The Dubai Economy and Tourism Department, alongside the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, has announced a partnership with global company Plug and Play to launch a leading accelerator program designed to foster startup growth.
According to a recent press release, the three-month program is now open for applications from ambitious startups that are already generating revenue and seeking to expand. This initiative allows these companies to integrate into Dubai’s innovation ecosystem, providing a platform for them to connect with prominent global institutions and enhance their growth within the region.
Focus for the inaugural batch of the program will be on businesses operating in critical sectors such as trade, logistics, telecommunications, digital solutions, and fintech. These sectors are vital for Dubai’s efforts to diversify its economy and bolster digital transformation, aligning with the ambitious objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033.
The initiative will attract a variety of startups and major corporations, including DHL, Du, and Visa, to facilitate strategic partnerships aimed at promoting innovation and commercial success.
Participating entrepreneurs will enjoy direct networking opportunities with major companies, as well as access to specialized mentorship and training programs, market entry opportunities, and connections to investors.
Selected startups will receive support that ensures they can benefit from Dubai’s innovation ecosystem and expand within it. Meanwhile, large organizations will gain early access to cutting-edge emerging technologies, as well as opportunities for collaboration with promising firms to enhance Dubai’s status as a global hub for future sectors.
Supported by Plug and Play’s innovative approach, the accelerator offers several key advantages, including direct interactions with global innovation leaders at DHL, Du, and Visa. This opens doors for strategic partnerships, solution trials, exploration of expansion opportunities, and valuable insights from local and international specialists in product development, marketing, funding, and sales. Additionally, participants will gain access to investor networks, educational programs, consultancy services, and direct assistance with capital raising and securing necessary funding.
Hadi Badri, the CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Organization, representing the Economic and Tourism Department of Dubai, stated that the launch of this new accelerator in collaboration with Plug and Play reflects the ambitious vision of Dubai’s leadership and marks a significant milestone in the emirate’s innovation journey.
He encouraged aspiring and innovative entrepreneurs to apply and participate in the program, which offers an integrated ecosystem that connects entrepreneurs with major companies, experts, and investors, providing an exceptional opportunity for innovation, growth, and prosperity in Dubai.
Saeed Al-Qurqawee, Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, expressed that this initiative embodies Dubai’s commitment to leading the next phase of economic transformation by linking innovative entrepreneurs with promising business opportunities, aiming to empower ambitious startups to make a long-lasting impact in strategic sectors that support the emirate’s future growth.
He further explained that by connecting global talents with leading institutions, the program enhances Dubai’s role as a bridge between ideas and markets, reinforcing its position as the premier destination for investment in the digital economy.
Saeed Amidi, founder and CEO of Plug and Play, noted that through this partnership, they are developing a world-class program that offers entrepreneurs genuine business opportunities, along with the mentorship and investment support needed for expansion.
This new accelerator plays a crucial role in supporting the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, as it aims to establish 30 unicorn companies and enable 400 small and medium-sized enterprises to expand globally by 2033, thereby bolstering Dubai’s status as a leading global center for business, investment, and talent.
The application window is currently open for ambitious startups from across the United Arab Emirates and around the world to join the program and contribute to Dubai’s innovative ecosystem.