Under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of both the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Racing and the UAE Falcons Federation, the Etihad Cup for Falc...
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met on Monday with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to discuss national priorities, including education, healthcare, family wellbeing, and national identity.
The meeting took place at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
The discussions centered on initiatives central to the country’s long-term development strategy. The leaders also received guests at the majlis, where they exchanged greetings and views.
The gathering was attended by senior members of the ruling family and government, including Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra; and several other federal and local officials.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai commemorated Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day on September 23 with a series of coordinated activities at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1.
Arriving Saudi travelers were greeted with Emirati and Saudi flags, commemorative gifts, and a visible display of hospitality reflecting the close historical and diplomatic ties between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Smart gates at the terminal were lit in green, and children received themed gifts from official mascots, Salem and Salama.
In a gesture of symbolic diplomacy, passports of Saudi visitors were stamped with a custom design bearing the official 95th National Day emblem and the phrase “UAE_Saudi, Together-Forever.”
The initiative forms part of GDRFA Dubai’s broader effort to foster cross-cultural ties and promote people-centered services, aligning with the Emirate’s strategic positioning as a hub of international cooperation and quality of life.
Dubai has once again secured its position as the top global destination for Greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI), attracting 643 projects in the first half of 2025. This marks the eighth consecutive half-year period in which the city has ranked No.1 globally, maintaining a lead of 478 projects over its closest competitor. The number of Greenfield projects represents the highest-ever recorded for any city globally in a six-month period since data tracking began in 2003, according to Financial Times Ltd's ‘fDi Markets’ database.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, underscored the significance of this achievement as a reflection of Dubai's robust development vision. “The strength and resilience of Dubai’s economy continues to inspire confidence among global investors in its ability to reimagine the future,” Sheikh Hamdan remarked. He also emphasized Dubai’s role in unlocking emerging sectors such as technology and sustainability, in line with the city’s long-term development agenda.
Dubai’s continued success in attracting FDI aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai's economy by 2033. The emirate’s comprehensive infrastructure, progressive regulations, and digital-first services make it an attractive destination for investors, further cementing its position as a global economic hub.
Notably, Dubai has also improved its global ranking in other key FDI metrics. The city moved to second place globally for total FDI capital in H1 2025, up from fourth place the previous year. It also rose to third place for the number of jobs created through inward FDI, up from fourth in 2024. Across these metrics, Dubai retained its top position in the Middle East.
In addition to its overall FDI performance, Dubai has strengthened its status as a preferred base for multinational corporations. The city ranked first globally for headquarters FDI projects, which saw a 60% increase from 20 projects in H1 2024 to 32 in H1 2025. Dubai’s leading position was also reinforced by its dominance in sectors such as information and communication technology (ICT), life sciences, financial services, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Dubai’s market share for Greenfield FDI stands at 8%, with the city accounting for 56% of all Greenfield FDI projects in the Middle East. The strategic geographic location, coupled with Dubai’s diverse business ecosystem, makes it a key player in global investment flows.
The first half of 2025 also saw a notable 62% increase in FDI capital, reaching AED 40.4 billion (USD 11 billion), compared to AED 24.7 billion (USD 6.8 billion) in the same period in 2024. Job creation from these investments surged by 46.7%, rising from 26,202 jobs in H1 2024 to 38,433 in H1 2025.
The diversity of FDI projects is further proof of Dubai’s appeal to a wide range of industries. The city saw strong performance in sectors such as business services, construction, retail, logistics, and manufacturing. Moreover, emerging industries such as FinTech and AI are drawing significant interest, reflecting Dubai's adaptability to global economic shifts.
Source markets for FDI into Dubai are diverse, with the United States leading, contributing 35% of total FDI capital. Other key investors include the United Kingdom, France, India, and Saudi Arabia. These regions continue to view Dubai as a stable and promising investment destination with strategic access to global markets.
Dubai’s sustained leadership in FDI underscores its dynamic business environment, and its future-focused economic strategy continues to attract global investors seeking growth and stability in a rapidly changing world.
Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office
Alexander Agafiev
Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.
Dubai Chambers has explored expanding trade and investment relations with the Republic of North Macedonia in a recent high-level meeting held during an official visit to Skopje. The delegation, led by H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, met with H.E. Professor Dr. Hristijan Mickoski, Prime Minister of North Macedonia, to discuss deepening bilateral economic ties and advancing joint projects and investments.
The discussions focused on fostering stronger partnerships in key sectors such as trade, energy, tourism, agriculture, and technology. The meeting underscored Dubai's strategic role as a global business hub and highlighted new opportunities for North Macedonian businesses to expand into Dubai’s market, and vice versa. H.E. Lootah reaffirmed Dubai’s commitment to advancing international trade cooperation and building bridges for economic activity worldwide, adding that this visit was part of broader efforts to unlock new growth avenues.
This diplomatic engagement follows an earlier delegation from North Macedonia to Dubai in April 2025. The exchange marks a continued push to accelerate economic partnerships and stimulate investment in both directions. According to H.E. Mickoski, the visit opens up new pathways for cooperation and helps create stronger, mutually beneficial trade relations.
The value of non-oil trade between Dubai and North Macedonia reached AED 1.8 billion during the five years from 2020 to 2024, reflecting a solid foundation for future collaboration. The number of Macedonian companies registered as members of Dubai Chamber of Commerce has surged by 522%, from just nine in 2020 to 56 by mid-2025, illustrating significant growth in business engagement between the two regions.
Dubai’s strategic advantages as a business hub for North Macedonian companies were also highlighted during the discussions. Key sectors identified for potential Macedonian exports to Dubai include pharmaceuticals, apparel, bakery products, preserved vegetables, marble and stone, mineral waters, and copper wire. The sectors where Macedonian companies have found success in Dubai include Real Estate, Construction, Education, and Trading & Services.
This mission forms part of the ‘Growth Corridors’ initiative by Dubai Chambers, designed to bolster trade and investment flows between Dubai and high-potential international markets. Through these missions, Dubai seeks to strengthen its role as a gateway for global business expansion, fostering sectoral integration and encouraging joint ventures.
The initiative underscores Dubai’s adaptability in the face of changing global economic conditions and legislative environments. By offering investment incentives and cultivating strong business networks, Dubai Chambers aims to help local companies tap into new, promising markets with greater efficiency and confidence.
ALEC Holdings, a leading diversified engineering and construction group based in Dubai, has officially launched its initial public offering (IPO) on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM). The company has set the offer price range for its shares between AED 1.35 and AED 1.40, with the market capitalisation at listing expected to range from AED 6.75 billion (US$ 1.84 billion) to AED 7 billion (US$ 1.91 billion).
ALEC is offering a total of one billion shares, equivalent to 20% of its share capital, in this public offering. The total size of the IPO is estimated between AED 1.35 billion (US$ 368 million) and AED 1.40 billion (US$ 381 million). The shares being offered are existing shares held by the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), the principal investment arm of the Government of Dubai. ICD will retain an 80% stake in ALEC after the offering.
The subscription period for the IPO opens today and runs until 30 September 2025. The final offer price will be determined through a book-building process, with the results expected to be announced by 1 October 2025. The IPO’s completion and the admission of shares to the DFM are currently slated for 15 October 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
The offering includes a portion reserved for retail investors, another for institutional investors, and a third for eligible employees of ALEC and ICD. Additionally, 10% of the shares in the institutional tranche are reserved for the Emirates Investment Authority (EIA) and the Pensions Social Security Fund of Local Military Personnel, with each fund allocated 5%. If they do not exercise their preferential rights, these shares will be available to other institutional investors.
The IPO also includes a lock-up period for both ALEC and ICD, lasting 180 days following the shares' admission to the market. The company has appointed xCube LLC to potentially stabilise the market price of the shares.
Shariah compliance for the offering has been confirmed by Emirates NBD’s internal Shariah Supervision Committee.
The IPO is being managed by a consortium of financial institutions, with Emirates NBD Capital and J.P. Morgan Securities serving as joint global coordinators and bookrunners. Other key participants include Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, EFG-Hermes, and Moelis & Company.
Under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Women Establishment (DWE), a protocol training program was held for 20 female leaders from government and semi-government entities in Dubai. The initiative is part of DWE’s broader mandate to enhance the leadership and professional capacities of Emirati women across sectors.
Conducted in partnership with The Protocol School of Washington, the three-day program took place from September 22 to 24. It aimed to strengthen participants’ executive presence and professional conduct, preparing them to represent their organisations in both domestic and international contexts.
The training addressed key areas such as official correspondence, diplomatic etiquette, personal diplomacy, and leadership through protocol. Participants were introduced to standards rooted in the UAE’s traditions, while also gaining practical tools for managing formal interactions and navigating complex professional environments.
Her Excellency Naeema Ahli, CEO of Dubai Women Establishment, said the program reflects DWE’s continued efforts to develop female talent and foster leadership that aligns with the nation’s strategic goals. She underscored the importance of protocol training in enhancing communication, building confidence, and enabling women to represent the UAE with competence and distinction.
The course was delivered by Mrs. Pamela Eyring, President of The Protocol School of Washington, and Mr. Saeed Al-Salkhadi, the school’s Vice President. It is one of several programs launched by DWE to equip Emirati women with the skills necessary to advance in high-level roles across industries.
Dubai Chambers has introduced representatives from 25 South Korean companies to the emirate’s business environment during a recent roundtable aimed at fostering bilateral trade and investment ties. The ‘Dubai-Korea Roundtable Discussion’ was held in partnership with the Korea International Trade Association (KITA) and the UAE Embassy in Seoul.
The event drew approximately 60 participants, including representatives from 14 Dubai-based companies, and highlighted commercial opportunities in sectors such as agritech, artificial intelligence, fintech, mobility, energy, construction, and infrastructure. Organizers emphasized Dubai’s appeal as a platform for international expansion, particularly for technology-driven enterprises.
As part of the visit, Dubai Chambers and KITA signed a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen cooperation between the two private sectors. The agreement outlines plans for information sharing, delegation exchanges, and joint participation in business forums and exhibitions. The MoU was signed by Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, and Gi-Hyun Kim, Vice President of KITA, in the presence of KITA Chairman Jin-Sik Yoon.
Al Gergawi noted that Dubai presents significant growth potential for Korean companies, including startups, especially in advanced technology sectors. He also highlighted the upcoming Expand North Star 2025 conference, billed as the world’s largest startup and investor event. Scheduled for October 12–15 at Dubai Harbour, the event is expected to draw a growing Korean presence. Last year, 152 South Korean companies participated - more than double the 72 that attended in 2023.
The roundtable reflects Dubai’s ongoing efforts to strengthen economic ties with key Asian markets while positioning itself as a global hub for innovation and investment.
In October 2025, Expand North Star - billed as the world’s largest event for startups and investors - will mark its 10th anniversary with a significant expansion in scope and programming. Organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the event will take place from October 12 to 15 at Dubai Harbour.
The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of three chambers under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced five new features for the upcoming edition: ScaleX, the Consumer Tech Zone, North Star Green Impact, the Deeptech MEA Summit, and the Digital Assets Forum. These initiatives are aimed at broadening the platform’s reach and enhancing its role as a regional and international catalyst for digital innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship.
A Broader Ecosystem
Launched in 2015, Expand North Star has evolved into a global convergence point for founders, venture capital firms, technology leaders, and policymakers. The 2025 edition introduces targeted content zones and thematic summits, reflecting both the diversification of the tech sector and Dubai’s ambitions to accelerate its transition into a digital economy.
Among the key additions is ScaleX, a market access program curated for 100 of the world’s fastest-growing technology scaleups. The initiative combines remote preparation with in-person engagements at the event, aimed at facilitating expansion into the Middle East and other emerging markets.
The Consumer Tech Zone will provide a dedicated showcase for startups developing hardware and consumer-facing innovations in areas such as augmented and virtual reality, digital health devices, and connected lifestyle technologies. These early-stage companies are backed by accelerators, government innovation programs, and research hubs.
Emphasis on Sustainability and Deep Technology
The launch of North Star Green Impact introduces a new sustainability-focused platform spotlighting climate-tech startups. Areas of focus include clean energy, circular economy solutions, water conservation, and sustainable transportation. The initiative comes as climate-related ventures in the Middle East and North Africa region have seen increased investor interest, including a reported 40 percent annual rise in venture capital funding in 2023.
Another new addition, the Deeptech MEA Summit, will convene stakeholders from across the Middle East and Africa working in advanced technologies such as quantum computing, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The summit aims to foster collaboration between researchers, startups, and government bodies focused on commercializing deep technology innovation.
Meanwhile, the Digital Assets Forum will address emerging trends and regulatory developments in digital finance. Topics include central bank digital currencies, tokenization of assets, and the application of AI in financial infrastructure and risk management.
Signature Events Return
Several of Expand North Star’s flagship initiatives will return for the 2025 edition. The Supernova Challenge 2.0, a global startup pitch competition, will once again offer a prize pool of $200,000. The Corporate Arena, launched in 2024, will also return, providing a venue for enterprise leaders to engage with founders and explore investment or partnership opportunities.
The Tech Transfer Innovation Forum will continue its role in bridging the gap between academia and industry by connecting researchers, universities, and deep-tech entrepreneurs. Additionally, the event will host Marketing Mania, a conference focused on MarTech and brand storytelling in the age of AI.
Youth-oriented programs will also feature prominently. YouthX Unipreneur and Emaratipreneur will support student founders and emerging Emirati entrepreneurs, respectively. Networking activities are scheduled to continue into the evening hours under the North Star by Night banner, designed to foster informal dialogue and connections among attendees.
Economic Strategy
The expansion of the event aligns with broader policy goals under Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33), which targets the city’s transformation into one of the top global digital economies. The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy considers Expand North Star a central component of its strategy to position the emirate as a hub for innovation-led growth.
As the event enters its second decade, its organizers aim to leverage Dubai’s strategic location, business environment, and policy direction to attract and support the next generation of global technology leaders.
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has been honored with the ‘Inspirational Brand’ award at the Asia-Pacific Property Awards 2025, a recognition that underscores the agency’s role as a leading government entity in real estate administration. The accolade highlights DLD’s influence both regionally and internationally in shaping Dubai’s real estate market.
The award acknowledges the department’s contribution to establishing Dubai as a global hub for real estate investment. DLD has advanced this position through the implementation of international best practices, an integrated digital services platform, and adaptable regulatory frameworks. These efforts have solidified real estate as a foundational sector within Dubai’s national economy and a major attractor of foreign direct investment.
Central to the department’s success has been the deployment of advanced digital tools, including artificial intelligence, to enhance service delivery. Key innovations include real estate advertising governance, the Smart Rental Index, and Smart Valuation services, all accessible via the Dubai REST application. Additionally, DLD has initiated multiple projects in collaboration with public and private sector partners to streamline transactions, increase transparency, and improve operational efficiency for investors and developers.
The department’s progress aligns with strategic directives from Dubai’s leadership aimed at positioning the real estate sector as a driver of economic growth and a critical component of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033.
In the first half of 2025, DLD processed more than 1.3 million real estate procedures, including upwards of 125,000 transactions valued at over AED 431 billion. The same period saw the addition of approximately 59,000 new investors, while the total number of real estate investments exceeded 118,000, with a combined value surpassing AED 326 billion. These figures reflect the sustained strength and international appeal of Dubai’s property market.
The award also recognizes DLD’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Between 2021 and 2023, community satisfaction with the department’s social initiatives exceeded 95 percent, while its environmental and health programs achieved success rates above 93 percent. The agency has emphasized employee well-being alongside broader economic and environmental goals.
Dubai has been recognized as one of the world’s foremost maritime hubs, ranking fifth globally and first among Arab nations in the 2025 International Shipping Centre Development Index. The annual report, issued by Xinhua News Agency in collaboration with the Baltic Exchange, describes Dubai as “the crown jewel of the Middle East’s maritime sector,” underscoring the emirate’s expanding influence in global shipping and logistics.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Maritime Authority, a division of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, attributed the ranking to a coordinated effort between government leadership and maritime industry stakeholders. “Dubai’s position reflects the vision of our leadership, as well as the effective coordination between strategic partners and maritime sector companies in the emirate,” Sheikh Saeed said. He emphasized continued commitments to service development, regulatory updates, and innovation aimed at sustaining Dubai’s growth as a global centre for shipping and logistics.
The report highlights Dubai’s comprehensive maritime infrastructure and services, which include navigation assistance, shipbuilding and repair capabilities, and expanding port capacity. It also cited the Dubai Maritime Transport Plan 2030, aligned with the broader Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to increase maritime transport utilization and develop Dubai Maritime City as part of the emirate’s economic diversification efforts.
Particular attention was given to Jebel Ali Port, described as a strategic regional hub benefiting from ongoing investments in infrastructure and operational capacity. According to the report, the port handled 15.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2024 - the highest annual volume since 2015 - and accounted for 18 percent of the 88.3 million TEUs managed by DP World, the port’s operator.
Sustainability initiatives at Jebel Ali Port were also noted, including the introduction of biofuel supplies for ships, installation of 50,000 square meters of solar panels to generate renewable energy, and deployment of electric vehicles for container handling. These measures contribute to an annual reduction of approximately 2,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
Captain Ibrahim Al Blooshi, Executive Director of Dubai Ports Authority, expressed pride in the ranking. “This achievement underscores Dubai’s strong position as a global maritime hub,” he said. Captain Al Blooshi noted that Jebel Ali Port, along with Port Rashid and Hamriyah Port - also operated by DP World under the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation - continue to support the emirate’s economic goals despite global market uncertainties. He reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational safety within the maritime sector.
The recognition in the 2025 Shipping Centre Development Index positions Dubai alongside established maritime centres worldwide, reinforcing its role as a critical node in international trade and shipping.
Rory McIlroy, fresh off a milestone season that saw him complete the career Grand Slam with a victory at Augusta National, has confirmed his participation in the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic. The tournament, part of the DP World Tour’s Rolex Series, will take place from January 22 to 25 at Emirates Golf Club.
The appearance will mark a personal milestone for McIlroy: 20 years since his first participation in the tournament as an amateur in 2006. Now a five-time major champion and currently ranked second in the world, McIlroy leads the Race to Dubai Rankings and is expected to represent Team Europe at the Ryder Cup next week.
McIlroy’s relationship with the Hero Dubai Desert Classic is among the most storied in modern golf. His first professional win came at the event in 2009 at the age of 19. He went on to secure further victories in 2015, 2023, and 2024, making him the tournament’s only four-time champion. A fifth win in 2026 would set a new record.
“It’s been a very special year for me, and I’m excited about what’s still to come,” McIlroy said in a statement. “The Hero Dubai Desert Classic has always been one of my favourite tournaments, and I’m really looking forward to returning to Emirates Golf Club in January. I consider Dubai a second home – the support there is always incredible, and it’s the perfect place to start the year.”
Organizers of the event have confirmed that the 2026 edition will include several expanded offerings for spectators. Alongside the competition itself, the event will again host its “Tournament Town,” a fan zone featuring live entertainment, food and beverage options, family activities, and interactive experiences. Wellness programming and children’s events are also scheduled.
Ticketing for the event has opened with early bird pricing. General admission remains free on Thursday and Friday, with weekend entry starting at AED 75 during the promotional period. Children under 17 will be granted free access throughout the tournament. Premium hospitality packages, including access to the Dallah Lounge and The Social on Sixteen, are also available.
The Dallah Lounge offers proximity to the 9th and 18th greens and includes all-day dining and views of the Dubai skyline. The Social on Sixteen, located at the 16th hole, returns in 2026 with expanded capacity and offers a package of casual dining and four hours of complimentary beverages.
The tournament, now in its 37th year, is the oldest professional golf event in the Middle East. It has held Rolex Series status since 2017 and is recognized by the Golf Environment Organization (GEO) for its sustainability efforts. The 2026 edition will continue the event’s focus on environmental responsibility and wellness, including a dedicated Mental Fitness Zone for players and support staff. The zone, which debuted in a previous edition, is intended to offer participants a quiet space during the high-pressure tournament week.
Organizers also plan to prioritize public transportation options for spectators, with the Emirates Golf Club’s proximity to Dubai Metro stations and taxi access intended to reduce the event’s environmental footprint.
“Rory’s return is the perfect way to launch our 2026 event,” said Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director. “To welcome him back as the Masters champion after perhaps the finest season of his career only reinforces the prestige of this tournament. With affordable ticketing, sustainability initiatives, and a renewed focus on wellness and family engagement, we are continuing to build the Hero Dubai Desert Classic as both a leading golf tournament and a major event on Dubai’s sporting calendar.”
Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office
Alexander Agafiev
Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), in collaboration with the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, has announced the launch of a new startup accelerator program in partnership with Plug and Play, a Silicon Valley-based innovation platform known for its work with technology startups and Fortune 500 corporations.
The three-month accelerator, now open for applications, is designed to support post-revenue startups positioned for regional expansion. It is part of a broader effort to align with Dubai’s long-term economic strategy, known as the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the size of the city’s economy over the next decade.
The inaugural edition of the program will focus on three sectors: Trade and Logistics, Connectivity and Digital Solutions, and Financial Technology. These industries have been identified as critical pillars in Dubai’s efforts to diversify its economy and accelerate digital transformation.
Participating startups will engage directly with major corporate partners including DHL, du, and Visa. The program offers access to senior innovation executives, mentorship, investor networks, and tailored support for market entry and expansion within Dubai’s corporate ecosystem.
For corporate participants, the accelerator offers early exposure to emerging technologies and opportunities to co-develop solutions with high-growth startups. The initiative is designed to foster commercial partnerships and stimulate cross-sector innovation.
“This initiative marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s innovation journey,” said Hadi Badri, Chief Executive of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), a division of DET. “We are inviting bold and ambitious founders to leverage this platform to scale their impact. This accelerator is an integrated model that brings together entrepreneurs, corporates, investors, and mentors under one collaborative framework.”
Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, underscored the strategic intent behind the initiative. “This program demonstrates our commitment to connecting global entrepreneurial talent with real economic opportunities in Dubai. We are creating an ecosystem where innovative solutions are matched with market needs, particularly in sectors critical to the emirate’s long-term development.”
The program is modeled on Plug and Play’s established accelerator methodology, which emphasizes rapid pilot testing, structured mentorship, and commercial scalability. Founded in 2006, Plug and Play has built a reputation for linking startups with multinational corporations across industries.
“We are honored to join forces with Dubai’s leading economic institutions,” said Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO of Plug and Play. “Through this partnership, we aim to build a best-in-class accelerator that delivers both startup growth and corporate innovation outcomes.”
The initiative is a key component of Dubai’s D33 agenda, which includes specific goals to establish 30 new unicorns and scale 400 small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into large businesses by 2033. Officials have positioned the accelerator as a tool to help realize these targets, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global hub for innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship.
Applications for the first cohort are currently open. Selected startups will begin the program later this year.
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), one of the United Arab Emirates’ most prominent business districts, has reported a near 10 percent year-on-year increase in the number of Italian companies operating within its free zone, bringing the total to more than 530.
The announcement follows the completion of DMCC’s latest “Made For Trade Live” (MFTL) roadshow in Southern Italy, where events were held in Naples and Palermo to promote trade and investment opportunities between Dubai and the region. According to DMCC, more than 260 Italian business leaders attended the sessions, which focused on Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for commerce and innovation.
The growth in Italian companies comes amid a broader uptick in UAE–Italy economic relations. Non-oil trade between the two countries surpassed $14 billion in 2024, reflecting an increase of more than 20 percent compared to the previous year.
“The synergies between the UAE and Southern Italy are increasingly evident,” said Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DMCC. “Both serve as strategic continental gateways supported by advanced logistics and port infrastructure. We see compelling potential for collaboration across sectors such as agri-food, coffee, energy, and precious metals and stones.”
DMCC’s Southern Italy outreach was conducted in partnership with a number of regional and international organizations, including Corbello, Cardo, Gravante & Raimo, Enterprise Europe Network, Forbes Italia, Gruppo Marican, the Naples Chamber of Commerce, the Order of Chartered Accountants of Naples, S.I. Impresa, Sicilia Sprint, and the Department of Economic Activities for the Sicilian Region.
With nearly 26,000 companies operating under its umbrella, DMCC contributes approximately 7 percent of Dubai’s GDP and accounts for 15 percent of its annual foreign direct investment, according to figures released by the organization.
As economic ties between Italy and the UAE continue to expand, DMCC has positioned itself as a central platform for Italian businesses seeking to enter Middle Eastern, African, and Asian markets through Dubai’s commercial ecosystem.
