In the thriving city of Dubai, applications are now open for a premier residency program aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs. This initiative invites innovative minds from the UAE and beyond to establish their startups in one of the world’s most dynamic business environments.

Dubai Founders HQ: A Launchpad for Startups

In collaboration with Antler, a global early-stage venture capital firm, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy have embarked on a multi-year partnership to empower the next generation of startup founders. The Dubai Founders HQ serves as a central hub, providing essential resources for over 600 founders, ultimately fostering the launch of numerous new startups. This strategic alliance is instrumental in the development of Dubai’s vibrant startup ecosystem while aligning with the ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033.

Launched in October 2025, the Dubai Founders HQ provides a vital platform for connecting entrepreneurs with investors, corporate partners, and ecosystem enablers. This flagship initiative aims to nurture high-growth startups, support scale-ups, and contribute to the emergence of globally competitive companies. The vision of Dubai Founders HQ is not only to cultivate startups but also to create a landscape where future unicorns can thrive.

The Antler Residency Program

At the heart of this partnership lies Antler’s renowned Residency Program, hosted at the Dubai Founders HQ. This program is designed specifically for early-stage entrepreneurs, supporting them from the inception of their ideas to securing funding. Founders will have access to a wealth of resources, including entrepreneurial education through Antler’s Academy, which offers rigorous training from a network of investors and mentors. This comprehensive support system addresses the critical gap between talent and the formation of investable companies, providing a clear pathway for founders to transition from concept to market-ready startups.

With the establishment of Antler’s UAE headquarters within the Dubai Founders HQ campus, this collaboration has enhanced investor engagement and streamlined the alignment between venture creation and capital investment. It underscores Dubai’s appeal as a prime location for ambitious entrepreneurs seeking to make their mark in the startup world.

Driving Sustainable Growth in Dubai’s Startup Ecosystem

His Excellency Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), emphasized the infrastructure and long-term support provided by Dubai Founders HQ, praising Antler’s role in executing this vision. The partnership is poised to create real pathways for entrepreneurship, with the ultimate goal of establishing Dubai as a launchpad for the next generation of global startups.

Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, noted that this collaboration merges global expertise with local support, equipping startup founders with the necessary tools to achieve sustainable growth. The synergy between Antler and the Dubai Founders HQ is designed to facilitate strong connections between entrepreneurs and investors, propelling businesses toward success.

As the world’s leading early-stage AI investor, Antler sees Dubai as an ideal launchpad for innovative ventures. Founder Magnus Grimeland highlighted how this partnership is set to convert visionary ideas into actionable plans, fostering a structured environment for the development of digital economy startups.

In line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, this partnership aims to generate a robust network of entrepreneurs, ultimately contributing to the growth of 30 unicorns from Dubai. By leveraging the strengths of both Dubai Founders HQ and Antler, the collaboration is making monumental strides in enhancing the city’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Applications for this groundbreaking residency program are now live, inviting passionate innovators from around the globe to be part of Dubai’s ever-evolving startup ecosystem. To learn more and submit your application, visit the Antler website.