Sheikh Hamdan Launches Dubai Founders HQ to Boost Startup Growth
Dubai has taken another big step toward becoming the world’s best city for innovation and entrepreneurship. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has launched Dubai Founders HQ — a major project that focuses on helping startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grow faster.
The goal of this initiative is to make Dubai one of the top global cities for business and technology. It supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the city’s economy and make it one of the top three global cities by 2033.
Dubai Founders HQ is not just another business center — it’s a powerful platform that brings together startups, investors, and experts to help founders turn ideas into successful global companies.
A New Chapter for Dubai’s Startup Scene
With the launch of Dubai Founders HQ, Sheikh Hamdan is setting a new direction for the city’s future. The project is a partnership between the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, and its main goal is to give entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed.
According to Sheikh Hamdan, the initiative will help 30 startups become billion-dollar companies (unicorns) and support 400 SMEs in growing across regional and international markets.
Sheikh Hamdan shared on social media, “In line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, we seek to create the world’s best business environment and reinforce the city’s position as a global destination for innovation and enterprise.”
This statement highlights Dubai’s commitment to building a sustainable, innovative economy driven by technology and creativity.
Building a Strong Base for Entrepreneurs
Dubai Founders HQ will become the main hub for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Dubai. It will offer a range of services such as training, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities. These will help founders develop their skills, attract investors, and scale their businesses.
The platform will connect startups with potential investors, advisors, and corporate partners. It will also serve as a meeting point for creative minds to collaborate on new ideas and business ventures.
This initiative shows how Dubai is focusing on empowering entrepreneurs — not just by offering funding or office space, but by building an ecosystem where businesses can grow naturally and sustainably.
Supporting the Goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33
The Dubai Economic Agenda D33, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to create a strong, diversified economy that supports long-term growth and innovation.
The launch of Dubai Founders HQ perfectly aligns with this goal. It focuses on nurturing startups, encouraging digital transformation, and attracting more global investment into Dubai. By supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses, the initiative helps create new jobs, develop new technologies, and strengthen the city’s economy.
The D33 Agenda aims to make Dubai one of the world’s top three economic cities by 2033. The Founders HQ is a major part of that plan — ensuring that startups and SMEs become a powerful force driving Dubai’s economic success.
Why Dubai Is the Ideal Place for Startups
Dubai has quickly become one of the world’s best places to start and grow a business. Entrepreneurs from all over the world are choosing Dubai because of its easy business setup process, strong infrastructure, advanced technology, and global connectivity.
The city is already home to some of the most successful startups in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Studies show that about 90% of all UAE startups are based in Dubai, making it the country’s main center for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Dubai Founders HQ will add even more value to this ecosystem by providing the right environment for startups to thrive. It will bring together investors, industry leaders, and government partners to create opportunities for funding, partnerships, and mentorship.
This will allow startups to grow quickly and compete on a global scale, further cementing Dubai’s reputation as a leader in business innovation.
Empowering Founders Through Collaboration
The idea behind Dubai Founders HQ is simple — to help founders succeed through collaboration and support. The initiative will bring together entrepreneurs from different industries and backgrounds to share ideas, learn from each other, and work together on solving real-world problems.
The HQ will also provide access to business experts and mentors who can guide entrepreneurs on how to scale their businesses effectively. Whether it’s improving marketing, finding investors, or entering new markets, founders will have access to the best resources available.
Sheikh Hamdan believes that empowering founders is one of the most important steps toward building a strong and sustainable economy. By giving entrepreneurs the right tools and knowledge, Dubai is helping create the next generation of business leaders and innovators.
Strengthening Dubai’s Digital Future
Dubai is already known for its forward-thinking vision when it comes to technology and innovation. The launch of Dubai Founders HQ adds another milestone in this journey.
With digital transformation at the heart of Dubai’s economy, this initiative will help startups that focus on technology-driven solutions — such as artificial intelligence, fintech, and digital commerce — to scale faster and make a global impact.
Dubai’s government has always believed in the power of technology to improve lives and drive growth. Through initiatives like Dubai Future Foundation, Dubai Startup Hub, and now Dubai Founders HQ, the city is ensuring that entrepreneurs have every opportunity to turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions.
The Role of DET and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy are working hand in hand to make Dubai Founders HQ a success.
The DET is responsible for promoting Dubai as one of the best cities to live, work, and invest in. It plays a crucial role in attracting investors and supporting new business ventures.
The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy focuses on driving digital transformation across all sectors. Its mission is to make Dubai a leader in the global digital economy by helping startups and tech companies grow.
Together, these two organizations are creating an environment where digital businesses can thrive — offering founders the perfect mix of government support, innovation programs, and access to funding.
Helping Startups Expand Globally
One of the most ambitious goals of Dubai Founders HQ is to help 30 startups become global unicorns — companies valued at more than $1 billion — and to support 400 SMEs in expanding internationally.
To achieve this, the HQ will provide access to global networks, international investors, and trade opportunities. This will allow startups to connect with potential partners around the world and build strong international relationships.
Dubai’s strategic location between East and West makes it an ideal base for global business expansion. The city serves as a gateway to international markets across Asia, Europe, and Africa, giving entrepreneurs access to billions of consumers.
This global outlook aligns with the UAE’s National Innovation Strategy, which focuses on building an economy powered by innovation, creativity, and technology.
A Future of Growth and Opportunity
The launch of Dubai Founders HQ marks the beginning of a new era for Dubai’s business community. It represents a clear message from Sheikh Hamdan and the Dubai government — that innovation and entrepreneurship are the driving forces of the city’s future.
Through this initiative, Dubai is not only supporting local startups but also attracting global entrepreneurs who see the city as a place of opportunity and growth.
By empowering founders, creating new opportunities for SMEs, and promoting a digital-first economy, Dubai is building a future that is open, inclusive, and full of potential.
The Dubai Founders HQ will play a key role in achieving that vision — helping transform Dubai into the world’s most dynamic city for startups and innovation.
