The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers under the Dubai Chambers umbrella, recently highlighted Dubai’s competitive business landscape for digital startups during a panel discussion at Expand North Star 2024. Organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the chamber, this event is taking place at Dubai Harbour from October 13 to 16.
Strengthening the digital economy
In his presentation, Saeed Al Gergawi, vice president of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, emphasized Dubai’s strengths, which enhance its appeal as a global hub for entrepreneurs and a leader in the digital economy. He noted that the emirate is actively fostering the growth of digital companies, reinforcing its reputation as a global digital economy capital. This effort aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to generate an average of AED100 billion annually through digital transformation initiatives.
A strategic hub for global expansion
Al Gergawi also underscored Dubai’s role as a strategic platform for international market expansion, thanks to its extensive logistical connectivity and diverse social fabric. With over 200 nationalities residing in a modern environment equipped with advanced services and world-class infrastructure, Dubai attracts some of the brightest minds and specialized talents in technology.
Nurturing innovation and excellence
Furthermore, Al Gergawi reaffirmed that Dubai’s distinctive business ecosystem nurtures the success of companies and entrepreneurs, promoting a culture of innovation and excellence. The emirate’s advanced infrastructure and supportive regulatory framework for digital sectors are critical factors that position it as a top choice for launching, growing, and expanding innovative digital startups.
Opportunities through the App Olympics
Additionally, Al Gergawi discussed the opportunities presented by the App Olympics, an initiative by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy aimed at innovators of all ages and backgrounds. The competition offers financial incentives and a prize package worth $150,000 to develop the winning mobile apps, along with a six-month mentorship program following the competition. Winners in each category will also receive media support and access to a network of partners and participants.
Supporting Emirati talent development
Al Gergawi noted that the App Olympics is part of the Create Apps in Dubai initiative, launched in March 2023 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence.
Managed by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, this initiative aims to train over 1,000 Emiratis in coding, mobile app development, and business creation models through the Emirati Training Academy. It also seeks to triple the number of app developers in Dubai by 2025 and support 100 new national projects focused on cutting-edge mobile applications.
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