for building the future, stating, “Our goal is for Dubai to be the platform from which ambitious individuals can transform their big dreams into even bigger successes.”
A Hybrid Hub-and-Spoke Model
Dubai Founders HQ introduces a transformative approach by merging a physical location with a comprehensive digital ecosystem. Located at the 25hours Hotel in One Central, the physical hub acts as a central point of gravity for Dubai’s innovation scene. It operates on a “hub-and-spoke” model, ensuring seamless connectivity with the emirate’s various free zones, incubators, and accelerators. This structure provides a simplified, single point of entry for entrepreneurs to access the full spectrum of resources available across the city.
Comprehensive Support for Entrepreneurs
The initiative is designed to support founders at every stage of their journey. Members gain access to a curated suite of essential services, including sector-specific accelerator programs, expert-led mentorship, and exclusive networking events with investors. The hub also offers dedicated advisory services, co-founder matchmaking opportunities, and assistance with business setup and licensing. This founder-first approach ensures that startups have the necessary tools, guidance, and connections to scale effectively.
Public-Private Collaboration
A key strength of Dubai Founders HQ is its foundation in robust public-private partnerships. More than 25 pioneering partners have already joined the initiative, including venture capital firms, financial service providers, technology companies, and innovation incubators. This collaborative environment enables the sharing of knowledge and resources, accelerating growth and solidifying Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, highlighted this approach, noting that the HQ “embodies Dubai’s collaborative ethos” by bringing together government entities, corporations, and investors to foster sustainable innovation.
About Dubai Founders HQ
Dubai Founders HQ is a joint initiative by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. It serves as an integrated physical and digital platform dedicated to supporting and unifying the emirate’s startup and SME ecosystem. By providing entrepreneurs with access to resources, mentorship, funding opportunities, and a collaborative community, the HQ aims to accelerate the growth of high-impact ventures in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Source: Emarat Al Youm
