In the first half of 2025, startups in the UAE continued to attract significant investor interest. The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy reported that it facilitated the establishment and growth of 127 digital startups within the emirate during the first quarter of 2025. This represents a remarkable 135 percent increase compared to the same period the previous year. The Chamber emphasized that this growth highlights its ongoing efforts to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global hub for technology startups.
Throughout Q1 2025, the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy organized four major events. These events were strategically designed to support the broader business community, empower emerging startups, foster talent, cultivate strategic partnerships, and simplify the process of conducting business in Dubai.
Additionally, the Chamber’s digital upskilling programs trained 729 participants. These programs are tailored to enhance the skills of specialized professionals in cutting-edge technology sectors, ultimately preparing a workforce that is ready for the future.
The Chamber also continued to support businesses seeking to establish or expand their operations in Dubai through its “Business in Dubai” platform. This platform provides seamless access to a variety of institutional services, enabling companies to establish themselves more easily. Moreover, the “Business in Dubai” platform offers valuable business matchmaking services, connecting companies with potential partners, investors, and clients.
Attracting Technology Investment
Commenting on these efforts, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, as well as Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, stated: “The Chamber is committed to playing a key role in positioning Dubai as a global leader in the digital economy, in alignment with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. We are focused on developing a fully integrated digital ecosystem, built upon world-class infrastructure and forward-thinking legislation. Our goal is to support the growth of both emerging and established digital companies, enable their global expansion from Dubai, and drive innovation and digital entrepreneurship across the economy.”
His Excellency further added: “The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy is dedicated to accelerating digital transformation and reinforcing the city’s appeal as a prime destination for technology investment, innovation, and digital talent. We aim to create impactful solutions that contribute to both economic and social development.”
UAE’s Entrepreneurial Success Continues
The UAE has once again secured the top position in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report, marking its fourth consecutive year as the world’s leading environment for entrepreneurship and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Outperforming 55 other economies, the UAE showed exceptional performance, excelling in 11 out of 13 key indicators among high-income nations. This achievement is based on expert assessments of the nation’s strong institutional frameworks that actively support entrepreneurship.
The UAE particularly stood out in areas such as entrepreneurial financing and the ease of access to capital, reflecting the effectiveness of government policies designed to promote startups. The country also led in favorable tax regulations, impactful government-backed programs, and the successful integration of entrepreneurship into the education system. Additionally, the UAE secured the top rank in business and professional infrastructure, ease of market entry, and the efficient transfer of research and development outcomes into practical applications.
