Dubai Founders HQ launches as the region’s first ‘phygital’ platform, aiming to scale 30 unicorns and empower 400 SMEs by 2033.
DUBAI: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has launched Dubai Founders HQ, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming Dubai into a global launchpad for startups and SMEs. The platform combines a state-of-the-art physical campus with a comprehensive digital ecosystem — making it the region’s first “phygital” entrepreneurial hub.
Unveiled at the 25Hours Hotel in One Central, the HQ is a joint effort by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. It is designed to foster collaboration between founders, investors, corporates and enablers, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The initiative targets the creation of 30 unicorns and the scaling of 400 SMEs from Dubai by 2033.
His Highness stressed that entrepreneurship is central to Dubai’s future, calling it “an investment in human potential” and a driver of innovation and sustainable growth. “Our aim is to make Dubai the platform where bold ideas flourish and scale globally,” he said.
Dubai Founders HQ offers tailored support including startup licensing, mentorship, funding access, sector-specific acceleration programmes and corporate innovation partnerships. The campus is supported by more than 25 public and private sector entities, including venture capitalists, tech leaders, government agencies and innovation hubs.
Key features include curated events, advisory services, a founder-first learning portal, and seamless business setup support. The space also celebrates Dubai’s local art and cultural identity, making it a vibrant community for entrepreneurship.
HE Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for AI and Digital Economy, described the launch as a “milestone in positioning Dubai as a global hub for digital entrepreneurship.” Meanwhile, HE Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, noted that Dubai Founders HQ offers a “self-sustaining engine for innovation” where local and international startups can scale efficiently.
The platform’s hub-and-spoke model will connect founders to free zones, accelerators, and incubators across the emirate, ensuring they receive end-to-end support throughout their growth journey.
