In 2025, the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy reported remarkable growth in the digital startup sector, with a staggering 1,690 startups receiving support. This represented a significant increase of 39.7% compared to the previous year, solidifying Dubai’s role as a leading global hub for tech innovation and entrepreneurship.

Growth of the Digital Ecosystem

The surge in digital startups in Dubai was propelled by a diversified focus on various sectors. Notably, companies centered around artificial intelligence accounted for 15% of those supported, while fintech emerged as a key contender at 12%. Additionally, the sectors of mobility technology, software-as-a-service (SaaS), and e-commerce collectively comprised 20% of the startups. The data revealed that 75% of these businesses hailed from international markets, underscoring Dubai’s global appeal.

Launch of Dubai Founders HQ

In October 2025, the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, unveiled Dubai Founders HQ, a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the local startup ecosystem. This innovative hub, created through collaboration between the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Chamber of Digital Economy, merges a physical campus with a dynamic digital environment. This dual approach facilitates collaboration among founders, investors, and corporate entities, fostering an atmosphere ripe for innovation and growth.

Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for AI, emphasized that the chamber is deeply committed to establishing Dubai as a global leader in the digital economy. His vision includes building a robust framework that offers advanced infrastructure, agile regulations, and a pro-innovation culture. The aim is not just to attract digital companies but also to enable them to flourish from Dubai, thereby enhancing the emirate’s competitiveness on the international stage.

Comprehensive Services for Startups

To support the burgeoning startup community, the Chamber’s Business in Dubai platform provides a range of services designed to help businesses establish and grow. Collaborating with trusted partners, the platform aids startups in connecting with potential investors and customers. In 2025, almost half of the supported startups benefited from business setup services, while 31% accessed broader support offerings crucial for their operational success.

Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan recognized the achievements of participants in the Create Apps Championship, an initiative launched to promote app development in Dubai. Over the first two editions, the championship attracted more than 5,800 registrations and saw the successful launch of over 55 smart applications, culminating in plans for a third edition supported by funding packages exceeding Dhs2.5 million.

Global Engagement through Expand North Star

The 10th edition of the Expand North Star event, held in October 2025, saw over 2,000 startups and more than 1,200 investors gathering in Dubai, effectively showcasing the city’s increasing significance in the global digital landscape. The event featured founders of 40 unicorns with a combined valuation of $900 billion, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a beacon for digital entrepreneurship.

Throughout 2025, the Chamber organized 36 focused events and conducted 17 international roadshows across nations, including Australia, Canada, and Germany. These initiatives engaged over 2,500 startups and key stakeholders, fostering international collaboration and investment. The chamber also published insightful reports, including “The Entrepreneur’s AI Playbook,” aimed at educating startups on AI tools that can streamline operations and aid growth.

With continued investment in technology and support for digital entrepreneurs, Dubai is solidifying its reputation as a vibrant global technology hub and a prime destination for innovation and investment.