The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, part of the Dubai Chambers, highlighted the competitive advantages of Dubai’s business environment at the Expand North Star 2024 event. Held at Dubai Harbour from October 13 to 16, the event, hosted by the Dubai Chamber, underscores Dubai’s pivotal role in supporting digital startups.
During a panel discussion, Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, presented the emirate’s unique strengths in fostering digital entrepreneurship. Al Gergawi emphasized that Dubai’s proactive approach towards growing digital companies has reinforced its reputation as a global capital for the digital economy. This aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which targets generating AED100 billion annually through digital transformation initiatives.
“Continues to establish itself as a preferred destination for entrepreneurs worldwide,” said Al Gergawi. “With its extensive logistical connectivity and diverse, modern environment, the city offers unmatched opportunities for expansion into international markets.” He added that Dubai’s advanced infrastructure and its appeal to over 200 nationalities further enhance its position as a magnet for talent in cutting-edge technology fields.
Al Gergawi highlighted Dubai’s unique business ecosystem, which promotes entrepreneurial success through a supportive legislative framework and a culture of innovation.
“Dubai’s infrastructure, combined with its pro-business policies, makes it a top destination for digital startups looking to establish, grow, and expand.”
He also discussed the “App Olympics,” a key initiative overseen by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. Designed to encourage global innovators, the competition offers winners a package worth $150,000 in services and six months of mentorship. It forms part of the “Create Apps in Dubai” initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, in March 2023.
The initiative, under the chamber’s supervision, aims to train over 1,000 Emiratis in coding and app development through the Emirati Training Academy. It seeks to triple the number of app developers in Dubai by 2025 and support the creation of 100 new national app projects.
By focusing on these initiatives, the Chamber of Digital Economy is driving innovation and fostering an ecosystem that allows entrepreneurs and startups to thrive in Dubai’s competitive business landscape.