Dubai has launched major expansion projects at Dubai Silicon Oasis, totalling AED12.8 billion ($3.49 billion), reinforcing the zone’s role as a cornerstone of the emirate’s knowledge-based economy and future technology ambitions.
The projects were launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who said the initiative reflects Dubai’s vision to anticipate and shape the future through advanced technologies that serve society and support sustainable economic growth.
The launch ceremony was attended by senior leaders including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ); and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, alongside ministers and senior officials.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed said the expansion marks a pivotal step in strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovation and future industries. He noted that the projects support the growth of advanced technology, artificial intelligence and innovation-driven sectors, while enhancing the contribution of the knowledge economy to inclusive and sustainable development.
The expansion aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, integrating business, technology, housing, education and lifestyle components within a smart and sustainable urban framework.
Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said the projects underline DIEZ’s role in supporting Dubai’s long-term economic objectives by providing integrated residential, commercial and investment environments that encourage private sector participation and job creation in new economic sectors.
District IO and Block 14 projects
The flagship District IO project accounts for AED11 billion ($3 billion) of the total investment and is designed as a hub for future technologies, research and innovation. The development will include 25 LEED-compliant buildings, comprising 18 commercial buildings, four residential buildings and hospitality facilities, including a conference centre and an innovation and experience centre.
Over the next decade, District IO is expected to create more than 70,000 direct and indirect jobs, contribute up to AED103 billion ($28 billion) to Dubai’s GDP by 2036, attract up to AED30 billion ($8.17 billion) in foreign direct investment, and host more than 6,500 global companies, SMEs and startups.
The project will focus on six core sectors: smart mobility, 3D printing, robotics, X-Tech, artificial intelligence and quantum computing, and Web3 technologies. Development will take place in two phases, with construction beginning in 2026 and the second phase launching in 2027.
The Block 14 project will see AED1.8 billion ($490 million) invested in a residential and lifestyle district developed under a transit-oriented model. Located near the Dubai Metro Blue Line station within Dubai Silicon Oasis, the project is scheduled for completion in 2029, in line with the metro line’s launch.
On the sidelines of the event, Sheikh Mohammed toured several key projects within Dubai Silicon Oasis, including Fakeeh University Hospital and the Middle East’s first drone delivery project at the Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai, developed in partnership with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, DIEZ and the Dubai Future Foundation.
