Every founder’s guide to startup programs powering the UAE ecosystem

A decade ago, the UAE’s startup scene was little more than co-working spaces and a handful of free zones. Today, it’s one of the world’s most connected innovation ecosystems — a place where policy, capital, and infrastructure come together to help founders build globally competitive companies.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah now host a network of accelerators, venture funds, and R&D hubs designed to turn ideas into businesses. From seed funding to government pilots, founders arriving in the Emirates step into a system built to help them test, scale, and go international — often with support on visas, licensing, and relocation.

The country’s approach blends government vision with private-sector execution. Startups can collaborate directly with regulators, partner with corporates, and access funding pipelines that bridge the Gulf, Africa, and Asia. For many founders, the UAE has become more than a launchpad — it’s the place where global ambitions start. The following programs show how that ecosystem works in practice.

Hub71 (Abu Dhabi) — The UAE’s flagship innovation platform

Backed by Mubadala and ADQ, Hub71 anchors Abu Dhabi’s innovation strategy with over 200 startups spanning fintech, AI, and climate tech. Its Access Program offers up to USD 500,000 in incentives (cash and in-kind) while providing subsidized housing, visas, and office space. Startups joining its biannual cohorts gain introductions to investors and enterprise clients through the Abu Dhabi Global Market.

Techstars Hub71 (Abu Dhabi) — The accelerator bringing Silicon Valley to the Gulf

A joint venture between Techstars and Hub71, this 3-month program brings global mentorship to Abu Dhabi. Twelve startups per cohort receive USD 120,000 in seed funding and mentorship from a 7,000-strong global network. Each cycle ends with a Demo Day attracting investors from the GCC, Europe, and the U.S.

Flat6Labs (Abu Dhabi) — The region’s leading seed accelerator

Flat6Labs invests USD 100,000–150,000 in early-stage startups through a 16-week accelerator focused on SaaS, healthtech, and digital products. Founders gain access to training, investor networks, and follow-on rounds from regional VCs.

Plug and Play ADGM — Bridging startups and corporates

The Abu Dhabi branch of Plug and Play runs innovation programs connecting startups with large enterprises like Etihad and Aldar. The focus is on open innovation in fintech, mobility, and sustainability, offering pilot opportunities and potential venture partnerships.

startAD (Abu Dhabi) — Where academia meets innovation

Hosted at NYU Abu Dhabi, startAD connects early-stage founders and university spinouts with UAE corporations. It emphasizes pilot validation and market testing rather than equity funding, offering a bridge between academia and industry.

Catalyst (Masdar City) — Accelerating clean-energy ventures

A joint venture by ADNOC and Masdar, Catalyst supports startups tackling climate change, energy transition, and waste management. Founders receive workspace in Masdar City, funding, and access to clean-tech pilot projects.

Dtec (Dubai) — The UAE’s largest startup campus

Run by Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, Dtec hosts over 1,000 startups from 75 countries. The campus combines co-working, licensing, and venture funding via Dtec Ventures (USD 50K–250K per deal).

in5 (Dubai) — Dubai’s creative launchpad

Operated by TECOM Group, in5 runs innovation centers across tech, media, and design. Startups enjoy subsidized licensing and mentorship. Since inception, in5 startups have raised USD 2.45 B.

Dubai Future Accelerators — Co-creating the future with government