Hatta Festival Encourages Young Entrepreneurs through Trader Initiative

In a bid to shape a generation ready for future challenges, Dubai has launched the Young Trader initiative at the Hatta Festival. This program, organized by Brand Dubai in partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, is part of the broader #HattaWinter campaign.

The primary goal of this initiative is to foster entrepreneurial skills among children, providing them with practical insights into the business world through engaging activities designed for younger audiences. The Young Trader experience emphasizes creativity, builds self-assurance, and introduces the concept of commercial interaction from an early age.

During the festival, four child-led business projects, featuring participants aged 8 to 13, were presented to the public. These entrepreneurial ventures displayed a variety of concepts, showcasing the creativity and innovative spirit of the young traders, while allowing them to engage directly with market dynamics.

Amina Taher, a representative from the #HattaWinter Initiative Organising Committee, mentioned that the program is designed to empower kids to explore their potential early on. She emphasized that the Young Trader initiative seamlessly combines fun and learning, giving children hands-on experience in entrepreneurship and fostering self-sufficiency in a nurturing community.

By pitching their ideas to festival-goers, participants enhance their communication abilities and self-esteem, while acquiring a deeper appreciation of business operations beyond the classroom environment.

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, stated that this initiative aligns perfectly with Dubai SME’s mission to promote entrepreneurship and support the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

He noted that Young Trader offers vital early exposure to aspects of entrepreneurship, project management, and public engagement, equipping young participants with skills crucial for transforming ideas into viable ventures in the future. This program evidences Dubai’s commitment to cultivating innovation, self-confidence, and practical skills among the youth.

The #HattaWinter initiative is overseen by Brand Dubai and supported by the Supreme Committee for the Development of Hatta, collaborating with various governmental organizations including the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Community Development Authority, Dubai Sports Council, and Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

These collective efforts reaffirm Dubai’s dedication to building a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that begins with youth and advances alongside the emirate's economic aspirations.