UAE Launches Partnership to Empower Emirati Startups

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has joined hands with Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), a member of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), to promote innovation and empower Emirati entrepreneurs. This collaboration aims to create a stronger startup ecosystem by exchanging knowledge, sharing data, and launching new programs that will improve the efficiency and global reach of Emirati startups.

The partnership supports the national campaign “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World”, launched under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The campaign reflects the UAE’s vision to become the leading destination for entrepreneurship, innovation, and business success.

The agreement was signed during a visit by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, to the Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus (Dtec) — an initiative of Dubai Silicon Oasis that serves as one of the region’s largest hubs for technology startups.

The signing ceremony brought together key leaders from both institutions. The agreement was signed by Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Commercial Affairs Regulatory Sector at the Ministry of Economy, and Badr Buhannad, Director General of Dubai Silicon Oasis. The event was also attended by Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ).

This strategic partnership represents a major step toward strengthening collaboration between public and private institutions to foster entrepreneurship and technological innovation across the UAE.

During the event, Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri highlighted that this collaboration strengthens the UAE’s ongoing efforts to build a knowledge-driven economy based on creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship. He stated that the country is committed to creating an environment where innovation flourishes and entrepreneurs have access to world-class infrastructure, supportive policies, and financial resources.

The minister emphasized that the national campaign “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World” serves as a unified platform bringing together government entities, private companies, and investors to accelerate the growth of startups. Through flexible regulations, competitive incentives, and cross-sector collaboration, the UAE aims to help its entrepreneurs expand into international markets with confidence.

Under the agreement, the Ministry and DSO will work together to design specialized programs and initiatives that focus on nurturing Emirati talent and enhancing startup competitiveness. These initiatives will include mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and access to modern facilities and funding support.

The collaboration will also promote the exchange of knowledge and data between the two institutions, ensuring that startup founders receive the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy. Emirati entrepreneurs will benefit from Dtec’s supportive ecosystem, which offers shared workspaces, incubators, accelerators, and access to digital solutions.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, praised the agreement, saying it aligns perfectly with DIEZ’s 2026 Strategy, which focuses on supporting the national entrepreneurship ecosystem through practical and sustainable initiatives. He noted that Dubai Silicon Oasis plays a crucial role in transforming ideas into innovative, market-ready projects by offering a flexible business environment and access to advanced technology infrastructure.

He added that the partnership with the Ministry of Economy and Tourism demonstrates DIEZ’s long-term vision to make Dubai and the UAE global leaders in the fields of innovation and business development. Through this collaboration, DIEZ aims to empower youth, encourage startups to embrace emerging technologies, and attract global talent to the UAE.

Badr Buhannad, Director General of Dubai Silicon Oasis, explained that Dtec serves as a key driver of entrepreneurship and innovation in the UAE. The campus supports more than 1,000 startups from over 75 countries, providing them with essential resources, mentorship, and investment opportunities.

Through the new partnership, Dtec will play an expanded role in implementing joint initiatives with the Ministry, helping Emirati startups grow regionally and globally. Its modern digital infrastructure and network of investors and partners make it an ideal platform for startups looking to scale up their operations beyond the UAE.

The partnership between the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Silicon Oasis reflects the UAE’s clear vision for the future — to be a world leader in entrepreneurship and innovation. Both sides expressed confidence that the collaboration will open new opportunities for Emirati startups, inspire creative thinking, and strengthen the country’s position as a top global business hub.

By combining strategic support, technological advancement, and visionary leadership, the UAE continues to create a vibrant environment where entrepreneurs can thrive and contribute to sustainable national growth.