In a significant move for the digital landscape in the Middle East, the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy has partnered with Canva, a leading global visual communication platform, to establish the company’s regional headquarters in Dubai. This collaboration aims to empower 250,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individual creators over the next five years, aligning with the UAE’s goals for digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

Strategic Agreement for Digital Growth

The partnership was officially announced during the World Government Summit 2026 held in Dubai, marking a pivotal step in advancing the nation’s digital ecosystem. The signing of the agreement involved prominent figures, including Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, along with Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, and Canva’s Co-Founder and COO, Cliff Obrecht.

This agreement underscores Dubai’s commitment to creating a robust digital environment while enhancing its status as a global innovation center. By establishing its regional headquarters in Dubai, Canva aims to expand its operations, providing innovative solutions to bolster SMEs in the digital sector. The pact is a clear indication of Dubai’s attractiveness to leading tech companies, signifying an opportunity for growth and collaboration in the rapidly evolving digital economy.

Empowering SMEs with Innovative Tools

As part of this partnership, Canva will grant access to its digital design and visual communication services to newly established SMEs in Dubai and throughout the UAE. Scheduled for launch later this year, the initiative will offer companies advanced tools that enhance productivity, streamline content creation, and support innovation, all without requiring specialized design skills. This accessibility is crucial for SMEs aiming to strengthen their digital footprint and remain competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Canva boasts a rich global presence, with over 260 million users and an impressive valuation of approximately $42 billion. The platform has revolutionized the way individuals and businesses approach design, facilitating the creation of over 40 billion unique designs worldwide. In the UAE alone, in 2025, users produced more than 54 million unique designs, revealing a strong market demand for intuitive design solutions.

Dubai: A Hub for Technological Innovation

Omar Sultan Al Olama articulated Dubai’s ambitions to create a welcoming environment for digital and technological innovation. He emphasized that Dubai’s infrastructure and business-friendly policies are key to attracting creative industries powered by advanced solutions. The collaboration with Canva is set to bolster the capabilities of SMEs, enhancing their growth and evolution within Dubai’s thriving digital ecosystem.

Cliff Obrecht expressed excitement about Canva’s partnership with Dubai, highlighting the dynamic and creative energy of the region. He noted that establishing a headquarters in Dubai allows Canva to directly engage with local businesses and creators, thereby fostering collaboration and creativity. This partnership not only serves the needs of SMEs but also aligns with Dubai’s vision of being a leading global center for digital innovation.

By working together, the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and Canva are poised to reshape the digital landscape, providing vital resources and support to small businesses in Dubai. As they collaborate to unlock new opportunities, they set the stage for a promising future, empowering entrepreneurs and creators across the region to bring their visions to life.