Dubai SME, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, has launched Majlis Al Mustaqbal, a new entrepreneurship programme aimed at supporting youth entrepreneurs and accelerating the development of innovative business ideas. Moreover, the initiative offers a structured setting where participants collaborate, access mentorship, and convert concepts into investor-ready pitches.
The first edition will run from 28 to 30 April 2026 at Dubai Founders HQ. Additionally, the three-day programme will bring together participants with industry experts, mentors, and government professionals for ideation, business model development, pitch training, and final presentations.
The programme, which translates as “Gathering of the Future”, combines practical learning with direct access to key ecosystem stakeholders. As a result, it aims to help participants validate ideas, strengthen entrepreneurial thinking, and build confidence to progress beyond the programme.
Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME), said: “Majlis Al Mustaqbal is designed to help young entrepreneurs move beyond inspiration and into action, equipping them with the tools, guidance, and exposure needed to turn ideas into viable ventures. By connecting participants directly with mentors, investors, and ecosystem partners, we are enabling a new generation of founders to actively contribute to Dubai’s future-focused, innovation-driven economy. This is in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to empower local SMEs and also make Dubai a global hub for innovation.”
Over the three-day event, participants will follow a structured process including idea generation, team formation, and business model development. Additionally, the programme includes investor pitch preparation, public speaking support, and dry-run sessions.
Participants will present their final concepts to a jury panel that includes representatives from Dubai Municipality, du, WIO Bank, Aramex, Digital Dubai, Dubai Sports Council, Intelak Hub, and Dubai SME. Moreover, the programme will conclude with recognition of the top three winning teams.
Strengthening Dubai’s innovation pipeline
The launch supports Dubai SME’s wider mandate to expand entrepreneurship pathways and strengthen innovation culture among emerging founders. Furthermore, the programme is hosted at Dubai Founders HQ and delivered in partnership with ecosystem stakeholders.
Majlis Al Mustaqbal is planned as a recurring initiative. As a result, future editions aim to create a consistent pipeline of early-stage ventures and entrepreneurial talent.
Additionally, the programme supports the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033 by strengthening innovation capacity and supporting high-growth enterprises.
